I’m struggling on a starting point for this post. There are people that come into your life and there is an instant click. You feel like you’ve known them forever. Then there are people who you’ve literally known most of your life and you’re able to maintain that connection over many many years. Tiffany is the latter for me. Her mom owned a hair salon right up the road from my childhood home and I would spend as many weekends as I could hanging out with her. She lived in a different county so we didn’t go to school together, but between haircuts and weekend playdates, she was just as much a part of my childhood as anyone else. Years away at college and the start of adulthood, we kept in touch via social media but when I made the move home I was happy to walk back into that hair salon to old friends.
When it was time to start planning her wedding, I was honored that she wanted me to be her photographer. Her mom even included me in the seating chart at her table. I felt like I was at a family member’s wedding. I was crying during those touching moments… I kept a close eye on her mom, knowing how close they are and how big this day was for her, too. I strive, during every wedding I photograph, to be in tune to family members so I can catch special moments not everyone is looking at or looking for… My long history and connection with this family made that part easy this time.
I had only met Billy once before their wedding and that was during their engagement session. My impression of him was that he was quiet, Tiffany’s opposite, but the kind that pulls her closer rather than push her away. One thing I knew for sure; he LOVES this woman. It was reiterated during their first look, probably the most precious one I’ve photographed. It’s simple. He adores her. His eyes NEVER left her. I’ve never seen a man spend the entire reception on the dance floor with his new wife. They danced until literally everyone else had left. His love for her is like an exhale after a long held breath. Complete, relaxed, life-giving.
I couldn’t be more happy for the both of them.
Tiffany, you know I love you girl! Your day could not have been more perfect (well, maybe if it hadn’t been SO cold 😉 ) I am so happy my journey with you guys doesn’t end here. That I can just hop in the car and drive 15 min to see you. That I’ll get to know and snuggle all the babies you’ll have. I love that I was your photographer, but I love more that I’m your friend <3 XOXO

Venue/Day of Coordination/Catering: Hollyfield Manor
Hair: Lively Creations – Mary Bush
Makeup: Lively Creations – Tiffany Mitchell
Videography: Alex Wheeler
Florals: King William Florist
Cake: Lark Baking Co.