When I was little, I used to pretend I was a horse. Or a wolf. Sometimes a tiger. Whatever suited my fancy. I was one of thooose girls. I didn't really play with dolls or put on lipstick and wear my mom's heels. Instead, I created elaborate stories in my head and played them out for hours, sometimes days, until the story was complete.

As I got older, I thought for a time that I wanted to be a writer. Instead of acting out the stories in my imagination, I tried to put them on paper. I would sit down and start these grand novels, only to begin another one after a few chapters in the first. I had every intention of finishing them. I just... never did. Apparently writing isn't my strong suit.

Then I found a camera. Jackpot. I found a way to stop time. To tell real stories. The kind of stories that should be remembered. Need to be remembered. Stories full of life and love that beg to be preserved and shared.

So I guess you could call me a story teller. A really, really ridiculously blessed and happily married story teller who can't cook but laughs a lot and has three dogs. I love my life.

And I'd love to tell your story : )

Backyard Wedding: Jessica + Gavin

Jessica has what I like to call a million dollar smile, the kind of smile that lights up a room and can brighten anyone’s day. In fact, it’s a smile that makes it impossible not to love her, which is exactly what happened to Gavin.

On this particular day though, there was something different about her smile. If possible, it was even brighter than normal. I’d dare say it rivaled the sun. Which was quite bright that day, just to let you know. She smiled as she greeted all of her bridesmaids. She smiled while she put her dress on. She smiled during pictures, smiled while getting hugs, smiled while dancing… But mostly, she smiled at Gavin. The man who had just promised to shelter and protect her, to care for her, laugh and cry with her, and devote himself to her for the rest of their lives. Mostly, she smiled at the man who loved that smile of hers more than anything else in the entire world.

Jess and Gav, what to even say… Your wedding was everything a wedding should be! And not because of all the gorgeous details, but because it was a complete day of nothing but love and joy, and a celebration of two best friends starting their lives together. It was so much fun, and SUCH an honor to be a part of!! May your lives together be filled with an even greater joy than the one you felt on your wedding day :) Much love and appreciation!

They had their wedding in the backyard of some family friends, and it was the perfect setting for them!

Putting on the final touches before getting dressed! And yes, smiling :)

Jess and Gav agreed to do a First Look. And pardon me for being a broken record, but you all know how I feel about First Looks… LOVE IT!

You guys are simply adorable. The end.

So beautiful together :)

S-T-U-N-N-I-N-G

Love this!

I had to post a few of their rockin’ bridal party. All of their guys and gals were pretty awesome!

After bridal party pictures, it was time to get married!

Quick little story for this picture. Gavin was so excited to see Jess that he gave her a little kiss before he realized he wasn’t supposed to do that until the end! It was SO funny and too adorable!

It’s official!!!!

There were so.many. lovely details at the reception!!

Pretty girls, pretty flowers, pretty dresses…

I snuck them away for just a few more photos in the setting sun, and I must say, everything about these pictures make me happy… Jess is SO beautiful and happy!