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 : )

Heritage Park Wedding: Ann + Justin

As the sun glinted through her sister’s kitchen window, and her hair and makeup was being perfected, Ann noted how quickly the day was already going by. “People warned me it would fly by, but no one ever told me how to slow it down!” she laughed. Then she smiled and took a deep breath as she tried to relish every moment of the day she would marry her best friend.

The gravel crunched beneath him as Justin shifted his feet and looked down, a huge smile breaking through his face. “I can’t not smile today, it’s the happiest day of my life!” he complained lightly, after trying unsuccessfully to be serious for a moment. And it was true. Justin couldn’t have stopped smiling if he wanted to. Anytime he looked at Ann, the joy and pride he felt welled up and overflowed like freshly popped bottle of champagne.

Then, as they said their vows amidst their family and loved ones, everyone smiled. It was impossible not to. Because when two people are so right for each other, you can’t help but smile at such a blissful occasion. And truly, Ann and Justin are nothing short of meant to be.

Ann and Justin, thank you very much for giving me to honor of documenting your love! Your wedding was absolutely wonderful, and I so appreciate how kind you and your families were!! I hope that every day married is even better than the day before, and I wish you guys a lifetime of happiness :) XO

Ann’s amazing dress was handmade by the incredible Penelope Perkins! It was seriously breathtaking.

Ann Elizabeth did a wonderful job on the invitations!

The beautiful bride…

The couple decided to do a First Look, which of course I was thrilled about… Can’t say enough how much I love First Looks!

Justin seemed quite enthralled with his soon to be wife :)

After their First Look we walked around Heritage Park for more portraits.

Oh you guys… such an elegant couple!

Ann, you looked simply divine!! Justin is a lucky man :)

Although you were looking quite handsome yourself, Justin!

I love how they make each other laugh :)

After pictures, it was time to get hitched!!

Married, and quite ecstatic about it if you ask me ;)

Totally loved the floral arrangements, done by Cindy Speters of Element Design and Decor!

Neither Ann or Justin really like cake, so instead of going the traditional route, they chose to have a donut bar with pastries from Banbury Cross. Ummm, GENIUS!!!

Some of you might recognize this lovely lady… I had the privilege of shooting Shelly’s wedding last year, and it was SO fun to see her as Ann’s Matron of Honor :)