Michael and Alexa’s wedding in downtown Charleston was, as Magnolia Rouge put it, “A timeless, southern Black-Tie Affair with vintage garden party vibes. Alexa & Michael created a celebration that was simple. sophisticated, and highlighted their love for each other and their families.”

My first time in Charleston was better than I could have ever hoped. Being from Utah, I never thought I’d be shooting a wedding in such a charm filled southern gem of a city. More than that, I never really knew just how close I could feel to the couples I got to photograph.

Being a photographer is kind of a special thing. I get to witness and value people in their most authentic and vulnerable states. Often with the people they care the most about. For just a couple of hours, they open up and I feel like I’m a part of it all along side with them.

Photographing Alexa and Michaels incredible day felt no different.

From Alexa, “My most memorable moment was watching my sweet husband’s first dance with his mother to Josh Groban’s “You Raise Me Up!” (her favourite song!) while I stood arm-in-arm with my father watching each second of their dance with pure contentment. As we looked on, Michael held his mom a little closer and she began to sob tears of joy. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room and I was no exception to that.

In that moment, my dad kissed me on my forehead, looked me in the eye, and said “ You married a good man”. I couldn’t agree more.

I heard a saying once, that if you want know how your husband will treat you, look at how he treats his mother and his family. His love for his mother glowed throughout that dance and during so many other moments throughout our special night, but that moment in particular brought the sweetest tears to my eyes. I was reminded that I am truly blessed beyond measure to have Michael as my forever and always.“

Unsurprisingly, this too was my favorite moment of the night. And often is. Not only did I recognize that type of love reflected in actions of my own husband, but being able to imagine years down the road, doing that same dance with my son someday brought me to tears. Being a part of Michael and Alexa’s big day was something I’ll never forget!

My couples become lifelong friends. Just last summer, I was fortunate enough to spend two amazing weeks with Alexa and Michael exploring Italy. You can see my travels here. I don’t know where or who I would be without photography. Allowing me to step back and appreciate people and things all around me. I am continually thankful for the people I get to meet in this beautiful blessing I get to call my job.