As a wedding photographer, I pay meticulous attention to every detail. I am capturing images of the center pieces, flowers, and everything that a bride and groom put so much effort into creating. The details of a wedding are a direct reflection of the couple, and everything they love. There is so much importance in capturing the details of the first day of the rest of a couples lives.

I am drawn to weddings for one reason, and that reason is I love feeling. I love being a part of something beautiful, and capturing meaningful moments that people are going to look back on for years to come. The moment when a bride steps into her dress and looks in the mirror, realizing that the day she’s been waiting for is finally here. I can feel the anticipation as she touches up her lipstick before walking down the isle. A groom waiting patiently staring at the doors, that will soon reveal the love of his life. My favorite feeling though, is in watching the faces of parents as their babies say “I do”.

Maybe it comes with having children myself, but the emotion is completely overwhelming. I imagine they look up at their beautiful daughter and picture a little girl playing dress up and walking around in her mothers’ shoes that are 5 sizes too big. How is it that their little boy is going to be a husband, when it feels like just yesterday he was curled up on your lap because that’s the only way he would fall asleep. How is it so soon that your baby is now starting a family of their own, and creating a new life for themselves.

Maybe its the realization that everything you have ever wanted for them, is coming true. One of my favorite quotes is “You don’t raise children, you raise adults.” As a parent you try your hardest to create the best human beings possible. You teach them to love, and to respect. You teach them to dream, and work hard to achieve those dreams. You teach them to be the best version of themselves. You also pray that someday, they will fine that one person who will dream with them. The person that shares that love, and builds them up. A person who will always be there to support them, in a way that parents can’t.

How special to watch your child step into a commitment, in saying that I have found my person. That little girl grew up and found someone who will be by her side through thick and thin. That little boy found love and someone who will always be his best friend.The day that seemed lifetimes away when you hold your newborn baby in your arms, is here, and it came much faster than you thought it would. My favorite part of weddings is watching Mom and Dad come to the realization that they did it. They raised a happy, strong, loving adult who has found their other half in life. So keep the happy tears coming Mom and Dad, and give yourselves a pat on the back. Job well done.