Kind Words + Something Navy

When Malia first emailed me to ask about an upcoming feature, I was caught completely off guard. Malia, along with her business partner Kaelyn, are the editors of the military inspired wedding blog, Something Navy. Being completely honest, I could have really used this blog a few years ago when Colton and I were planning our own wedding. At the time I hadn’t the slightest idea what a sword arch was, let alone at what point before, during, or after the ceremony it came into play. So when Malia went on to ask if they could feature not one but two of my wonderful clients on their blog I was absolutely floored. I was flattered and humbled and speechless, all at the same time. Which leads me to my next point. I know every small business owner says it – well, I hope every owner says it, but I really, truly feel blessed to get to work with the people I work with. I know I’m fortunate in that I get to spend what is quite possibly the happiest day in a couple’s life with the couple. But beyond that, what really makes my job a delight is working with these couples for the months and weeks leading up to their day. I love getting to know a bride + groom, becoming their friend, and then being there to watch as they vow their lives to one another. It’s a truly beautiful process and one I do not take lightly.

When Malia wrote back to let me know the first feature had been published, I immediately checked the blog – much like I do with every publication. What I wasn’t prepared for was the write up that the bride had written about her wedding day and her photographer. I sat in my office and read the sweet, kind words that Jill had written and without any warning I started to cry. Happy, grateful, humble tears.

Do you remember Joe + Jill and their unforgettable proposal story? This time it was their wedding that was featured! To see their big day and kind words on Something Navy CLICK HERE

And today I was thrilled to see Steve + Kristi's Washington D.C. engagement session featured on the blog as well. CLICK HERE to see their sweet, sweet love story.

To my incredible past, present, and future brides and grooms, thank you for being the beautiful people you are - inside and out. I cannot adequately express my gratitude for all the sweet + lovely goodness that you are. You make my day, my week, my month, my year, and my life a much, much brighter place.

xoxo, Michelle

The Classics Vol. IV

These are the photos that are framed. The ones that parents, grandparents and godparents alike beg for. They’re also the ones that, some day, the couple’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will see at fifty-year anniversary celebrations. They’re both timeless and traditional and for these reasons alone they will always be a classic.

Happy Thursday, Michelle

Sammy & Griffin

She seemed nervous. Or maybe it was quiet, which for the bright and bubbly Sammy couldn’t be further from the norm. But today was different. Today was the day that she would finally call Griffin - handsome, thoughtful, kind Griffin, her husband. As the day moved forward and the hour when she could finally see her beau drew near, Sammy remained calm and poised, the essence of beauty and class. In front of their family and friends Sammy and Griffin promised to love and cherish and make each other laugh every day of their married life. And as they kissed to forever the church erupted with cheers and applause of delight. It's couples like Sammy and Griffin that can't help but make you smile...

Sammy, you are breathtaking.

The first time Sammy and Griffin saw one another was emotional and genuine and real. And beautiful.

After a few quick portraits it was time for the ceremony. And that face? That's the way Griffin looks at Sammy all the time.

After the ceremony Sammy and Griffin arranged to have the most lovely, red 1934 getaway car take them from the church. With Something Special hand painted on the back, I can't think of a more fitting ride for these two.

A touching father-daughter dance...

...And the party begins!

We slipped away from the dance floor to catch a few sunset pictures and I'm so glad we did. They might just be my favorite shots from the day.

Sammy & Griffin, I know I’m not alone when I say that being at your wedding felt like being part of a fairy tale. You’re the type of couple the makes the world a better place, a happier place, because you’re together. Congrats on such a beautiful start of your life and thank you for letting me share in your day. I feel so honored to have been there to capture it.

With love, Michelle

To view more from Sammy & Griffin's Central Oregon wedding, CLICK HERE.