These two. I didn’t get a chance to meet Clay and Regina in person until their wedding day, but when Regina saw me she gave me the most wonderful enveloping hug. These two draw people in with their laughter and their care. Weddings usually bring out the best in people. Toasts are always lovely and hilarious and affections run high, but it is clear that Clay and Regina live with this kind of joy, connection and community every day, not just on special occasions. They are lucky in love, with each other and their friends. Their day overflowed with the beauty and warmth that is clearly a part of them through and through.

Jamie is a wonderful family photographer so I was honored when she asked me to capture some photos of her beautiful family. At the time of this session my little boy was just starting to roll over. Watching Jamie’s boys in all their wild and free play made me laugh and so much look forward to what is to come. Sibling and family love is really quite something to watch.

I have known Chelsea my whole life so this wedding was very special for me. Chelsea has three beautiful boys, and as I watched them get ready with Brock, as he helped them put on the leather belts and suspenders that he handmade for them, I could tell this was already an amazing family. I have been visiting her childhood California home for so many years, but it’s never looked so beautiful as it did this day. Every detail was meaningful, from the Wandering Goat coffee from their favorite Eugene coffee shop, to the backdrop that friends lovingly made for them. Chelsea’s sons and father walked her down the aisle to meet Brock, and they exchanged rings that Brock made for them. Chelsea’s grandfather played the grand piano in the living room for their first dance, as guests typed out well wishes on an old typewriter. We all say weddings are magical, but this one really was, a warm California night on a porch under twinkly lights and so many happy tears for these dear friends. One of my favorite photos I’ve ever taken is the one of Chelsea’s tattoo during her ceremony, it says ‘Everything’ and that is what this day was, it was everything.

It was not very long ago that I was shooting Kelsey and Kagan’s wedding, and now perfect little Grady is here. Shortly before he arrived we met at the Inn At Perry Cabin and beautiful Kelsey pretty much defined ‘mama glow’. I love this family and I’m so happy that I can be part of their continuing story.