A few weeks ago, I drove up to the White Barn to scout out the area for potential photo ops for Rachel and Brian's wedding - it was my first time visiting since my wedding day at the very same venue on August 14, 2015. The memories instantly began flooding back - the joy of marrying my best friend, the excitement of having all of my friends and family together in one place, the adventure of marriage waiting right around the corner. I really couldn't have planned it any more perfectly myself - my heart needed those reminders heading into this wedding season. Much like how brides can get swept up in the details of their day, wedding photographers can get swept up in a sea of focusing on the pretty details and Instagram-worthy photos instead of focusing on what's really important - the couple, the marriage, and the precious job we have of coming alongside them on the first day of the rest of their lives together. That is what it's really all about (but yes, of course I still love the pretty details and beautiful photo ops!)

Rachel and Brian's day was the perfect March day. The warm weather, soft light, and no rain (always a plus in Pittsburgh) made for a beautiful day. There were so many personal details that made their day personal to their own journey - I just have to share a couple of my favorites:

During the ceremony, Pastor Scott read heartfelt notes that Rachel and Brian had written to each of their parents. I had never seen (or heard) this done before at a wedding ceremony, and I thought it was a beautiful way to bring the event full circle. Not to mention, there wasn't a dry eye in the audience.

During the reception, Rachel and her dad danced to "Cinderella" by Steven Curtis Chapman - well, they didn't just dance to it, but acted out the story line (give it a listen, you'll see what I mean!). The song ended with dad waving, walking off the dance floor, and Rachel hugging her new husband (which led to some serious tears behind my camera, I'm not ashamed to say it!).

All in all, Rachel and Brian's day was beautiful, relaxed, and full of so much love. I was so honored to be a part of it! Congratulations again to Rachel and Brian!