Swoon. I have been sitting here for days trying to figure out the proper words and right images to portray just how honored I felt to be part of such a special wedding. I left a pang in my heart as I drove away from their beautiful farm and the wonderful people (and pets!) that made us feel like part of the family. The wedding took place at their farm in northern North Carolina with the ceremony under their beloved dogwood tree in the middle of the forest. The wedding weekend was a collaboration of SO many hearts and hands. Friends came from not only all over the country, but the world to witness and celebrate in their uniting as husband and wife. Clay and Mara have been together for a long time, and have endured a lot as they both served in the military and have deployed numerous times. Towards the end of the wedding, Clay gave a momentous speech that left everyone in tears. It is in those moments that I felt my breathe literally be taken away and tears brimming my eyes. It was a beautifully emotional day and you couldn’t have asked for a better celebration. I have tried choosing images for this blog post on three separate occasions, so instead of trying to narrow them down, you’re going to get two blog posts! (YaY!) Mara & Clay, thank you for having me capture your perfect love & document all the big and little moments of your wedding weekend. I felt such a peace being at your farm and in your company. I am SO excited for your new adventures together and there will never be the right words to describe the love and relationship you share together. A special thank you to Allison for traveling with me and helping me capture their wedding weekend. So to everyone reading, enjoy the glimpse at such a special event!
Instead of cake, they had stacked cheese wheels (umm amazing!)
loved this sweet moment when mara felt a rush of emotion that left her in happy tears
Their beautiful puppy was the ring bearer!
When Clay & Mara mentioned there would be fireworks at the wedding, I didn’t realize how EPIC they would be. Watch the video!
Sneak peek at part 2, the portraits!
Monica Reid - So lovely I LOVE the emotion you captured when her mom is getting ready to hug her.
amanda - Such a beautiful story. Love!!!
Allison Kuhn - Wow! These photos capture the true joy, happiness and love surrounding this couple! What a beautiful story they share, and you show it so perfectly. Great photos, great wedding, great couple!
Eva - It was an extraordinary event captured perfectly. Well crafted photography!