I pulled onto the dirt road and wound around a neighboring orchard before I came into view of Diamond V Farm with its rolling pastures and mountain views. The barn sat atop a little hill, the last stop on the road. It was the perfect setting for Stephanie and Will’s July wedding.

I always buzz with anticipation before shooting a wedding. I take the responsibility of capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments very seriously. But this afternoon, I was humming along with even more excitement because Stephanie and Will are dear friends of mine. I felt so honored that they had chosen me to photograph their special day.

Of course, the day went perfectly. The heavens repeatedly threatened to storm on us, but it held off and instead made for a wonderfully dramatic sky. Stephanie’s bridal look was timeless with her dainty hair waves and classic, simple dress. The way she and Will looked at each other during the ceremony just melted me heart. I felt all of their joy as they celebrated on their way up the aisle together after the vows were sealed. After that, the reception was just an excellent party complete with cocktail hour trivia, touching toasts, delicious food (including some indulgent Southern sides), and a positively *lit* dance floor. You should have seen the guests when “Don’t Stop Believin’” came on. Seriously…how does that song never get old?!

My favorite moments of the day included:

Stephanie’s first look with her father and his sweet expression
Will and the guys trying to figure out their own boutonnieres
Will’s face when he saw Stephanie coming down the aisle - first awe, then pure joy :’)
Stephanie workin’ it at the reception with some help from the floor fan
Stealing Will and Stephanie away from the reception for some quiet sunset photos
The perfect timing of the sparkler exit, which concluded just before a huge thunderstorm

Congratulation Stephanie and Will. Here is to a lifetime of love!