Amanda and Matt were married at Early Mountain Vineyards on a hot, gorgeous day in August. Amanda loved sunflowers, so they were a big part of the day. The bouquets and centerpieces were filled with sunflowers; the wedding arbor was dripping with them; and the bride wore a single sunflower in her hair. I also noticed she had one cute sunflower painted on one of her manicured nails, and I may have even spotted a small sunflower tattoo at one point! When I realized that Early Mountain had their very own sunflower garden, I knew we had to take a walk through it after the ceremony during our portrait session. The light was perfect at that moment, just before sunset, with light streaming through the flowers. Matt and Amanda were so happy together, having just said their vows.

One of the things I love most about being a wedding photographer is that I get to immerse myself in someone else's world for a day. I get to exist among someone else's family and friends, I get to hear their inside jokes, see them dance with their friends to their favorite songs, and I often witness some very private and touching moments. It is such a privilege. Listening to the heartfelt speeches, as well as seeing the way Amanda and Matt interacted with their family, friends and each other, I got the picture that these are two very exceptional people - and I left that night feeling inspired by them.

A favorite moment: While Amanda was having her makeup done in the cottage with her bridesmaids and family, Matt had a young nephew deliver to her a wrapped box full of letters he had written to his bride- not just one, but at least five letters. Each was sealed in an envelope, marked different things like "Open if you're feeling nervous". "Open if you think I'm silly". I was seriously impressed!! These two have really found something special.