Weddings have been different with Covid-19, and I realize that's not breaking news. I've had quite a few couples opt for smaller ceremonies with big parties to come later in the year. But do you want to know what HAS surprised me? I really like the small ceremonies. When you strip away the production of the big party, there is something warm, genuine, and calm about what is left: A new marriage being celebrated by those who love them best. 

Erin and Chris already had a special place in my heart. Chris and I were in the Aggie Corps together. They are adventurous, and we share a love for hiking. We got to share the funnest engagement session on a trail (with hiking backpacks) in Austin. They are both in law enforcement, and have my gratitude for the work that they do. All of this adds up to a longing I had for their day to be special, because they are special. I'm happy to report it was just that.

Erin and Chris chose to have their wedding in their backyard. If I had shown you their portraits first, you wouldn't have guessed that for the location. Their backyard happens to come with a beautiful garden that very easily could be part of a wedding venue. Their pup Apollo roamed freely throughout the ceremony, un-bothered by the event taking place. Their good friend and Chris' coworker Kat officiated with a slam dunk of a speech (a great cross between a marriage sermon and a personal toast). 

As a wedding photographer, I know the moments to look for on a wedding day. Little moments like the dress being buttoned, Dad seeing the bride for the first time, a nervous groom trying to prep (Chris is watching a bowtie video on youtube in the image below!). These moments all happened, no matter the venue. The love and the celebration was as present as any wedding, and I was so pleased to be a part of it. 

All this said, I'm also very excited for the big party next year. How many couples get a huge 1 year anniversary party??