HOW IT STARTED
Maddy found me through Instagram and was looking for a last-minute photographer for her wedding! I immediately responded and I found out that she was getting married at the most gorgeous venue up in Bellingham: Carson Creek Estates. I'm based out of Anacortes, so this was music to my ears. I knew that Carson Creek Estates was a popular and coveted venue, so I was incredibly excited to have the opportunity to work there.
Pro tip: if you find me on Instagram and want to reach out - that's amazing and I can't wait to hear from you! The best way to make sure that I see your message and respond, is to fill out my Contact form right here on my website. There is one in the menu or at the bottom of this blog post!
complimentary engagement session
Madison and Thomas took advantage of the complimentary engagement session that came with their photo package. Madison suggested doing it at Whatcom Falls in Bellingham and I had just gotten to do my first session there earlier in the year, so I felt excited and prepared for this next one! I knew that we had to get shots of the iconic waterfall, along with the viewing bridge across the water. Thankfully, they followed my advice from the styling guide I sent and wore light colors so that they are able to stand out well among the greens and shadows of the trees!
It was great getting to spend time with them one-on-one before their wedding day. Engagement sessions are a fun and stress-free environment where we can get to know each other so that when I arrive to photograph their wedding, I already feel like a friend rather than a vendor. My relationship with clients is important because, as the photographer, I'm with you during all of the big moments of your special day. I want you to feel comfortable with me and trust that I can do what I've promised.
My impression of Maddy and Thomas during their engagement session was that they were both just so effortlessly cool and refreshingly calm together. I could tell immediately that they were perfect for each other, and I knew that their wedding day would be the same.
wedding day
It all started when I walked into the venue looking for the bridal suite, when I saw Maddy and Thomas on the upstairs balcony - together! Now usually that is not a sight that I see on the morning of a wedding day. After hugging and exchanging excited "hi's and hello's", they led me into the massive groom's suite where the entire wedding party was getting ready! I was so impressed and excited because I knew that this group was going to be fabulous to work with. Once Maddy was ready, we got ready for her first look with Thomas. Usually this is a huge deal because the bride and groom haven't gotten to see each other all morning, they both are nervous and overflowing with nerves, but since Maddy and Thomas had gotten to spend the morning together, it was all excitement. They read their vows privately - talked about their journey to this day and how excited they were to finally be husband and wife.
No drawn-out speeches about the meaning of love, no tears, these two just wanted to hear those words: "I now pronounce you husband and wife". And they did! And the crowd cheered while they walked back down the aisle where their friends eventually met them and celebrated. The reception was truly so comforting. Although the DJ was playing great tunes, everyone just wanted to talk with each other. As I was walking around, taking photos of everyone chatting, people would pull me into their conversations, and I would feel like we were all best friends in no time! The speeches that the best man and maid of honor made truly reflected that feeling. Maddy and Thomas are so intentional with who they surround themselves with, that their day couldn't have felt any other way.
People played long games, kicked around a soccer ball (Maddy and Thomas's favorite past time) and drank Mojitos as the sun set. I felt sad leaving because I was walking away from a group of such kind, genuine, and fun-loving people. And that's always a great reminder that I love when I get to do as my job :)
THE TALENTED VENDORS
Photographer: LNW PNW Photos
Venue: Carson Creek Estate
DJ: DJ Clint Westwood
Desserts: Pure Bliss
Dress: Lulus
Food + Drinks: Crave Catering
f you're looking for a wedding photographer, please reach out at my Contact page here on my website or fill out the inquiry form at the bottom of this blog!
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