Alicia + Justin [Old Summer House, Lancaster PA Wedding]

Alicia and Justin both have such sweet spirits, and one thing that stood out the most to me was how much FUN their guests had at the wedding and reception. This adorable couple has attended the same church ever since they were babies, so many of the guests have known these two their whole lives…which is a neat dynamic at a wedding. While I interacted with the bridesmaids (who were an incredibly fun, supportive bunch!!), I learned the girls have all known each other for YEARS which is extra special. I can never put into words how meaningful it is to watch each couple enjoy their “first look”—when they see each other for the first time….just the two of them….in a peaceful atmosphere. As you can see below, Alicia and Justin’s faces lit up, and their joy was contagious.

The beautiful, rustic reception was held at The Old Summer House. The barn is a perfect and spacious venue for such an occasion. Lush, pink peonies were all around, and I loved the chandelier above the bride + groom’s table.  Enjoy the highlights from Justin + Alicia tying the knot.

This bridal party was not lacking in the personality department (it was soooo hot, but they did an awesome job!)  Leave it to the groomsmen to find a frog hoppin' around The bride and groom wanted a corporate worship time, to thank God for bringing them together A few sunset portraits on the beautiful property of The Old Summer House 

An adoption story: Gehman family

We must know that we have been created for greater things,

Not just to be a number in the world….

We have been created in order to love and to be loved.

-Mother Theresa

When I hear the word, “adoption,” my heart literally beats faster. I have such admiration for families who adopt, because I recognize it’s not an easy road, but it’s worth it. I don’t know what my own future holds, but I hope and pray I can adopt one day.

I’m exuberant about introducing you to Monica and Greg and their three kiddos. I’ve been staring at my laptop screen for the last few moments, unsure of how to describe this incredible photo session. I fear my words won’t do justice in describing this sacrificial, enthusiastic family.

Two months ago, they went to Uganda and adopted Josiah who is almost two years old…wait until you see how adorable he is!  He is incredibly resilient and is adjusting so quickly to America; he already adores his new family, and I blinked back tears as I watched them interact. When I looked into Josiah’s eyes, I was reminded of the street boys I worked with during my time living in Uganda. By grace, Josiah has been rescued from that difficult life that could have been.

Although Josiah has faced difficulties in his life, God took care of him each step of the way. In Uganda, he was placed in a children's home that Bethany Christian Services partners with. Through that adoption agency, Josiah was placed with Greg & Monica and his new sisters, Grace and Olivia. The girls are such cuties, and we were buddies instantly—as they led me around their grandparents’ BREATHTAKING 30 acre property.  Ring around the Rosie in the woods!  Such a beautiful family. And Monica, you're a great fashion co-ordinator ;)  Grace loved the opportunity to spin around and be girly! As a family, they spend a lot of time around homemade campfires. So what better thing to incorporate into our session! The kids were inhaling gooey, warm marshmallows with their sticky fingers. A mouth full of yummyness! We joked that their four-wheeler is their "American version of a Boda-Boda" (the motorcycles in Uganda which are a public form of transportation.) Then we moved to the garden and shed area. Of course we had to incorporate their Uganda jerseys and the girls' darling ethnic dresses. Ahhh, it reminded me of my second home :)

If you have adopted or are planning to adopt, I’d love to hear your story!

Orphans are easier to ignore until you see their faces….hear their voices….

Until you hold them in your arms. Once you’re vulnerable enough to do that,

then everything changes.

–David Platt

Steve + Priscilla [Charleston, SC]

There’s something really enjoyable about photographing a couple that has been married a few years. If they’re like these two, they’re the best of friends and they just get each other. While trekking down the cobblestone streets of Charleston with Steve + Priscilla, I tried to contain my jealousy (they live there. So lucky!) I met this couple in April when I helped photograph Priscilla’s brother’s wedding near Boston. A few weeks later, when Priscilla saw I was coming to Charleston, she jumped at the chance to capture this time of their life.

It was a perfect afternoon strolling Charleston with this delightful couple; I kept thinking, “Someone pinch me. I love my job tremendously!]

Isn't Calhoun Mansion just stunning? Scenes in The Notebook were filmed inside. The 17-year-old in me is excited about that!  Just look at those gardens! Everywhere you walk in Charleston, the scents of flowers and honeysuckle tickles your nose.  These two! They are the cutest.  On to the spacious and lovely Battery Park! I can't get enough of those live oak trees.... We ended near the water, still at the Battery