I’m going to back this blog post back up to when I first learned Dave was engaged. Nah, let’s back it up even further. I’ve known Dave for years through church & close friends – basically a very cool community of people. He is one of the friendliest, most genuine good hearted guys you will ever meet. I often wondered “who would be a great fit for Dave?”

I had that question answered when I noticed a mutual friend congratulate Dave on his engagement on facebook. I made a comment about how that woman was going to have a very blessed & happy marriage with a man who will love her so well….and that is where I met Dana (as we took over Eric’s facebook post and started chatting.) She was sweet, funny, and a perfect fit for Dave. Being asked to join in their celebration made me very happy. Very happy. The plans were amazing….a back yard with light-wrapped trees, a family home and a barn. Dana and I gushed about all the fabulous details that were going to make this pinterest-worthy wedding one for the books.

But then, things changed…..like most brides, the details became overwhelming and started to take over what was really important – the marriage, and the opportunity to celebrate with their closest friends & family.

Burlap was put on the shelf.

Twinkle lights were saved for Christmas.

Handmade chandeliers became another pin on a board, instead of a project in the kitchen.

They got it. They figured it out. What was most important for their wedding day was right in front of them the whole time. They boiled it down to the basics, and cut out what wasn’t necessary.

And it was beautiful.

The flowers were gorgeous (so were the shoes!). The food, incredible. The music, personal. The location, meaningful. The celebration with friends…memorable.

For every “missing” detail photographers LOVE there was a look…an interaction…a relationship….and a family.

The wedding and the reception were perfect. I wouldn’t have changed a thing (though I wouldn’t have minded dumping some of the leftover burlap I have on her!). It was Dana & Dave…and it was beautiful.

Dana & Dave, thank you for reinforcing that what is most precious to photograph is the relationship between two people in love. It’s not the outfits, or the decorations, or the big production. It’s the love. Simple, beautiful, and amazing.