Sometimes the connections I can make with people while doing my job make it awfully difficult to see it as work. When Chase and Aaron contacted me about shooting their engagement (remember their dreamy picnic/camping-inspired shoot?) and wedding photos, we got together to have a client meeting at the café in which they met, and hours later, were still laughing our rears off. When my clients turn out to love ridiculousness as much as me, we’re on the fast train to swoonsville, and it’s no longer a traditional business relationship. These two inspiring hunks are now wonderful friends I feel fortunate to have, and are a prime example of why I so deeply love what I do.

Both übertalented, working in creative realms, and both can-do, adventurous craftsmen—the beautiful pieces they designed and built for their day of love were incredible. The partnered investment of creative energy and time and focus and all those powerful things? Well, I’m going to say it illustrates well just how rock-solid this marriage is. They joined together to create amazing things, and had a ridiculously fun time doing so. Spectacular standout features of this lovely day? WHERE DO I BEGIN?! Their stunning wooden lasercut invitations? The handknit ties, gorgeous lace dress (paired with Tom’s Shoes!)? The delicious graphic signs on reclaimed fences and epic ceremony entrance and backdrop reclaimed/rebuilt wooden structures? The beautiful nut trees everywhere (yes, you see right below, they CLIMBED a tree for us in their wedding finery)? The vintage VW? The rainbow wool ‘my beloved’ signage and collected vintage vases? Nope—the real standouts were a community of people full of as much jubilance and love for these two as they have for each other, and Chase and Aaron’s pure, glowing, open hearts. I teared up repeatedly through this day—from truly meaningful vows to heartfelt speeches. These two are full of magic, wonder, and adventure, and inspire it in others. They were giddy with excitement about this day for months, and instead of stress, day of, they chose joy. Now that’s what I call a wedding.