Happy Anniversary, Kristel and James!

I was one year ago today that I shot my very first wedding. Since I had no website or blog at the time, I thought it would be fun to share some reflections on that day, as it meant so much to me.

Becoming a wedding photographer has been a dream of mine for many, many years now. I never actually thought I'd do it. In college I made one of those "100 things to do before I die" lists, and shooting a wedding was #2, just below getting married myself. Last summer Kristel was working in my office, and the office threw her a shower. I took a few pictures for her, and afterwards she asked me if I'd like to shoot her wedding too. I told her no way, I had no clue what I was doing, and she'd be nuts to hire me. But she insisted, and I gave in.

Its crazy to me to look back at these photos. I remember editing them with tears literally streaming down my face, in pure shock that I had not only taken someone's wedding photos, but taken these particular shots. I was humbled, and proud at the same time, and  my confidence grew tremendously. Its funny, because while I still really love these shots, I can see just how far I've come in the past year. I've learned so much, and its crazy to think about how much more I'll learn in the next year to come as well.

I'm so happy to share some of my favorites from this very special day with you, and to celebrate Kristel and James as they celebrate their first anniversary. Enjoy!

The wedding took place in Bar Harbor, one of my favorite places in the world. I had fun getting pictures of Kristel as she got ready, and I loved her accessories and gorgeous dress!

Kristel loves the camera, and was such a blast to shoot! I loved her goofy side, and she had no problem showing it off. I love this picture of her ready to head to the ceremony!

The couple were married on top of Cadillac Mountain at sunset (amazing, right??). James is in the army and looked so handsome in his Greens. I love this picture of him going over his vows just one more time before the ceremony began.

The wedding was very small, just very close family attended. I loved how intimate it was as they all circled Kristel and James as they pledged their love.

Afterwards, the crowd stayed on the mountain, drinking champagne and telling stories about and giving well wishes to the newlyweds. I loved seeing the love this family had for Kristel and James, it really was an intimate experience, with a lot of laughs and tears.

The formal shots were my favorite from this wedding. I mean, how on earth did I get so lucky to get both a photogenic couple AND this incredible scenery for my first wedding??

This one of James and his mom always gets me. Talk about a mom's love for her soldier..I love this picture.

Instead of a traditional reception, Kristel and James invited their guests to dinner at Guinness and Porcelli's Restaurant in downtown Bar Harbor. It was a perfect end to a gorgeous day, and the food was amazing!

Kristel and James, you truly have made my dreams come true. Words cannot express the gratitude I have for you for allowing me to take your wedding photos. You have unleashed something in me that I had no idea truly existed and I will be forever grateful. Happy Anniversary, you're a beautiful couple and I wish you many more anniversaries to come!

Eliza and Scott, 6.26.10

I first met Eliza last year at a college fair we were both attending at the Samoset Resort in Rockland. We both work in college admission, and were representing our respective schools. We became Facebook friends following the fair, and not long after, Eliza got engaged, and I started taking wedding pictures. I was thrilled when she asked if I would take hers. When I said yes, I had no idea the night I was in for. This was by far, the most energetic wedding I have been to, possibly ever. Eliza and Scott had no problem showing off their goofy sides, and their friends and family joined right in. Everywhere you looked at any point in the day and evening, everyone was having a good time. This will be a wedding they all will remember.

Watching Eliza get into her dress may have been the funniest thing I've ever seen. The dress fit her beautifully, but getting her in there was such a process..it took literally 5 minutes! I was impressed she didn't suffocate as they twisted and turned and pulled. I had tears in my eyes watching it unfold..I almost forgot to take the pictures!

Eliza and Scott chose to see each other before the wedding, and wanted to stop by their old apartment in Portland, where Scott proposed. I had no idea it would be such a gorgeous building!

The bouquet was so simple, it complimented Eliza's gorgeous dress and hair very well.

Who doesn't need a pre-wedding drink?? Before catching up with the rest of the gang, Eliza and Scott wanted to share a few moments together at their favorite Portland restaurant, Ribollita. I'd never been before, and it is adorable! Think North End Boston with Maine prices. I can't wait for my hubby to take me there (right hubby??) :)

Maybe that wine hit them a bit quickly?? Just kidding guys..I loved your goofy side!!

Usually formal pictures are just that..pretty formal. However, it was not too early for this crowd to start letting loose. :)

Both the ceremony and reception were held at The Portland Company on Fore St, right in the Old Port. I hadn't even heard of this hidden gem, and I could not believe how amazing it is! It is an old warehouse turned into a wedding venue. The ceremony was in one building overlooking Portland Harbor, and the reception was in a connecting building and the room itself was literally bigger than my house.

I loved the brick in the ceremony room..it made for some gorgeous shots!

Eliza and Scott wrote their own ceremony and vows. It was full of good friends reading messages to the both of them, and I don't think there was a dry eye in the room as they read their vows to each other.

I loved how they displayed their placecards. So creative!

The speeches were hilarious and had everyone in stitches!

The first dance was amazing. They danced to the sweet voice of Ray LaMontagne. I was actually choked up! (Yes, I am a sentimental wedding photographer..it happens!)

And then the party began!

These two politely stopped me in my tracks and asked me why I hadn't taken a picture of them yet. I told them it was because they hadn't done anything picture worthy, and they got right on the task! Nice job boys :)

This crowd was a blast, and the band, Roundabout did an incredible job of keeping the dance floor packed the entire night. I honestly can't think of a single song where there weren't people on the dance floor.

Scott and his buddies do an awesome rendition of Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire." The crowd was chanting it off and on throughout the night until the band finally invited the guys up to sing their song. It was a hit!

Eliza and Scott, you are wonderful. I can't tell you how much fun I had at your wedding. Thank you for including me, and don't be a stranger next time you're in Maine!