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!