Every couple has a unique story...
One of the best things about being a photographer is getting to hear bits and pieces of my clients' life stories. Sometimes I get to know them during one photoshoot, but with my wedding clients, I have the joy of getting to know them over a series of events. So, for example...
Consultation:
I got to hear a bit of Claire's story when we met for tea to discuss her upcoming wedding photography needs. One meeting is never enough to hear and understand someone's whole life story, but first impressions do matter. What struck me about Claire was her sweetness, beauty, cheerfulness, and the Greek tattoo on her right arm (more on that later).
Engagement Portrait Session:
Then I got to know Claire and Colton as I shot their engagement session last week. Fun part of that story: I prefer to shoot barefooted, but I usually keep my shoes on so that I look more professional... scroll through the photos to see why I felt so comfortable around this lovely couple.
Wedding Day:
I'm soooo excited to shoot Claire and Colton's wedding in a few weeks. Then, I'll get to meet their friends and family, get to see their personality in the wedding aesthetics, get to hear their hearts in the vows, etc. all while taking pictures to give a visual representation of the joy and love they share. Fun part of the story: Claire and Colton are legally already married, but they've held off on the ceremony celebration until all the family could be together.
So about the Greek tattoo on Claire's right arm...
Claire is a perceptive young woman. She knows loss, and she knows pain. Many of you in Nacogdoches know her and her family's story far better than I do. In Claire's words, her tattoo is a reminder to keep "my eyes open to the world to better protect the little ones and myself. And as that perception is often painful, it's what enables me to love more fully and to the best of my ability." Translated, the tattoo says:
"To perceive is to suffer."// "To suffer is to love."
So, Claire and Colton,
Thank you for letting me in on your story. Thank you for your example of perceiving, suffering, and then trusting God to transform you and your ability to love. May the depth of your love for each other be inspired by the depth of His love for you. And may that be the distinguishing feature and seal of your marriage.
