My heart is so full as I prepare to share this wedding with you. There are some weddings I have the honor of capturing that move me, that change me, that mean so much to me it's difficult to express in words. That's when I'm so grateful for pictures; photographs that capture the smallest moments, the details, the tears, the expressions. Photographs that capture the people and relationships that are dearest to my heart.

Will and I had the honor of photographing our best friends' wedding: his brother, John Ray, and his bride, Samantha. I have known Sam since the 6th grade, and we have been best friends for almost 12 years now. Will has obviously known John his entire life :]. It is overwhelmingly joyous to see two of the people you love the most fall in love, and commit their hearts and lives to one another! We will forever share our Thanksgivings, Christmases, Birthdays, our families and our lives with these two.

I will hold this weekend in my mind and heart as one of the most precious events I have ever been to. For those of you who were there, you know what I mean. There was tangible love, the power of the Spirit, and joy like none other. The Lord's presence was there. There were acts of service, kindness, and community that pulled this entire celebration together. For those of you who weren't there, you will be able to see how sweet this day was, down to the very last detail!

To answer the question you are already asking, yes, we were IN the wedding too! Will was John's best man, I was Sam's bridesmaid. (You can look closely and find us in some of the photos.) Many big hugs to Sarah Der, our amazing 3rd photographer for the day, and the only photographer during the ceremony. She was remarkable!

Also, a BIG thank you to Southern Weddings Blog for featuring John and Samantha's wedding! Be sure to leave some comment love on their feature.

Venue: Private Residence at Lake Gaston, NC
Videographer: Andrew Vanover
Caterer: The Drummonds (friends of bride and groom)
Flowers: Homestead Flower Farms, Warrenton, NC
Planner: Kay MacDonald
Cake Artist: Cakes and Pies provided by friends and relatives
Rentals: Suzanna's Antiques
Hair Flower: Gardens of Whimsy
Hair stylist/Makeup Artist: Samantha Crowder Ray

Above: One of my favorite moments. Sam's "something borrowed" was my wedding veil, and I loved placing it in her hair. Yes, there were a few tears involved :].

Part 2, J + S's adorable Southern reception, is debuting tomorrow! Stay tuned...