As a wedding photographer, I tend to get emotional during the weddings that I am able to capture. This was probably one of the most emotional weddings for me. From the beginning, tears were in their eyes. There was no doubt in my mind that these two amazing people were meant to be. Rachel and Patrick’s wedding was one that I will never forget.

As I walked into the cabin to photograph Rachel getting ready, I was welcomed with hugs and surrounded by amazing women. I couldn’t stop smiling as I watched and captured the moments of Rachel getting ready, she was beaming so bright. As we spent this time together they told me about the significance of the beautiful veil and shoes that Rachel would be wearing. Her shoes were actually those of her grandmothers who was no longer with them and the veil was made from her mothers’ wedding dress. I was in such awe at the history and beauty of these gorgeous heirlooms that had been passed down.

The first look had me in tears as the family gathered on the porch and watched Patrick see his beautiful bride in her dress for the first time. The love between not just these two people, but their families was so evident and truly inspiring. Justin and I were then able to take Patrick and Rachel to do their bridals. We laughed, talked and were filled with such joy as we interacted and captured the precious moments with them. We headed towards the woods where Patrick was determined to find the perfect stump to pose on, it was an adventure for sure and we loved every minute of it! As we got to know them more throughout that time, we fell in love with their love. These two adventure-seeking, kind-hearted and overall amazing people had found each other and it was a truly glorious day to be a part of.

“You don’t love someone for their looks, or their clothes, or for their fancy car, but because they sing a song only you can hear.” – Oscar Wilde

Throughout the ceremony, more tears filled the eyes of not just myself, but all those involved. There were wonderful words spoken by grandmothers and dear friends during this stunning ceremony which was officiated by none other than one of the bridesmaids. Love and joy filled the air as these two spoke beautifully written vows to each other and when it came for them say, “I Do” Patrick couldn’t wait as he said “I Do” before it was time. Each moment in the ceremony spoke so perfectly to the love, adventures, and life of Patrick and Rachel. I have never seen two people so ready for this step and so happy after they were announced as Husband and Wife.

The tears didn’t stop once the ceremony ended, they took a slight pause during a delicious cocktail hour and dinner but once the toasts started, they were back and it was beautiful. The words spoken by family brought tears of laughter and joy to their eyes. One moment in particular that stood out in my mind was that of Rachel’s mother when she quoted Pride and Prejudice.

“If this be the case, he deserves you. I could not have parted with you… to anyone less worthy.” – Mr. Bennet, Pride and Prejudice

The day turned to night and the party started as we made our way to the barn to dance the night away. The whole day was filled with memories that will not be soon forgotten by any of us in attendance.

More about Rachel and Patrick…

The Proposal: They were backpacking in the Grand Escalante National Monument. They had just arrived at their destination for the night, Jacob Hamlin Arch, and not another soul was in sight. Rachel started getting annoyed with Patrick for trying to set up his camera and tripod to get just the perfect shot. When he finally did, they posed for a photo which was actually a video but Rachel didn’t know it. She could hear his heart beating a mile a minute and commented on it. Patrick then got down on one knee and the rest is history!

Dress by BHLDN

Venue: Moose Creek Ranch https://www.moosecreekranch.com/