Being a wedding photographer is a non-stop job. Being the Maid of Honor is a persistent task. 

When my sister asked me to be her photographer I was elated. A few days later I texted her and asked, “who is your maid of honor then?” Her response, “you are.” I immediately knew that the task ahead of me was like nothing I’d ever done before. Despite the uncertainty of balancing two important roles, I had an absolute blast being part of this special day. So sister, ma soeur, this is for you, this is for your passion for film photography, for your constant love and support and your new life ahead. I love you more than cookies.

I couldn’t have imagined a more perfect day for Carley and Chris. Though the Smoky Mountain weather was quite cold we all nestled up in a Mountain lodge by the lake. The house was filled with the smell of freshly brewed coffee, a must seeing as Carley is a Barista. Girls, clothes, make-up and curling irons were scattered everywhere. I couldn’t believe that in just a few hours my darling little sister was going to be someone’s wife. We snacked, we laughed, I captured moments and held back tears. Helping Carley put her dress on was surreal. I can’t even count how many times we zipped each other up in white, pretending it was our wedding day as children. She was a beautiful bride and I couldn’t help but think Chris had to be one of the luckiest guys in the world. She walked down the stairs and to the lakeside where her groom was waiting to catch the first glimpse of his bride. First-looks are always a cherishing moment to witness. After far too long in the blistering cold taking photos it was time to head to the ceremony. Carley and Chris decided to write their own vows and I’m certain all eyes were a little watery. And before I knew it they were Mr. and Mrs. Birch. The ceremony was followed by a delicious home-made pasta bar, dancing and a song written by the incredibly talented Ansley McCallister as a gift to the happy couple. The barn, dimly lit, set the mood for an intimate affair. Everyone was huddled together in blankets watching as the bridal party stole the dance floor. It felt like hours had passed by the time everyone lit lanterns and sent them soaring into the sky. Carley and Chris both have a heart for Thailand and to serve there and I couldn’t think of any better way to send them off than setting lanterns in the sky!