ALYSSA & AUSTIN / COTTON ROOM / DURHAM, NC

When you have a couple who look like models straight out of a wedding magazine, life is pretty good. Alyssa and Austin were so stunning on their special day, and as you can tell my camera was absolutely in love with them, their sweet families, and the greatest reception party I have been a part of, in a while. When I got the chance to hangout with Austin & Alyssa before the big day, they told me how important their family was to them, and let me tell you how beautiful it was to witness their family love and celebrate them in such intentional ways. There was laughter, tears, and many sweet embraces to show their support for these two lives joining together.

It was the most evident from the very moment Alyssa got into her backless dress, and Austin put on that tux, they were ready to see each other during their first look. One thing people might not realize about a first look is that it is kind of the quiet before the wonderful, overwhelming, crazy, lovely storm takes place. It is rare you will be alone with just your person again on your wedding day, as you are surrounded by the many people you love, but that intimate first look moment can be so precious. It calms the nerves, but most importantly I believe it also prepares your heart for the big known moment of walking down the aisle and saying “I choose you everyday.”

As soon as Alyssa & Auston said I do, and walked back up that aisle, it was such a epic celebration of love and family. Absolutely everything you would want in that one day where you get to have all your favorite people together. It was truly a day to remember.