It’s a mystery to us all where life will take us and which encounters will be but a fleeting moment, and which will become so much more. A simple encounter with a new person can go from just being strangers, to the moment a friendship or lifetime love began. Jim and Marissa’s wedding was filled will friendly and familiar faces I had the joy of photographing in the past. More about this at the bottom of the post. Enjoy!

On August first, Jim and Marissa shared wedding vows at St. Mary Magdalen Mission Church, which was blessed and officiated by Jim’s family pastor. I couldn’t help but smile every time Jim leaned into Marissa and whispered in her ear. They just make the sweetest couple! It’s been said that the prettiest thing you can wear is a smile. Marissa was radiant and I don’t think stopped smiling for one minute on her wedding day. Their joy and smiles were contagious and made for a very fun and exciting reception at the Water’s Edge Event Center. It’s really special to see how friends grow together over the years and to be invited back by the same group of folks to photograph such beautiful life events. In 2010, I had the honor of photographing Andrea and Brian’s wedding. Marissa was one of Andrea’s bridesmaids and now Andrea stood by Marissa’s side as one of her girls. In 2012 I had the pleasure of seeing these ladies again at Amanda and Phil’s wedding. Amanda is Marissa’s sister, who returned the privilege of Matron of Honor on Marissa’s wedding day. For me, awesome people are at the heart of compelling and soulful weddings, which is why all three of these weddings are unforgettable to me! Marissa and Jim are a total blast to be around and they surround themselves with wonderful friends and family. Congrats Marissa and Jim, and hey, maybe I’ll see you soon at another wedding ; )