It could be because I’m getting older. It could be because I’m getting married soon. It could be because it’s the first time in five years that I haven’t had to think about exams while eating turkey. Whatever the reason, though, I find myself more spirited and more thankful this Thanksgiving than I have been in a long time. I’m overwhelmed by the love I receive from my family, my friends and my wonderful fiance. My heart swells knowing that I have incredible clients who appreciate my style and invite me to be part of such an important time in their lives. I am so thankful to have what I consider to be one of the best jobs in the world, and it’s clients like Ashleigh who make me feel this way. When we first got together to chat about her wedding plans, we ended up hanging out and having lunch. We talked and laughed like old friends, and I knew that I would have an amazing time celebrating with her and Troster, the love of her life.

Guys, I had so much fun hanging out with you and photographing you. Happy Thanksgiving

I love that Ashleigh has to stand up out of her shoes on her tip toes to kiss Troster. He’s so tall!

I have the best job in the world, and I’m about to show you why. Are you ready? I hope so. I have the most wonderful clients in the world, and I owe my supreme job satisfaction to them. Seth and Emily are such a fun, relaxed couple, and I was ecstatic when they invited me to join them for their intimate Las Caletas wedding. But before I jump into their wedding photos, I have to show you the view from my room at the Dreams Resort. It was absolutely stunning.

Yep, that photo was taken at sunrise. My day began very early, because I got up to accompany Emily and her mini-entourage to Caletas. We spent the morning chilling on the beach. Again: Best. Job. In the world. OK, I’m done now. Almost. I promise.

Emily was so excited and nervous, and she couldn’t sit down for very long. Every few minutes she’d walk out into the waves and just breathe. It was as if she was watching the horizon, waiting for Seth to arrive. I love that you can see her reflection on the beach in this shot.

Emily’s dress was absolutely beautiful. It had a vintage feel, and it suited her perfectly.

Warning: I kind of went a little crazy with the detail shots. Again. You know how I adore my details!

I love the warm, tropical palette she chose for her decor. Nicole is one of the lead wedding planners for Adventure Weddings, and she styled the event wonderfully. I was so excited to see her again. I worked with her for William and Hilary’s wedding last July, and I was so glad that she passed my name along to Emily and Seth. Nicole: You know I think you’re fabulous. I look forward to working with you again once I’m a married woman! Woohoo!

Emily was not sure she wanted a professional make up artist at first, but after thinking it over she decided she wanted to make the investment. I always think it’s smart to go with a professional, and Fernando did such an amazing job!

See? As if she wasn’t gorgeous enough already. Oh my goodness.

It was finally time for Emily and Seth to see each other. Doesn’t Emily look so excited? The light was so warm and beautiful.

SNUGGLES!! This photo makes me want to hug on my sweetheart. Where is he when I need him?

You two look like you stepped straight out of a magazine. Seriously.

I could shoot here all the time. Can you blame me?

Ceremony time!

The look on Seth’s face just makes my heart melt. To my current and future brides: This photo proves that seeing each other before the ceremony does not take away anything from it. Nothing could ruin this moment. Your man goes from being a bachelor to a husband in about 20 steps. It’s overwhelming and magical and powerful, and breaking a silly superstition won’t take that away from you.

Seth: Please spend your whole life showing Emily this much adoration. She’ll never have to wonder how much you love her if you look at her just like this.

They are smiley people. I love that about them

Married!

Seth and Emily: You’re wonderful. I had such an amazing time getting to know you and celebrating with you and your families. I pray that your love will be strengthened with each new day, and I wish you many adventures in your lives together.

I love this couple. They share a love that is genuine and full of joy. Their relationship is firmly founded on the sure belief that they were made for each other, and it’s not difficult to see. During their wedding ceremony, the ministers read love letters that these two wrote to each other, and I think Jennifer communicated her excitement best in these words: Joe, I can’t believe this day is finally here. I have been waiting for you. When we met, I knew that you would be mine forever. I loved Jennifer’s love letter so much that I decided to include excerpts from it throughout this post. Anything written in italics is straight from Jenn’s heart to Joe’s.

I have a thing for delicate, feminine veils, and I love how cute Jennifer looks all wrapped up in hers.

Can’t you just feel her anticipation?

Jennifer, I can’t think of a more appropriate word to describe you than lovely. You are lovely.

And you’re groom isn’t too shabby, either!

Jennifer and her father spend a moment alone in the bride’s room right before walking down the aisle.

I love the overwhelming comfort that Jennifer expressed in her love letter to Joe. It is the comfort of knowing that after a long and arduous journey, your soul has finally found its match. I knew without a doubt you were the answer to my prayers.

You are and always will be my heart, my home, my family and my future. I love you with everything I am and everything we will be together.

Peachtree Christian Church is so beautiful, so after we photographed the families together, we stuck around to grab a few of the newlyweds.

Joe and Jennifer’s reception was held at the Garden Tent at Park Tavern, and even though it was pitch dark outside, we ventured out into the night to grab a few shots with the Atlanta skyline in the background. The more I shoot at night, the more in love I get with these kinds of photos.

Introducing: Mr. and Mrs! Congratulations!!

Their dance was part waltz, part high energy swing, and it was definitely a crowd pleaser!

Joe and Jennifer, you are truly wonderful. I had so much fun celebrating with the two of you. Your love story has encouraged me greatly, and I wish you many healthy, athletic adventures together in your future