I can’t tell you what a great feeling it is for me when I arrive at a wedding and am greeted with a smile like this.

Blog readers, meet Jessica. She is absolutely one of the most joyful brides I’ve ever had the privilege of working with. She did not stop smiling and laughing all day. She had a vibrant energy that spread to everyone around her, and she was so much fun to photograph. When I arrived, she excitedly showed me all of the little details that made her day special and personal, from her rockin’ red high heels and camo garter to her mother’s ring and grandmother’s handkerchief. She seemed to skip from place to place as she showed me around, and I smiled and thanked God for giving me such an amazing opportunity to celebrate life and love with such wonderful people. I know that I am truly blessed.

Derek and Jessica were married at the Carl House, which is quickly becoming one of my favorite locations. The inside of the house is warm and open with lots of windows, and it is surrounded by lots of places to explore for pictures. I had so much fun wandering around scouting the area, and I was so excited when I discovered a red barn that would be a perfect backdrop to compliment Jessica’s details. Here are a few from the day.

See what I mean about the warmth and the light inside? Perfect!

I had my good friend Mark come along to photograph the guys, so I had ample time to hang out with the girls, who were seriously workin’ it for the camera. Check out Jessica in these two. Gorgeous!

I love this shot of Derek laughing with his mom as he escorted her down the aisle. Like I said before, the laughter was never-ending.

Check out the look on Derek’s face as he gazes at his beautiful bride. He knows he’s the luckiest man alive right now.

Remember that red barn I was talking about? Helllllooooo bright, beautiful color! I love this portrait of the two of them. They are so relaxed and happy.

Oh, silly signs. When will they learn they can’t keep me away from awesome shooting spots?

When I chatted with Jessica and Derek before their wedding, they said they had a simple, romantic style, and they wanted that to be reflected in their photos. I told them they chose the right photographer, because simple romance is what I love.

Now on to one of my favorite parts of the night: the party! I love dancing shots, if you can’t tell.

I don’t usually post shots like this, but I really loved this picture of Jessica chatting with Derek’s grandmother. This woman is my new hero. She is in her seventies, and I’m pretty sure this is the only time I caught her sitting down all night. Even when the DJ started pumping out rap music, she didn’t care. She even grooved along to Get Low and Baby Got Back. That’s the kind of spirit I want to have when I’m in my seventies!

More laughter as the maid of honor toasts the happy couple.

Jessica and Derek share a sweet kiss after what turned into a messy cake cutting.

Derek and Jessica, it was a joy to celebrate your wedding with you, and I wish you many adventures in your years together. Thanks for inviting me to be part of your amazing day!

I love my job. The end.

More images coming soon.