Stephanie and Austin | Wedding | C. Tyson Photography

………… I do not know even where to begin ………..

I could start at one of the, what feels like, 18 meetings I had with Stephanie and her mother. Or I could start with how I am surprised that all the groomsmen have all their fingers and sanity after hearing the stories of their adventures together. Actually, I know what i can kick off this blog with.

Open arms.

At the end of Stephanie and Austin’s wedding, I was greeted with open arms from Stephanie, Austin and Stephanie’s mother. They were hugs that meant more to me than anything else that day. You see I have been through alot with Stephanie, Austin and their family and I do not say that in flippant manner either. We have been through so many meetings, phone calls and some tough moments. The whole time this was happening though, I knew I was building more than just a client relationship. I was making friends.

As I learned through the day, this open arms trait is not a unique experience to me. Stephanie and Austin’s family both posses this trait and it took me about 12 seconds with both the bridesmaids and groomsmen to learn that their friends are the exact same way. The bonds their family and friends have created are something this truly special and I feel blessed I was able to capture it.

Stephanie and Austin, I know you are on the beach. Well I hope you are on the beach at least. While you are there relaxing and listening to Ocean crash the shore, I hope you realize that I do not see myself as the photographer to your wedding anymore. Rather I see myself as a friend who not only invited to your wedding but actually invited in your life. Thank you for that opportunity!!