Nearly two weeks ago I was boarding a plane headed for Phoenix, AZ to capture this beautiful couple on their special day! Back in March I received a text from some old friends, asking if I could come down and photograph their youngest daughter's wedding. I was more than happy to accept! It had been four years since we moved from Phoenix to Idaho, so I was excited to go back....but also slightly wary since I still very much remember the scorching heat that comes in late May. Its the type of heat that makes you think you're living on the services of the sun!
But the desert decided to play nice and the temperatures stayed in the low 80's for my stay, which was perfect! I flew in on a Thursday afternoon and by that evening, I met Cameron and Emma at the Phoenix Temple for their First Look. I loved capturing Cameron's first reaction to seeing Emma in her wedding dress for the first time. I told them beforehand to just be in the moment with each other, and I would be in the background capturing their candid moments, no posing needed. We then moved around the temple grounds taking more couple photos. Just as we were wrapping up, the most AMAZING sunset was just starting, so we stayed a little longer to watch the colors change.
Friday was the Big Day!! We all drove about an hour south to the Gilbert, AZ temple where Cameron and Emma were sealed for time and all eternity, surrounded by their closest family. I loved watching them come out the temple door, beaming with happiness. It made me think of my own wedding day and feeling that same joy upon exiting the temple with my new husband. We thought initially we would only be allowed about 15 minutes on the temple grounds, but thankfully it was late enough in the day that we were able to spend about 30-40 minutes and were able to get all the family and friend photos we needed. I then took the new couple around to the other side of the temple where I was able to get a great shot of them with the palm trees lining the path to the temple.
Saturday was Reception Day. I spent some time with both Emma and Cameron in the early afternoon so that I could get some shots of them "getting ready." We then all headed to the reception site where we took photos with the bridesmaids/groomsmen, more family photos, and photos with friends. Then it was time to party! Wood-fired pizza, salads, Italian soda bar, and desserts galore! I loved running into old friends and taking a few minutes to chat. It was so fun to catch up!
Finally, it was time for the Grand Exit. The happy couple exited the reception doors to a lined path of sparkler-bearing guests, cheering them all the way. A dip with a kiss was a perfect pose before jetting off to their honeymoon!
I love this family so much and I feel so honored that they allowed me to be part of this special weekend! Congrats to Emma & Cameron and the Kornegay and Kearl families!!
