Malia is a good friend of mine (and my boss before I went full-time with photography!), so this was an extra-special wedding. She and Ryan have been together for about 15 years, so this whole day felt like the official coming together of two families that have already been one for many years. I could feel the excitement in the room as soon as I walked into the girls’ hair and makeup suite, and the same high energy and joy carried through the whole day.

One of the most special parts of the day, strangely enough, was the weather. The forecast called for storms for most of the afternoon, but aside from a briefly dark sky and some wind, things remained calm. Then, just before the ceremony began, the sun came out. Light rain still drizzled, but the sky illuminated with a beautiful rainbow that hung around just long enough for us to snap a few photos of the newly married couple. It felt like God was smiling down upon the day as these two promised their lives to one another.

I loved watching this friend of mine be SO FULL of joy as this new beginning began. CONGRATULATIONS, Mr. & Mrs. Taylor! I feel so honored to have been a part of this day, and even more honored to know you both. May you have many moments in your life together that carry the same beautiful joy as this day.