A year and one day ago, I photographed Courtney Stout and Nick Maksimowicz in Carmel Valley, California. Their friends organized the wedding, rehearsal and reception. Courtney and Nick have good friends, and by the time I left the Monterey Peninsula, I felt that I had many more good friends too.
I often feel blessed or lucky to be allowed to document important moments. I rarely photograph want to photograph weddings, but weddings are important community events. People have often chased a dream since childhood hoping to find someone who they can trust. Weddings build families; families build communities.
When I edited the pictures, I listened to Kris&Alix, the same musicians who performed at the wedding. “…tired of reaching out, tired of all the doubt… ”
When I reviewed last year’s photos, I rejoiced watching Courtney’s friends help her prepare for the ceremony. I laughed again as eight women celebrated at the photo booth.
The first anniversary is the paper anniversary. When I married my wife more than ten years ago, I knew about the paper anniversary, but not the cotton, leather or wood anniversary. Did you know that there is a tin anniversary? What begins as a marketing concept, becomes tradition.
Love and friendship will always be part of any wedding tradition.
To see more photos from the wedding
Gallery 1 Wedding Portraits
Gallery 2 Wedding and Reception
Gallery 3 Wedding Photo Booth