She's the middle child and second of two girls. Her parents never thought she could be as sweet as her older sister...and yet...she is!!
He is one of 4 boys. I am sure he had a way of bringing life, love and mischievous behavior to the mix.
Together, these two, Emily & Stephen are a perfect match.
Emily & her sister, Stefanie own a floral business, STEM floral design. I met Stefanie at the Snohomish Wedding Guild meetings we both attend sometimes.
When Emily & Steve got engaged she knew she wanted me to photograph her wedding! Honestly these are the kinds of things that blow me away and it felt so good to be handpicked to photograph their special day!
Emily & I met for coffee and I have to say it was easy from the start. I am sure that is how Steve felt at first as well. No I am not in love with her like Steve is, but she sure is easy to like!
We talked about their ideas for the wedding and that even though it was at a golf course they didn't have to have all of the photos on the green...they were happy to incorporate areas around it to do something different. That is like music to my ears...flexibility! And they trust me!
Of course Steve being an avid golfer, a few photos on the green would only be natural!
Emily is absolutely the most pleasant person to be around. She is always thinking about someone else and made me comfortable and super excited to shoot their wedding.
The day finally arrived and as I walked into the lobby there she was...Emily working away with a smile arranging flowers and center pieces. You can tell she is very dedicated to what she does as her parents grew all of the flowers in their yard and Emily & Stefanie designed and arranged all of the center pieces and bouquets the night before. They were not only beautiful to look at but they smelled so fragrant!
Shortly after Steve made his appearance. For having never met Steve you would think we had known each other for a while. He is warm and engaging, and just when I thought Emily was over the top sweet here is a guy equally as sweet. WHAT!?
Considerate and genuine with almost as big and blue of eyes as her. Seriously they are a PERFECT match.
With each of them having 8 in their bridal party they did very well to keep on time. AND a big shout out to Emily who did her own hair and makeup...and looked flawless to boot!
We decided to do a first look with Emily's dad as well as with Steve. Tears were flowing and the love and adoration Wayne has for his daughter is endearing. It was kind of neat to have Steve watch from the sidelines.
Emily looked like a princess and Steve was smitten. Embracing and taking a moment to let their nerves settle...they were in disbelief that their day was finally here. We wondered to a nearby park dodging cars along the way. I love how most people are forgiving of a bride, must be the huge white gown with yard of tulle!
We did a bit of trespassing but it wouldn't really be a shoot with me if we didn't.
The bridal party joined us soon thereafter as well as their beverages...it was a hot day and I try to keep the photos fun and relaxed so it is enjoyable for all If drinks help by all means bring them along. We ended on the putting green celebrating the gift Emily gave to Steve, a new putter with a note that read 'You make my heart pitter putter'. Emily will have to wait to use part of her gift, a Cinnabon giftcard (she has been saving up to eat those carbs again) and a pair of sunglasses for Hawaii (their honeymoon happening in a few weeks). The one thing she immediately wore were the sparkling new diamonds Steve surprised her with.
Prior to the ceremony the family gathered near these big white doors outside the ballroom. I love these doors as a backdrop for a pics. Its classy and classic and was an easy area for everyone to congregate. The ceremony was set for 5:30 and a friend of Emily's, Emma, was officiating it. She also had a fellow friend as a cellist as guests arrived. Emma gave them the cutest gift that promotes togetherness. A frying pan and a cook book called 'One Pan Two Plates'. Love it!
During their vows they reiterated important words they always say to each other and remind each other often in cards. 'I love you AND I like you'. Even as I write this now it makes me tear up as it's soooo true. It's such a concept...to like our spouse as much as we love them. I think that is something that is often lost after years of marriage. Thank you, for the reminder!!
After the 'I Do's' they had flower petals sprinkled on them as they ran down the aisle. Dinner commenced shortly after and toasts began. What lovely words were spoken by her sister, his best man and her dad. Words of love, adoration and encouragement for the future. The best man had a long poem/ song and gosh I wish I could quote it all...I must say it was rather impressive.