Happy 2020, everyone! Before we dive into what the new year holds, let me share my last 2019 wedding with you.

While I’m so excited to photograph everyone’s special day, this wedding was especially dear to my heart as I got to capture the marriage of my second cousin, Beverly, and her sweet husband, John. As Beverly’s father was my dad’s cousin, we spent a lot of time together growing up. We’re only a month apart in age, so we hit most major life milestones around the same time. She celebrated my wedding with Josh, and now I got to celebrate her wedding with John. I got to catch up with several family members at this wedding, and knew just what family arrangements we’d need for the family portraits. As both the wedding photographer and a guest, I got to fully experience and capture all the wonderful moments!

John and Beverly started dating in high school. They both serve in the US Army, as does Beverly’s mother. Go Army! Their wedding perfectly reflected their fun-loving relationship. They were married in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and celebrated afterward down the road at The Kings Mill Event Venue.

After cocktail hour, the DJ introduced their wedding party to the reception. Like most weddings I’ve photographed, the newly married bride and groom shared their first dance after their introduction. But this first dance came with an incredibly poignant twist: Beverly and John danced to a karaoke recording of Beverly’s late father singing “Forever and Ever, Amen.” Almost immediately, I had tears in my eyes. I looked over at my extended family and saw that I wasn’t alone. John held Beverly close as she let the emotions of the song and of the day take hold of her as well. Her father, Glen, was an amazing musician and he always brought such cheer to his audiences. And once more, he graced us with his voice. It was such a special moment that I will hold dear for a very long time.

Congratulations, Beverly and John! I look forward to cherishing many more memories with you both in the years to come! I’m so happy for you both and excited to see where life takes you in the many years ahead.