One of the incredible things about photography is that it connects me to people in unique ways that are really kind of magically. Years back, Leah and I were both working for the same company, same department, yet different teams. Leah was one of those people that you knew you could just reach out to with any question you had, big or small, or seemingly stupid. She always had a big smile (even if you couldn't see it, you could hear it) and she was always happy to help and send you back on your way. Then one day she was gone. On to bigger and better things out of state.
Flash forward a few years and I'm photographing a small scale prom in the area when I eye a young woman who looks oddly familiar but I can't quite place her. But she had this big warm and happy smile, full of life. As I made my way through formal portraits of all of the guests I stole off to grab some images of the interior of the space when lo and behold there was Leah, DJing for the dance. We quickly catch up and it becomes apparent the reason that bright and happy teen looked familiar was because she was Leah's sister.
Years continue to pass and during this past spring's little league baseball season I was approached by a fellow mom and little league board member, Angie, who mind you, is the the one making sure the snack shack is up and running for every home game. I mean EVERY home game. Pretty sure she lived at the field with me for several months. Angie approached me and asked if I photographed weddings because her friend was getting married that fall and the plan they initially had for a photographer wasn't looking like it was going to work out. Camera affixed to my face I said "Yes! Feel free to pass my name along."
And folks...if that beautiful friend of Angie's wasn't our Leah. My word. Leah and Ben met with me for some engagement photos in August. The adoration for one another was so THICK in the air. These two have major chemistry and such a deep respect and connection. It's crazy! The move in unison and just a touch is enough to evoke emotion that will make any romance novel enthusiast swoon. They're like magic together!
And let me tell you. If their wedding day wasn't MORE of the same love story. The strong emotional connection between them, their families, their friends...I'd be lying if I said I wasn't in tears SEVERAL times that day. Watching the two of them, hearing the speeches from their loved ones. Folks, it's clear that this is a match made in Heaven and 1,000% supported by every single person in their lives. A brother that married them, another who's band played at the reception, the sister who stood up with them, the amazing friends and family that traveled from Rhode Island and beyond to support them. Absolutely, amazing.
I've rambled on enough...let me just share some highlights of their day, sprinkled with lavender, eucalyptus, and coffee. I'd never be able to use words to do their story justice. I wish I could have bottled up every spoken word that day so you'd understand how amazing Ben & Leah are together.
Photographer: Humble Sight Photography
Ceremony: Pilgrim Orthodox Presbyterian Church
Dress: Spark Bridal
Suit: Our Place Tuxedo
Reception: Peakes Hill Lodge
Cake: Frank's Bake Shop
Flowers: DIY
Band: Fire Pit