I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure what 2020 weddings were going to look like after the shut down, then the slow re-opening and allowing of small gatherings, then the mask mandate. I didn’t have high hopes simply because this is all new to everyone but really, these weddings are no different than elopements and elopements can be STUNNING. You still get your florals, your dress, your hair and makeup, the biggest difference is the guest list. Not downplaying that at all, I can’t even imagine how difficult it must be cutting your original wedding guest list in half or more.
I’m in awe of my couples that are so gracefully navigating their way through these insanely difficult times. Although they all show some stress, confusion or frustration (or all 3!) come their wedding day, they are so calm and relaxed and just happy to be getting married! That’s what it should be about in the first place, marrying the love of your life. Claire and Matt approached their special day with such excitement and full of love. I showed up to where Claire and her girls were getting ready and the atmosphere was so chill! You never know what the getting ready space will look or feel like, but it almost always sets the tone for the day, so I am always relieved when I walk in and feel excitement and joy instead of stress and nerves. After taking some bridal detail shots and some stunning portraits of Claire in her dress, I went down to the beach where Claire and Matt were going to be having their first look and their ceremony. I found that someone had done some adorable chalk drawings to help them celebrate (how sweet!!) and then Matt met up with me shortly after. He had their two dogs with him which I thought was the best. Nate and Ottis are their children so it only made sense that they would be involved in one of the most special days of their parents lives 😉 Matt was so excited to see Claire so I waisted no time and set him up for the first look…after we moved 3 enormous picnic benches! Insert sweat here….Anyway, I ran back up the hill to get Claire who had just arrived and got her ready to see her soon to be groom. The excitement was infectious. I just LOVE FIRST LOOKS!!!! The initial reaction, the emotion, no stress or pressure from everyone staring (except me!) they are just the best and this particular first look was incredibly sweet.
After the first look, we realized we had so much extra time for portraits which was amazing and then they got ready for their intimate ceremony. It was small but perfect, zero stress, 100% joy and the weather was beautiful on the water. Claire and Matt, I am so incredibly happy for you two. You both deserve all of the happiness in the world and I can’t wait to celebrate you all over again next year! Cheers!
