I know this sounds a little silly, but I think that the coolest thing about being friends with people for long periods of time is being able to see how their lives unfold. I met Kristen through my dear friend Carla about four years ago, when we both lived in Boone. She was one of those people that I instantly clicked with, (I know I say that a lot, but it's true!) - we went to a Do It To Julia concert (now known as River Whyless, go check them out), had some beers and formed a friendship. One or two years later, she sat us down and uttered those two words that have since forever changed her life, "I'm pregnant!!" so Kristen decided to move home, and begin a life with her then-boyfriend, now fiancee Tyler :]

Now they have precious little Jude, and I can sense the peace she has in her heart. I didn't officially meet Tyler until the day of our engagement session in Boone, but instantly I could feel the immense amount of love they have for each other. Tyler was such a good sport, literally frolicking through the grass and making Kristen giggle on command.

I am so unbelievably excited to shoot their wedding in August. I truly love all my brides, but after hearing the amount of detail and love that Kristen is putting into planning their big day.. I may just be a tad bit more excited about this one ;]

Per Kristen's request.. give a listen to "Tupelo Honey" by Van Morrison while scrolling through their session!

[audio: http://www.crazymonkeygurls.com/a/tupelohoney.mp3]

[^ This one is one of my favorites from the entire session.]