WEDDING // CAMERON & JOSH // CRITZ, VIRGINIA

I am terrible with words. Honestly, terrible. I have savored these images for about a month now. I've poured over them time and time again, trying to make them absolutely perfect because these are not images from a random wedding day I was paid to do.. these are images from my best friend's wedding. I've come to realize that it's impossible to make these images as perfect as the day was, because it's a feeling and not an actual moment that I hold preciously in my heart.

I can still hear all the flutterings around her aunt's house that morning, trying to hide Cameron and Josh from each other as they both got ready on different levels. Walking into the barn, seeing the labor of love that her mom and great-aunt Betty were putting into making all of the flower arrangements. Our stolen conversations throughout the day as best friends, giddy with nervousness and excitement. When her dad walked into the bathroom where she was getting ready, took his sunglasses off to look at her and had to walk back out of the room because he started crying. That stomach dropping moment when Cameron stepped out the door of her aunt's house to "23" by Jimmy Eat World, grasping her dad's arm tight with a huge smile on her face as she walked towards Josh. And that moment when I glanced her groom, with tears pouring down his cheeks seeing that he couldn't contain his love for Cameron - the moment that made me instantly start sobbing, so happy for them both.

I think the day flew by for all of us. Such an exciting, beautiful fresh beginning for the two of them.

Cam & Josh: There's so much I want to say, but I really can't find the words. Just know that I love you both so incredibly much. I can't wait to see where you two go both as individuals, and as a beautiful couple. Keep that passion for each other (and the kitties).

"I knew this was our time, no one else will have me like you do... No one else will have me, only you"

ATTENTION:: Brides, due to the insane amount of inquiries I've received, please do not email me about Cameron's wedding dress! It is made by Justin Alexander.

ENGAGEMENT // KRISTEN & TYLER // BOONE, NORTH CAROLINA

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.]

CALIFORNIA // PERSONAL POST

I visited California with one of my best friends back in May. Here are some of my favorite {personal} images. Thanks to: Erin "Mama" Burns. Your generosity was astounding. Thank you for letting us stay at your home and meet your amazing family. You guys are the absolute best. Give the girls and Munch my love :] And to my readers, go read her blog :)

Carly & Allen: You two are phenomenal, loving people. In the short time that I was able to spend with you, I grew to love you and feel like we have an instant bond. I can't wait to see how you guys grow as a (soon to be married!) couple. Keep that faith and passion for God and life and you will go so, so far. Love you both :]

April, LOVEYOUGIRL.

Instagram Shotz:

ENGAGEMENT // CAITLIN & CHARLIE // BOONE, NORTH CAROLINA

I met Caitlin either my junior or senior year of college, at Appalachian. She was friends with one of my best friends, Cameron - we went to one dinner together (Chili's, I distinctly remember) but that's all it took. After that, I felt this bond with Caitlin that I can't really explain. We only hung out a handful of times at school, but she's one of those people you can confide in and come to with problems and know that she'll be there, even if it's just to listen. And after hearing about Charlie for years, I finally met him the day before our engagement session (which was completely impromptu!) He's such a sweet, gentle guy with a passion for Bon Iver that matches my own and a love for Caitlin that is so unbelievably evident. The sky was black at one point and the sun was in and out of the clouds all day, but they didn't care. Their love for each other could light up an entire room.

Do me a favor and listen to this song while scrolling through their engagement session.

[audio: http://turntablr.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/03-Holocene.mp3]