My first gig as a wedding photographer was at First Baptist Church in Provo, Utah, and the first couple that trusted me to capture their wedding day started out as perfect strangers! I was recommended to Mathew and MaryKate by another photographer. We set up a virtual meeting and chatted about their vision for their wedding. I could tell they were a kind, thoughtful couple that were confident in their relationship. I recommended some places to consider for their first look and formal pictures, then we made a plan to meet up at one of these beautiful locations to scope it out and get to know each other. We hiked, snacked, and chatted for over an hour! It was the perfect spot, and they were absolutely lovely.
When I first checked in with Mathew on his wedding day, he was a bit jittery but really excited to marry his beautiful fiancée. We had so much fun taking pictures of him with his groomsmen, and he took time with each of them to thank them individually.
As their prep time wound down, Mathew suddenly seemed even more nervous than before. I told him how beautifully the day was unfolding already, and then I asked if he would like to pray with his groomsmen. He immediately seemed more calm. I respectfully asked if I could photograph the moment—and he agreed. Watching Mathew’s brothers and closest friends surround him and place their hands on his shoulders was emotional and deeply personal. It was a privilege to witness their brotherly love for each other.
The formal photos went smoothly thanks to some strong pre-planning and a great wedding coordinator. We worked really well together to get all the pictures we needed within the short amount of time we had before the ceremony. I had reviewed the bride’s Pinterest board ahead of time and created a shot list combining this inspiration with her list of family and bridal party members, so when the time came, she didn’t have to worry about a thing. She was thrilled, and I was so happy to deliver exactly what she envisioned.
Mathew and MaryKate were married on a Saturday afternoon inside a church that meant a good deal to both of them because they met through their church community. They asked their guests to put their phones away and be fully present with them as they all sang and prayed together. Then the couple was married, and as they walked down the aisle as husband and wife, they could make eye contact with each of their guests, who were looking and smiling back at them. There were no phones in sight, just connection and love. Their church community came out impressively in full support, and we got a beautiful group photo that speaks volumes about the love surrounding them.
There had been a lot of laughter and tears throughout the day already, but the tears flowed hard during the father-daughter dance.
After lots of celebrating, the newlyweds had an absolutely gorgeous sparkler send-off.
Then they drove off toward the California coast with bikes strapped to the back of their car, ready for an adventurous honeymoon. That image—of their shared anticipation for adventure—is one I’ll carry with me for a long time. I have a good feeling that these two will have many happy adventures in the years to come!
I went to lunch with Mathew and MaryKate recently and enjoyed catching up with them. Married life has added strength to their happiness, and they have a positive energy that they unconsciously share with others. It was awesome to be with them again. They aren’t strangers anymore; they are friends I adore and am forever grateful for.
"Sarah was such a joy to work with, and she photographed our wedding SO well! She was reliable, showed up to every meeting early, and went above and beyond to find the perfect location for our photos. On wedding day, she helped everyone stay on track with time so my fiancé and I didn’t have to worry about a thing. Sarah not only provided great photography, but she also provided much-needed wedding day encouragement. She had such beautiful and creative ideas for poses, too!"
MaryKate