The Best of 2018

I got in my car after my last wedding of 2018. I couldn’t have imagined a better end to the year. I pulled out of the parking lot, but the road was blurred in front of me. Tears filled my eyes. Grateful. So very grateful for this year. 

2018 was my second year of full time business. My first year, I got married, moved to a totally new place, and basically started my business all over again. It wasn’t easy. But I worked as hard as I could to make new friends, build a new clientele, and get my work out there. So, heading into 2018, I prayed and asked the Lord to give me at least 10 weddings. I felt like that was a big number. I had no clue if Id reach that goal, but I set it and asked the Lord anyway. 

Little did I know He would blow that number out of the water, giving me more than double what I asked for. Not only did He bless me with more than I asked for, but He also gave me THE best couples to work with. To meet. To get to know. To hang out with. I’ve met some phenomenal people this year. Been a part of some extremely special moments. Got to witness the start of many lives together. And for that, I’m beyond grateful. Totally undeserving. But grateful. 

I got to photograph a couple all the way from North Dakota who got married at Chimney Rock, travel to Montana for an engagement session, shoot some of our best friend’s proposal, got a styled shoot featured, was able to shoot in a few of my dream locations like Craggy Gardens and Lady Luck Flower Farm, and partnered with some wonderfully talented creatives. Never thought all of this would happen this year. But God is way bigger than my little plans. 

To all my 2018 brides and grooms, thank you. From the bottom of my heart, for trusting me with such a significant part of your lives. These images mean the world to me, because they remind me of how greatly you’ve blessed my life this year. God used YOU to show me His faithfulness, His love for me, and His blessing on my business. The highlight of my year was being a part of these moments with you. So much love for you all. 

Here are some of my favorite memories of 2018. It will be hard for 2019 to beat this.

Rachel Belk // Bridal

Hi friends!!

I am busy editing away on Rachel & Quincy's wedding photos (which are absolutely dreamy..can't wait to share them!!). But until then, I figured I would share some of Rachel's bridal portraits that we did at The Southern Bleachery in Taylors, SC. This place used to be an old textile mill and has such a rich history. Someone recently bought it, renovated it, and has turned it into a gorgeous wedding or event venue. I think it reflected Rachel's style perfectly, simple & beautiful. I had SO much fun doing these. I would shoot, look at the back of my camera, and be in awe. Everything about this shoot was perfect. I also loved the image Rachel chose as her bridal portrait (4th image in post). Most brides chose a very traditional, full length photo of them smiling at the camera with the whole dress in view (and there is nothing wrong with that). Yet, Rachel chose a close up image, which made me super happy because I LOVE close ups. 

Also, my great friend Lexi, at Consider the Lilies, made her stunning bouquet. I mean look at that thing...it could be in a magazine!! Her work always amazes me, and anytime I can work with her, I do it!! Future brides, hire her if you can! You won't regret it. 

Rachel, you were a beautiful bride, and your beauty on the inside far exceeds your external beauty. Thanks for letting me do these and for putting up with my constant oohs and ahhs while taking these! 

xoxo