Valerie & Justin . Married .

“A joyful heart is the inevitable result of a heart burning with love.” – Mother Theresa

This past Wednesday, I headed down to the beach to document Valerie & Justin’s wedding. Despite the odd weather patterns of rain, clouds, sun, rain again, clouds, then really bright sun, it was a beautifully casual ceremony and Val & Justin’s calm and relaxed mood really set the tone for the day.

I know I often say this, but I really do feel like the lucky one when my couples choose me to capture such an important day in their lives. I feel especially touched when the families of my brides and grooms welcome me with open arms. Fortunately for me, I was seated up front with some of the Roberts family (Val’s side) and they kept me thoroughly entertained throughout the evening. I laughed and laughed and laughed…and felt such love and warmth in the air.

Here are some photos from Val & Justin’s beautiful day.

I love these photos of Val and her dad, Ralph. Val’s dad was honestly beaming the entire day…

I’m a huge dog-lover…so how could I not love how Val & Justin included several family dogs in their wedding ceremony? Justin reaching down during the ceremony to pet, Rusty…

The human *and* canine bridal party…

Cupcakes baked by Val’s long-time friend and Maid of Honour, Peyun…

I loved this about Val & Justin’s wedding!! Instead of the tradition of feeding one another cake (cupcakes, in this case), they decided to fill a basket with the cupcakes and distribute them to all the guests by walking around to all the tables. It wasn’t about them at all…and this kind and selfless gesture really melted my heart…

Wildflower ‘Seeds of Love’ …which I will be planting in my garden…

Val & Justin wanted to take a few minutes out during the evening to take some photos on the beach and I was happy to oblige…

The first dance…

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Val & Justin – I won’t forget your day. Your wedding was a true celebration of all things important and I cannot thank you enough for placing your trust in me to capture it all. The love you share is so beautiful and honest and I am confident that your lives together will be filled with much joy and laughter…and canines :)

Hugs,
cj