Ben & Rachel Getting Married

This weekend I had the distinct pleasure of photographing one of the most beautiful weddings I have ever attended. The lucky couple - my long time friend Rachel Register and her new husband (and my new friend) Benjamin Guyer. The place - Mandi's Chapel in Live Oak, FL. The weather - could not have been more perfect! For me as the photographer it was an all day event, but never did it feel like I was doing any actual work (probably because I have not yet started the long task of editing...). On the day of I arrived early so I could get some photos of the grounds and chapel and I was fortunate in the fact that I was very familiar with the area. In fact, back in high school, Rachel and I would often attend retreats there with our church groups so it holds a special place in our hearts and minds. Especially Mandi's Chapel. This wonderful little building is built entirely out of wood and all the structure is exposed making it simple yet complex at the same time. It was also just recently ranked by the Florida Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in the top 5 of the top 100 buildings of Florida. Every church retreat Rachel and I attended would end with a ceremony held in Mandi's Chapel, and every time we left we would eagerly await our next visit. In this case it was to celebrate the marriage of two very important and loving individuals. I am so happy for my newly married friends and for what I'm sure will be a most wonderful and beautiful life together. I know they will look back on their wedding day with glorious memories and I am very honored to have been the one tasked with capturing those memories. I wish them both the very best and want them to know that the photos will be done soon and if they need anything - all they have to do is ask. In the mean time - Keep it REAL!