“We’ve been together for 8 years and we’re extremely excited that we can now officially get married.” This was our initial email from Casey when he inquired about his wedding a few months ago. We’ve received this email a few times from different couples since the Supreme Court ruling of 2015 and each time, it brings a smile to our faces to know that same sex couples everywhere can not only marry, but do so with joy and excitement because it’s of the historic ruling to legalize marriage for everyone.
Josh and Casey have a love for the outdoors and it was perfect for them to exchange vows high atop Mt. Hood for their Silcox Hut wedding. When I say “high atop”, I mean 7,000 feet to be exact! This meant a snowcat ride from Timeberline Lodge to the hut, which was equally treacherous and hilarious at the same time. Silcox Hut is a charming venue nestled in the snow and while we all hoped for a bluebird sky backdrop, it was late April and we ended up with a complete white out blizzard instead! Which only made for a more adventurous and memorable experience. Plus y’all know we love a good challenge…
But what we really felt privileged to capture was Josh and Casey’s incredible bond and how much it meant to them to be together. There were tears getting ready, tears during family portraits, tears during mother son dances, and of course a few tears (and laughs) during speeches. It makes it sound like all we did was cry, but we couldn’t help but love the outpouring of emotion from this couple and their families.
There is a popular phrase/hashtag/tag line going around that says, “Love is love.” And as photographers, we are lucky enough to document the true meaning of these words. Week after week, we are given the opportunity to photograph weddings for couples of every orientation, race, gender, socio economic class, religious or political view, and so on. And each wedding is different. Yet the same. The traditions usually fall into the same flow…ceremony, speeches, reception, etc. The venues change. The people change. The colors, design and vision may change. But the love…is love. Pure, raw, celebratory, energetic and unwavering love. And THAT is why we do what we do.
Coincidentally, I’m writing this blog post while listening to Josh and Casey’s first dance song and am instantly brought back to their wedding and how happy it makes us that we were able to capture their love. Thanks you two and CONGRATULATIONS!
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