Everyone has a story… and that is what makes each one of us unique. I love getting to know about someone’s past because it makes me understand where they are now and it allows me to appreciate them that much more. As photographers, when we know our couple’s story, it give us an emotional aspect that gives us more creativity and meaning behind what we are doing. That’s why we always meet with our couples to hear their love story. When we can feel what our bride and groom are feeling, we can make that emotion come alive in the images. Their story is just as important to us as where their venue will be.
You see, we’ve known our bride, Lindsay, for years… I mean, so many years that I don’t know exactly how long it’s been, but I think gosh…. 15 years maybe? Or more? We don’t know all of the details, but we know their journey has not been easy, but did they conquer through it all like superheroes or what! We know Lindsay, her family, Tony and yes, their precious son, Slade. Unlike other weddings where I could relate to the bride and all of the emotions that she’s going through, with this wedding, I could relate to her son. I experienced this wedding in their son’s perspective because it was as if I relived my mom’s wedding that I attended at his age as well. My mom got married when I was about 7 years old in South Korea. She married a caucasian man who made her so happy… I’ve never seen her that happy in all of my life. This new man who I called, “Daddy” even before I learned English loved me and raised me as his own. He brought me and my mom to America, and we didn’t look like a “typical” family. He and I didn’t look alike at all. We all had different last names. But, we now were a family starting life over together by God’s grace. I couldn’t stop starring at their son because I was so happy for him…. I knew how happy he was for his mom and himself. His genuine smile and joy were so heartwarming that it made me tear up so much, but I had to keep it together because I had a job to do. For a family like this, it’s more than about the bride and the groom. The child has a big part too, and it was so beautiful to me that Lindsay + Tony made it a big day for him as well. Tony even made a vow to his new son and wow… that was amazing. Truly amazing… Can you imagine how loved Slade felt in that moment? What a way to begin being a dad to this boy! Slade, now THEIR son, has a father who unconditionally loves him. For Slade to have someone he can call, “Dad”, and to have a father whose hand he can hold onto, to have someone he can go to when he needs comfort… what more could a child need? Yet, many kids don't, so yes…. I’m so happy for him.
To say that joy overflowed at this wedding is an understatement because ya’ll… it flooded with it! I’ve never been to a wedding where EVERY.SINGLE.FAMILY.MEMBER.AND.GUEST cheered not during the reception, but at the CEREMONY! Ah! And, what an entrance our groom had! He set the trend because I think every groom should do that for sure! Love that he’s so fun and confident! And Lindsay… oh, Lindsay… are you kidding me, Lindsay? Girl, you looked…. there’s no word, seriously, no word. You’ve always been beautiful to me, but girl on your wedding day, it was so beyond that. Your hair was glorious, your dress was such a perfect fit and style for you, your makeup made your stunning eyes pop… shall I go on? Together, you guys looked HAWT! WOW! Your family was so fun and full of life… your bridesmaids and groomsmen were seriously amazing, helpful and FUN! Thank you for inviting us to be part of such a celebration. We are so grateful that you and your family trust us and always have been so encouraging every time we meet, even online. If you only knew what those words to do us… really, THANK YOU!
But, all of this wouldn’t have been possible without the One who truly loves us all and for that, we give Him all the glory. God is good, isn’t He? It says in Romans 8:28 - “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” And, Lindsay + Tony’s day and their lives are a proof of this. The reason why we can trust in the Lord is because He keeps His promises - He keeps His Word. Every single one of them. What blessed assurance! Jesus, thank you for your grace! Thank you for this beautiful new family. We pray that your hands are always upon them, that you continue to bless them and lead them in the way they should go.
Lindsay + Tony, we love you guys… you’re so precious! It was an honor to photograph your big day. We hope that you love every memory that was captured. That these images will allow you to relive every moment over and over for the rest of your lives. We can’t wait to see the impact that you make as a married couple. You guys have and will do some incredible things. Be blessed!
With much love,
Craig + Unchong
