MELODY + GLAD | WEDDING

it would be impossible for me to convey the feelings i had while photographing and working on this wedding.  i think what makes it so difficult is the fact that it was so much more than just a wedding– in a way it was a reunion.  it brought together so many wonderful, friendly, and fun familiar faces that my heart just kind of exploded with joy.  i typically try not to write a lot… but with this post that may be difficult.

some years ago, when i left Kansas and came out to the East Coast, it was at the invitation of a beautiful church community outside the Poconos.  it was there in the little town of Bangor that i ended up growing a lot, alongside some amazing friends who loved and encouraged me.  if you recognize some of the faces, it’s because so many of them have supported and encouraged me in my adventure into life, art, and photography.  i’ve happily photographed many of them.  because these people love– and they do love very well.

of course, this isn’t about them, neither is it about me.  it’s about a couple named Melody and Glad.  Melody was a name i heard often in this crazy community.  she was the daughter of a family who at a really young age, had packed up and moved to Ethiopia to love people and to make a difference in the world and the community she encountered there.  while in Africa, she ran a non-profit helping a group of young ladies, she taught english, and eventually she met and fell in love with Dereje (Glad).  i never asked how Glad came to get his nickname, but between his warm and friendly personality and his big smiles, i can probably guess.  when i finally got the chance to meet him, i knew he was well-suited to her.  they both have big hearts and a whole lot of love for one another.

so we all came together.  my muse, Kim the Cottage Gardener outdid herself (as always) on the flowers and decorations that were nothing short of magical.  Peter Mackey memorialized the day with beautiful video while wearing a vest and khakis that completely matched my own (we looked like we’d planned it that way!)  my close friend Michael came from Iowa with his family to perform a touching service.  and whether it was hair and makeup, cookies, or even the emcees at the reception, everywhere i turned there were these people i knew and loved coming together to create something special for Melody and for Glad.  we were at this beautiful intersection of love and lives coming together.  in that way it was a perfect wedding… and i’m not lying when i say that i think that day i caught a glimpse of heaven.