Leslie and Mark were married on May 14 with their ceremony and reception at The Rose Room in Boise. Many of the couples I get the opportunity to work with are from out of town, so we don't get the chance to meet in person. While this was the case with Leslie and Mark, they were both at ease with me right away. I was welcomed with a warm sweet smile from Leslie, who was seemingly relaxed and ready for this profound day for her and Mark. It was a joy to walk into their getting ready environment with the hustle and bustle of bridesmaids dressing, the final touches being applied to hair and make-up, and the laughter from the boys downstairs as they played a game of pool (because that's what dudes do-- forget getting ready until the last minute). The bridesmaids were all done up in their gorgeous navy blue dresses, each with their own strap creation and they all welcomed me into the commotion. I ventured downstairs to capture the pool table merriment and Mark seemed just as at ease as Leslie. The whole group was welcoming, playful and fun, you would never guess we had just met.

One of the sweetest moments of the day was the first look for Leslie and her father. Not everyone does this, whether for the sake of time or lack of planning, but I love when there is a private moment for a father to see his baby girl all decked out. That moment when he prepares to give her away; to let her go in part, but to embrace her with a new, stronger bond. When he realizes his little girl isn’t so little and so many memories of her life are recalled in a moment of joy and tenderness. This was that moment for these two. It was intimate. It was raw father/daughter emotion. It was perfect. I cried a few tears behind the lens, remembering when my father gave me away: his little girl becoming a wife.

After that beautiful minute, it was time for the first look between soon-to-be husband and wife! We moved to the Boise Botanical Gardens; which is dripping with breathtaking flowers, greenery, and character. We did the first look, couples photos, family and group photos around the grounds and had a blast. The gardens are right up against an old penitentiary, which is not exactly what you would think to be warm and fuzzy for a wedding day, but it packs a punch of creativity and diversity for photos. Once the photos were wrapped up, we headed to The Rose Room to take a breather and prepare for the "I-dos.”

After a heartfelt and laughter-filled ceremony, it was time to party, eat good food and then tear up the dance floor- which is EXACTLY what they did. It was a Partaaayyy!! Mark’s dance with his mother was super cute and sweet. They didn't do the traditional slow dance, they twisted their little hearts out and took the house down with their performance! It was not a boring moment. The dance floor opened, it was filled, and they didn't leave it until the last call. It was a workout just watching the bride and groom and capturing them in the moment. I love it!! So stinking fun to be a part of that energy and joy.

They wrapped up the night by lining the sidewalk with friends holding sparklers and a Rolls Royce....talk about a Hollywood exit!

Mark and Leslie, your wedding was perfection from beginning to end. There were so many special moments filled with joy, and the whole event was a blast until the end. Thank you for trusting in me in planning from afar and giving me the opportunity to share in such an important day for you. Many blessings to you both!