Tori and Nick sealed their hearts and committed with an “I do” last Monday, on the first day of Fall. It was such a beautiful ceremony right in front of their home in Scottsville.

They are in love, and love is a beautiful, and fearful feeling. It causes us to lose control of a part of our heart that has been sealed away with walls of protection. But when it happens, our steps bounce a little differently, and our eyes shine more deeply. That’s what I saw with these two. When I watched them together, I could see that they feel the joy of hope, of dreams, and a renewal of life. When you face the future together, side by side, and dream the same dream, it’s a blessed thing.

Little Emerson, with his big eyes framed with curly lashes, ran around oblivious to the significance of this day in his life too. He smiled and laughed, moved his head and shoulders with amazing rhythm to the music, and loved the attention from his family. He had no idea that the two parents who love him every day were promising to share their hearts, dreams, and this beautiful child for the years to come. But everyone else realized the significance, and I could see the joy in their eyes too.

I love that Tori and Nick have bought the Massey home. They have brought the excitement of a new marriage and young family to this amazing place. Even though months of deep renovation has brought new life to their home, it has retained a stately character and charm. That’s the best of both worlds.  When a family commits to sharing their world in a home that has already witnessed a generation of laughter and tears, its a special renewing of the joy of life. I can imagine that this home will again see and hear the laughter, feel the patter of both little and big feet, and sigh with the hard times of life that we all face at times.  And most of all, this home will witness the memories of another generation.

Tori and Nick, I was honored to photograph your wedding. My hope for you is that you retain the beauty of September 23 in your hearts forever. Life won’t always be easy; curve balls fly at us all sometimes. But my prayer is that you hold hands forever and remember the joy of this wedding. You are a beautiful couple and I hope all your dreams come true! Love and blessings, Pat