I photographed Lizzy and Jess’s wedding in November, and it’s one I’ve thought about often since then. In the weeks leading up to the day, there was some uncertainty about whether Lizzy’s dad, Bruce, would be able to attend. He was very sick, and it wasn’t clear how he would be feeling or what would be possible. Like so many families navigating times like this, they hoped for the best while preparing just in case he couldn’t be there in person.
Bruce did in fact attend the wedding! Yay!
Not only did he attend—he lived that day. He laughed. He celebrated. He danced! He was surrounded by the people he loved most. And during the reception, he gave a toast that I will never forget. It was emotional, warm, and deeply genuine—not just to his daughter and her new wife, but to his entire family. It was one of those moments where the room felt still, and everyone was fully present. I remember tearing up behind my camera. This doesn’t happen every day!
Just before Christmas, I learned that Bruce had passed away. My heart sank. And at the same time, I felt immense gratitude that he had that day with his family and these moments are preserved in photos from the wedding. Lizzy and Jess are two clients I truly adore. Photographing their wedding wasn’t just a job—it was an honor.
Being trusted with moments like these, especially when time is fragile is something I never take lightly. This is why what I do is so meaningful to me. Weddings aren’t just about beautiful details and gazebos and sunsets . They’re about people. About showing up for each other. About moments that can never be recreated. Sometimes you don’t realize how important a photograph is until it becomes something you hold onto forever.
I am so deeply sorry for Lizzy and her family’s loss. And I am so grateful that Bruce was there—fully present, fully himself—on a day filled with love. These moments matter. Every single one.
