Saying I do-beauty spot Edition
Life has a funny way of making connections for us and I am so grateful for all those I have made, and those I expect to keep making in my time with and without my camera present. As I lean into the things that reward me the most, I keep finding myself loving my work, more and more. Nature has always been a constant in my life, and it shows it face in my work often. Especially the images the world never sees. The work that I make for me. The work printed in my office.
“When I admire the wonder of a sunset or the beauty of the moon, my soul expands in worship of the Creator”- Mahatma Gandi
I was recently asked to photograph the elopement for Kailea and Zane, who I met as they accompanied their friends, Summer and Tony while I was photographing them last year. Full circle stuff. When Kailea and I started the conversation, she mentioned the plan was to get married at the court house then find somewhere nice for photos. I am thrilled to say that, plans changed, as they often do. She mentioned needing an option where her grandparents could get to as they were to attend and I fall short on words to describe how beautiful her grandparents are. In their connection, their love for one another, and their love for Kailea. ( Im sure they love Zane too lol ) It was a perfect evening in Unicoi as I drove through Rock Creek climbing Unaka Mountain to ultimately arrive early at our destination, the Beauty Spot. Having been here many times in the past both for work, and for pleasure I had no need to be as early as I was, but I will never pass up a few quite moments alone, in places where the sky touches the earth. I posted up with my book ( These Silent Woods) and disconnected from society while I waited for my people to arrive. The images below where the start of the adventure into forever for this amazing couple, and their friends and family. A total party of 12 if you count the minister and his girlfriend. Small and perfect!
As we chatted and devised a loose plan the rain decided to join us. An uninvited guest, but one I will always greet with a smile once they have made an appearance. A light sprinkle was enough to don the umbrellas to keep our couple dry but sheer minutes after we reached the top ( a lovely albeit short walk for those who may never have been) the rain said it’s farewells and left us with a remarkable sunset cascading over the distant Blue Ridge Mountains. The ceremony was lovely, and working in remote locations gives me so much more access to angles, and point of views. I was able to maneuver anywhere I wish without being a distraction. The couple were swept up in their adoration for one another as they vocalized the commitment to their person. It is always an honor to capture moments like this, but even more so in locations that beg for our attention. I will leave you with a few more images below and please come back, as I plan to create another entry soon discussing tips to plan for such days and for your elopement with me.
Iron Market Coffee Co.
Do you love coffee? Do you love helping people? Well today’s blog post is especially for you. Grab your favorite coffee mug and let’s get to it. PSA- If you love coffee you may need a bib going forward. How delicious is this?
I mean that contrast from light to shadows is well, my favorite.
A little back story before I drop the other images below which is becoming my go to design for this blog. Maybe Ill mix it up or maybe I won’t. Keep tuning in to find out. Ok, coffee but not just in coffee. We are talking about Haitian Blue by Iron Market Coffee. My good friend Robert Brown messaged me on Facebook recently and asked if I would be interested in trying this new coffee he and a friend of his is selling, and DUH of course I do. I love coffee. Just ask Silva Coffee, or Dangerous But Good as I have also shot for them. I like-a-the coffee. He said he would bring a sample to work and I could run by and grab it, so Atlas and I did just that. It is a very smooth coffee. I am no expert here but you will have to grab a bag and see what I mean for yourself. The website can be found HERE and you should also click HERE and get to Instagram and tell them I sent you. I also wanted to give you the reason behind this brand and as I started to compose this entry, I realized I am not the person to do so. I messages Robert immediately and asked that he give me the reason in his own words.
“Travis Gouge and I have both gone to Haiti on Mission trips and developed a passion for the region and wanted to do more to help. Travis originally had the idea and brought me in knowing I had a passion for coffee and Haiti.”
The back of the bag reads:
“The Iron Market in Port Au Prince stands tall as a symbol of hope for the people of Haiti. Our mission at Iron Market Coffee is to provide our customers with the freshest and best coffee possible while also helping to give hope to a country in desperate need of basic necessities.
We purchase the beans directly from Haiti, which provides needed income for coffee farmers. The beans are roasted and individually bagged for every customer. All profits from the coffee are given directly back to help provide food and education for children in Haiti.”
The money they raise from the sale of this coffee, goes to help those that need it, directly in Haiti. See, amazing coffee and an even better cause. Why buy coffee to line the pockets of some corporation when you can actually help someone who genuinely needs some help. Worse case you try and it and you don’t love it as much as we do, then mail me the rest, and you still helped someone and that is something to be proud of too. Seriously I will drink it LOL
Ok photos are what I do and what I do best so lets put this keyboard to bed. Photo time:
