I got a wonderful call last year from some old friends from NY. It seems that the sweet girl that we met back when she was 13 and became our kids’ babysitter was planning her wedding. Shelby was in and out of our house for 6 years as our kids grew up. She knew them well and was one of few sitters back then who was up for the challenge of our daughter. I captured Shelby’s senior portraits shortly before we moved from NY to TX and we’ve kept in touch through Facebook. Our family has watched her life unfold: travel, college, work, parties. A while back we noticed a handsome young man in more and more of the photos. Shelby’s signature smile was ever present with this young man by her side and soon a new pup (Gromit) was added to the mix.

We loved watching all of their fun so it wasn’t surprising to see their engagement announced. It was surprising and very flattering however to get the request to be a part of their special day and photograph their wedding. There was no need to ask twice–knowing Shelby and her family I knew it would be a very special experience. The details soon followed: an afternoon wedding outside on the St. Lawrence river in upstate NY.  Shelby’s family has had a camp up in Clayton forever and the small town, relaxed vibe suited the couple perfectly. Clayton is in the 1,000 Islands region and it’s the kind of place where you won’t find a “chain” store or franchise restaurant. Everything is “local” and almost instantly when you arrive, you feel the pace of life slow waaaay down.

The weather gave everyone a bit of a bother for sometime as the rains kept coming and the river kept rising. Docks were under water and actions were taken for flooding. I have to say that people who plan outdoor weddings have a special kind of spirit. I don’t think I have it in me. The forecast showed their wedding day as the only day of sunshine that week so we all crossed our fingers that it held true. The night before, as we arrived into the 1,000 Islands area, it was dry and the layer of clouds provided a spectacular sunset. At the hotel check-in we received a hospitality bag from the Squire’s with goodies wrapped inside a sand bag–the kind filled with sand and used to keep flood waters at bay. A little humor never hurts.

When morning came, so did the sun and everyone let out a big sigh of relief. You’ll see in the images that follow what a special day it was. Casual, intimate, easy…and kisses at sunset!