It’s so funny to me, the way our lives work. If you ever question the presence of a living, loving God, simply think back on the way your life has happened over the years you’ve spent on this earth. How many people have you come in contact with by seemingly pure coincidence? What beautiful places have you been? What moments seemed irrelevant, but then had a lasting, altering impact on the course of your life? Maybe you can’t think of any. That’s ok. But I encourage you to reach out to me some time if you truly cannot formulate any good examples, because I promise you, friends, I have plenty for all of us.

I met Alissa Madden freshman year of college, and we didn’t even attend the same school. Alissa was my best friend’s roommate at SUNY Fredonia, by random assignment. Had it not been for Fredonia’s highly-intricate, state-of-the-art compatibility surveys, Andrea and Alissa never would have been placed together. Had I not been friends with Andrea since birth and experienced severe separation anxiety when we parted ways for college, I never would have even had a reason to step foot on Fredonia’s campus. Had Fredonia not invented “Cheesy Friday” at their dining hall, I still may have never stepped foot on the campus. (Kidding… kind of) But seriously, had Alissa and I’s path’s never crossed seven years ago… I may have never had the opportunity to shoot this stunning wedding just last week. When I sit down and really think about it, I know in my heart of hearts that our lives are not intertwined by pure coincidence. Every one we meet has importance and the potential to impact us in some way.

Seven years ago, I wasn’t a photographer and Alissa wasn’t dating Drew Rinaldo. On July 8, 2017, I captured the first day of their forever. Life is so cool.

Anyways- Alissa & Drew said “I do” at the beautiful Chautauqua Suites in Mayville, NY! They were given the most gorgeous weather for their outdoor ceremony. It was so nice having everything at one location on their day; I was able to capture all the getting ready pictures, portraits, ceremony and reception, without even moving my car from its parking space all day. Seriously, that is THE best.

Last June, we shot this sweet couple’s engagement photos, and since then it feels as though time has flown by at the blink of an eye. After receiving their very first email, I remember thinking, “Wow! I can’t believe they are inquiring with me so far in advance!” Now, looking back, it doesn’t seem like a year and a half took any time at all! What an enjoyable experience it was being part of their wedding day. I can’t wait to see where life takes these two from here.

Drew + Alissa: I hope you enjoy your wedding day preview! There are SO many more where these came from. Sending all my love to you, and your beautiful golden pup Mila, as you embark on buying and moving in to your first home. XOXO