Lithia Florida Wedding Photographer | Jayson & Ashley, Married.

It’s the unexpected things in life that make it interesting.  The twists, and turns–the near and far–the wanted and unwanted–beautiful and ugly.  And it’s the hardships, struggles, and further determination that make moments SO much more exquisite, cherished, and special than they might have been.  This is one of those stories, a beautiful one.  It’s a life of trials, hard decisions, and above all triumph that led Jayson to Ashley, and Ashley to Jay.  And I couldn’t be happier for them.

They balance each other out pretty perfectly.  He’s the rough and tumble type.  She’s not.  And Ashley’s daughter Kayla has brought Jayson into a whole new world of love.  She’s their daughter now–and she’s was SO excited to become Kayla BENOIT!  They are a beautiful family of three, and they are so in love.  Through Ashley’s tears of joy and Jayson’s ear-to-ear grin they enjoyed a day devoted to themselves, and they deserved it.  It was a simple affair with, as the minister pointed out,

“God’s sanctuary as decoration.”

I loved that the meaning wasn’t lost in overdone hair, makeup, decor, and details. The setting itself was almost as gorgeous as Ashley, and the love that surrounded them filled the grounds nearly palpably.   It was perfect.

Jayson is my big brother.  I was SO excited when finally after convincing them I didn’t mind they agreed to let me capture their day.  I was relieved it was family and excited about the location, thinking “psht this will be a breeze.”  I figured I’d get to do what I love around the people I love, for people I love and it would be a walk in the park.  I . WAS. WRONG.  It’s funny the way emotions work.  Granted, I cry at nearly everyone’s wedding I photograph, but this one was different.  I found myself needing to turn away to compose myself, getting caught up in the moment, and making silly mistakes I don’t normally. People, it is HARD photographing someones wedding whom you love dearly.  When it came to post processing I found myself being hypercritical, knowing everyone I cared about would see these images. It took me longer than normal too..amongst the tears and revival of all the moments.  In the end, it all worked out and I learned a lot about myself, my brother, and my work.  I’m happy with the way they turned out, and being who I am will always feel I could have done better…but we move on.

Jayson, Ashley, and Kayla I love you so much and I am so excited for your futures together.  Jayson I am SO proud of your will, hard work and determination and I am happy you are finally where you deserve to be. Thank you guys for letting me preserve your day , a memory we will all cherish.

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