I love weddings. I love the thrill of little moments when time stands still. I love first looks and meaningful vows.

But more than I love weddings, I love marriage. I love the time-tested, vow-practicing, intimate partnership that is marriage. Being a witness to the details of a wedding is an honor; observing the beauty of a marriage is a privilege.

I've known Lisa for about 10 years. We've gone to the same church, been part of small groups together, and enjoyed a friendship based on our love of God, shoes, and Lin Manuel.

When I met Michael about 3 years ago it was one of their first dates and it was (conveniently) at a mutual friends' wedding. The first moments I spoke to Michael I could tell how smitten he was with Lisa and I could see a peaceful joy in Lisa that was new and wonderful. After our friends' wedding I asked Lisa when she and Michael were going to get married. She smiled and said they'd already talked about it and she wanted me to take the pictures. When you know, you know.

The wedding was all set for April 18, 2020 when the global pandemic shut down the possibility of so many dreams that Michael and Lisa had been planning. They chose to continue with the wedding, in their living room, with just a paster - and hundreds of their friends on Zoom. It was not what they pictured but they knew their marriage wasn't based on a day, it was based on forever.

On April 18, 2021, though droves of friends and family wouldn't be able to attend their wedding/anniversary due to the continuing pandemic, their closest 11 people were able to join them for a day that was intimate and meaningful. It was a celebration of their first year of marriage and of their wedding day. It is a privilege to watch Michael and Lisa express the love they have for one another on their first day of marriage and on their 365th day of marriage.

Lisa and Michael chose the Melhorn Manor for the backdrop of their special day. It is a gorgeous venue in Mt. Joy, PA. Jessica & Allory Melhorn were dedicated hosts.

Getting Ready

Lisa dreamt of her "First Look" with Michael for a very long time and I think it was worth the wait. Like every wedding I have had the honor to capture, the first look always provides my favorite images!

First Look

Because this day was unlike any other we had the opportunity to do something I've never done: a family first look! I feel like in every wedding we should all clap and cheer when we see the bride and groom - it was a lovely moment!

Family First Look

Often, people say the first year of marriage is the hardest. At the beginning of the pandemic Michael and Lisa got married and the world was on lockdown. They went from going to work every day to working remotely and living with each other 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for an entire year. And they're better for it. Their love is deep and they know each other better now then most couples know each other in the first 5 years of marriage (maybe more)! Their smiles and glances tell the truth of their love.

Formal Portraits

At the reception Michael and Lisa shared their vows, had their first dance, enjoyed some toasts, and, of course, cut the cake! It was a sweet ending to a perfect day.

Reception

Michael and Lisa,

Though nothing was what you'd originally planned, it was still perfect, wasn't it? Your marriage is beautiful and I feel so privileged to know you both and to have had the opportunity to capture your special day.

With much love,

Meggan