Angel Fire, New Mexico
A few months ago, N + L reached out to us about shooting their elopement in New Mexico, and we were over the moon. We met the Garrow's at church in Keller, TX (when we lived in a physical place prior to our tiny home on wheels). We first met Nathan through a life group where we bonded over board games & photography. N +L met several years ago but didn't cross paths again until 8 months ago through close friends. What I love most about their story is their decision for a short engagement because they knew they wanted to spend their lives together as one.
Short engagements often call for more intimate ceremonies, which we LOVE. It was perfect timing that we recently announced our desire to shoot elopements + adventure photography sessions, so they knew we were perfect for their big day!
(Photo is of N + L with their best friends that connected them again. Jordan officiated their beautiful ceremony with Hope + Baby K as their witnesses.)
One of my favorite parts of my job is preplanning with the bride. I love preplanning because I get to take time to set up an in-person, or virtual, date with the bride and/or groom. We chat and I listen to their plans for their dream day. I strive for the couple to feel like I am serving them the best I can.
So the four of us talked over Chili's after their engagement session about all the beautiful details and what was truly important for them on that day.
When Saturday November 6, 2021 finally arrived, we spent the morning on a long walk around a gorgeous lake with N + L. We enjoyed the casual conversations, talked about expectations for the day, as well as scouted out for locations for their portraits after the ceremony.
(Photo is Nathan photographing wildlife at the lake near our cabin).
As the happy couple began to get ready, Codee and I captured some special shots throughout the day (including all those beautiful details). After they were ready, they decided to do a first look + read letters that they wrote to each other prior to the ceremony. This moment was the SWEETEST between the two of them. Reading those notes really helped calm all the nerves and for them both to be present with each other.
With hearts warm and tears already coming down, we were met with a gorgeous golden glow during their ceremony at the cabin. They prayed, shared communion, spoke their promises to each other, exchanged rings, and became one with a stunning first kiss.💕
We then raced to the lake for the most amazing portraits. Made it back home just in time, before dark, for a toast + cookie cake cutting. We all changed into comfy clothes and enjoyed time next to the campfire, with no cameras, for some quality time drinking mulled wine. IT WAS THE BEST DAY EVER!
This experience has only reassured us of our loved for couples + young love. We pray for many more elopements to come. But more importantly, we congratulate the happy couple. Thank you both for allowing us to be a part of your big day. We could not be happier for y'all and wish you nothing short of happiness and love in your marriage.
CONGRATS MR. + MRS. GARROW!
much love, talk soon
Sarah
