You know it is going to be a fun engagement session when you start at an awesome Irish Pub in downtown New Haven. Liz and James really began their relationship at Anna Liffey’s, so it was only suiting to start their engagement session there, too! I learned all about Liz’s favorite drink, root beer vodka and club soda with some firsthand exposure (thanks for the cocktails, my friends!). Anyway, I have known Liz for a really loooooooong time so this was an extra special engagement session for me.
Liz was a part of what I call my old life – when up until around 2002, I was working in a very corporate job in which I performed well, but never enjoyed. She is a creative spirit herself and I think she really understood my suffering – though we never discussed it in so many words. She knew that I needed a break from the grind and we would regularly enjoy conversations that had NOTHING to do with our work. We each weathered through some difficult breakups, life changes and frustrations as we really grew into the people we are today. It was one of my greatest joys to leave that job and re-gain my creative soul, but it saddened me not to have my daily office visits from my friend Liz. And, as life got busier and busier, I found we hadn’t seen each other in years.
So, when I got a call from Liz about photographing her wedding, it was exciting in a lot of ways. Firstly, I couldn’t be more excited for my friend to have finally found “the one.” I could tell from her description of James that he is the perfect partner for her. Secondly, it meant a chance to re-connect with someone whose friendship I truly valued and missed. It was so incredible to watch Liz and James interact together. James really loves my friend. And, for that, I really love James! Of course, James has other qualities (besides merely loving Liz) that make him wonderful, too! But, that IS my favorite quality!
I can not wait for your wedding! It is right around the corner! So, until we convene again for another root beer vodka and club (yes, thanks Liz, for I am now hooked, too), enjoy your engagement photos. I hope that I was able to really capture the laughter and the joy between you two.