Shannon and Dan Swannanoa Styled Shoot

My face hurt. I mean it seriously, truly hurt. We had been laughing with Shannon and Dan for so long that the smile was actually causing me pain. After composing ourselves for more photos Shannon and Dan stood staring into one another’s eyes. Their joy brought a smile to their lips. I encouraged them to enjoy a quiet moment together. We had been having so much fun. Capturing their newlywed love and joyful personalities was easy-peasy. As we enjoyed our quiet moment, my sights were set on something. Something that showcases a couple’s love and fidelity.

As Shannon held onto Dan’s lapel, I raised my camera and locked focus on her rings. Just 6 months ago they stood before family and friends vowing to be faithful and true. In good times and in bad. In sickness and in health. Until death parts them. Those of us lucky enough to experience the joys of a new relationship will remember the feeling of excitement and butterflies. How awesome it is to love someone and have that feeling reciprocated. But all of that joy can’t even compare with the joy and freedom that comes with the commitment of marriage. Freedom to love without the fear of the other person changing their mind. We were able to see Shannon and Dan living in the joy of their newly-made commitment as we spent time with them during our styled shoot at the beautiful Swannanoa. Their joy and love made capturing their photos so unique, special, and, quite frankly, easy!

Shannon and Dan, we still consider ourselves newlyweds even as we approach three years of marriage. After seeing your joy and liveliness, we realized how many ways our marriage’s novelty has been transformed into normalcy. Not normal in a boring sense, but normal in a “my life is complete with you at my side, wouldn’t have it any other way” sense. We’ve experienced great joys in our marriage, just as you will! We’ve also caused one another great pain, because we are humans who sin and fall short. Through it all we are learning to be humble, self-sacrificial, patient, and compassionate. We are learning the importance of our own rings, and we’d never want to live without them! Best of luck in your marriage, and PLEASE let’s hang out soon!