Raquel and Pete’s Love-Filled West Hartford Backyard Wedding in Connecticut

The world is such a scary place. I was going to qualify and say, ‘right now,’ but I think the truth is that the world has always been a scary place and perhaps the context merely changes.

Sometimes, in the midst of all the scariness, I ask myself: what am I doing, posting photos of people smiling and hugging and kissing on Instagram?

I don’t have a perfect answer for that. But something did hit me last night.

The photos I take give me meaning. The people I work with, the love and community and tradition and JOY I have the privilege of capturing–the moments I get to memorialize for the most amazing humans–give some meaning to the straight-up dangerous chaos around us all.

It makes sense that I’m thinking deep thoughts on the day I’m sharing @ragmorales and Pete’s wedding.

I think our first conversation lasted two hours. It seemed like we talked about everything. There was an immediate affinity as they opened up about their history, their reasons for getting married, and how they work as a team and couple. They were candid, clear-headed, and down-to-earth. They were smart and kind and so generous of spirit.

They were good to each other. I wanted to know them.

They told me they wanted a wedding that was an intimate reflection of who they were and what they value. This included bringing in traditions from both sides, keeping things simple and beautiful in their backyard, and supporting small businesses.

It rained that day, but only at certain times…and everyone (and I mean EVERYONE) pitched in to help when the clouds chose to open up. It was dreamy and fun, whimsical and imperfect in the ways that always create the best memories. And when everyone crowded together on their porch during the most torrential of the downpours, we got a little photo magic.

Thanks, guys.

If you’re looking for amazing mobile food and liquor, look no further than Craftbird Food Truck and The Liquorist MD. And Averi Jade Rentals helped these two create a gorgeous haven in their backyard.