Last weekend I had the pleasure of doing something that I don’t often do. I shoot weddings, portraits, editorial work and all sorts of other things, but I don’t often get to shoot anniversaries. Lew and Mary have been married for fifty years and because they didn’t have a real reception at their wedding in 1965, they decided that they wanted to throw a party with all of their closest friends and family. I was lucky enough to be asked to photograph the event at the beautiful Mandalay Beach resort in Oxnard.
Photographing weddings is a wonderful experience. You’re seeing families come together and new love and everyone is so excited for this unknown future. But, I’ve got to say, being able to spend an evening with a couple who has made a marriage work for fifty years was even more satisfying. We all know that relationships aren’t easy and that they take work and compromise, and even sacrifice. I can’t tell you how humbling it was to work with a couple who has made it work, no matter what circumstances they were dealt with.
The evening was filled with laughter, tears, family, dancing, lots of love and some inspirational words from Lew and Mary. It was my absolute pleasure to be a part of it and I am wishing them so much happiness on their Golden Anniversary!
Here are a few captured moments from their Hawaiian themed party: