I think the sweetest thing in the world is to be surrounded by people who love you. When I photographed Shannon and TJ’s backyard garden wedding on Labor Day weekend, it was so obvious that they like that too — they were surrounded by genuine and wonderful people who support them, because they are genuine and wonderful people. It has been such a treat working with them for the last several months.

This wedding was not only really personal and touching, but every detail was really beautiful. From the bouquets in vibrant pink and purple (which Shannon’s mom made herself) to the pink-and-purple candy bar and the bridesmaid dresses, nothing was forgotten.

Shannon is a really beautiful girl, and she made such a beautiful bride. She was so calm on her wedding day, not worrying about the threat of rain from dark clouds or anything else.

These are the Jersey boys. TJ is from New Jersey, so most of his groomsmen came out from the east coast to be with him. They were loads of fun — I sat next to them at the rehearsal dinner.

Shannon’s bridesmaids were awesome too — they had serious attitude. Who could blame them, though, in those fabulous dresses?

I love the look on Shannon’s face in the above photo — I think she was getting heckled by her bridesmaids behind me!

Aren’t they a great-looking couple? Check back tomorrow for more details and scenes from their wedding!