Claire & Steven’s Wedding: A Full-Circle Moment Behind the Lens
Merced Wedding Photographer: Some weddings are just different. They’re more than just a job or another date on the calendar—they hold a deeper meaning, a personal history, and a whole lot of nostalgia. Claire and Steven’s wedding on November 6, 2021, was one of those weddings for me.
As a Merced wedding photographer, this one was extra special because Claire isn’t just any bride. She’s my best friend’s little sister—the “baby” of a family I’ve been close to since my freshman year of high school. When I first met Claire, she was just a wide-eyed 9 or 10-year-old, running around the house while my best friend and I navigated our own teenage years. I watched her grow up, and I even had the privilege of shooting her senior photos when she graduated high school. So, when she asked me to be her wedding photographer, I was beyond honored.
To make this story even more full-circle, Claire and Steven are high school sweethearts. Their love story began in those formative teenage years and blossomed into something strong and unwavering. It turns out, the connections ran even deeper—Steven’s brother and I actually went to junior high together! This wedding felt less like a client booking and more like a homecoming.
A Wedding at Home—In More Ways Than One
The wedding took place at Claire’s parents’ house in Merced, making it feel all the more intimate and sentimental. Not only was it the perfect venue for their big day, but it also gave me the perfect excuse to visit my own family while I was in town. Her parents put together an absolutely gorgeous wedding—every detail was thoughtful, personal, and full of warmth.
As a Sonoma County wedding photographer, I love traveling for weddings that hold deep personal meaning, and this one was no exception. The ceremony was beautiful, with Claire absolutely glowing as she walked down the aisle. There were happy tears, heartfelt vows, and a deep sense of love in the air. Capturing those moments felt so special—not just as a photographer but as someone who has watched her journey from childhood to this incredible new chapter of life.
From Photographer to Guest (and Maybe a Keg Stand…)
One of the best parts about this wedding? I actually got to be a guest, too. Once my job was done, I was able to set my camera down, grab a drink, and celebrate this amazing couple properly. And, well… let’s just say the night ended with the photographer (me) doing a keg stand. What can I say? When the work is done, the fun begins!
A Personal & Unforgettable Day
Claire and Steven’s wedding wasn’t just another booking—it was a full-circle moment, a family reunion, and a celebration of love, growth, and lifelong connections. Being chosen to document this day meant the world to me, and I’ll always cherish these photos and memories.
If you’re looking for a Merced wedding photographer or a Sonoma County wedding photographer who values connection and capturing moments that feel as real as they are beautiful, I’d love to be a part of your day.
To Claire and Steven—thank you for letting me be part of your journey, from senior photos to wedding day. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and, of course, love that only grows stronger with time. I’ll always love you both!
