Bare with me, because this is a long one... but for those who stick it out, my hope is that you understand a little more about what this wedding photography thing all means to me.

Lauren and Leif's wedding carried an extra special meaning that made it not only a more interesting and beautiful story to document, but also a moving human experience that further authenticated the purpose (in my opinion) of tying your life to someone else's. I'm talking about what comes next... once the cake is gone and the flowers have wilted. For many, it's a honeymoon or some other adventure... maybe followed by purchasing a home, or a career move of some sort. It's kind of crazy that weddings always seem to happen during the busiest phase of life. Eventually though, for those who are fortunate enough, and for those whose hopes are in alignment with what the universe has planned, the plot thickens with the prospect of new life and the start of a family. For Lauren and Leif. News of their miracle broke just a couple of short months prior to their wedding. Amazing! I can't think of two people more deserving of such an incredible blessing!

For the wedding, this meant that all the usual excitement and emotion surrounding these types of celebrations hung in the air a little thicker on this day than most. It wafted around like a dreamy haze and seeped into the hearts of all in attendance. Everyone knew why they were there; to celebrate and support their loved ones on the start of their adventure in marriage. But there was also this powerful sense of something else, something greater than the love between two people. 

In the end, everything you'd expect on a wedding day happened in perfect synchrony. Words were spoken, promises were made, flowers were thrown and gifts were given... But I'm willing to bet that no gift received was more special or more appreciated than what Lauren and Leif have given their family and friends. The feeling of being a part of something more than a perfect wedding day... and the reminder that what comes next (whatever life brings) is infinity more exciting.

Side note, I don't usually make a big deal about the venue... But the Collingrove Homestead in the Barossa Valley deserves a special mention. The character and beauty of this place is more than suitable for an occasion with this level of emotional weight. The property is quintessentially South Australian in it's raw country charm. A few days after the wedding, the surrounding region was a blaze as the deadly bush fire season hit early. I hope everyone at Collingrove and the rest of the Barossa managed to stay safe, and does so for the rest of the season. 

Lastly, To Lauren and Leif, It's not often you leave a wedding more excited then when you arrived (and I mean that in the best possible way). I hope these photographs do your story justice, and serve your family well for years to come. Congratulations, my friends!