A Vashon Island Wedding at Lavender Hill Farm | Taylor + Eddie

I've held onto this wedding for almost 2 years. Taylor, the bride, is one of my dearest friends, and didn't know how to put my feelings about this wedding into words. In May of 2016 I spent several days with Taylor and Eddie, who travelled from Austin, Texas to Seattle, Washington, to have a laid-back, intimate wedding. They chose Lavender Hill Farm on Vashon Island as the location, and it quickly became a new favorite spot of all family and guests involved. I think we will all hold this island and farm in a special place in our hearts for the rest of our lives. I was honored to be there both as a photographer and friend, to witness two amazing people come together in marriage. Taylor is such a special person in my life that I felt few men would be truly worthy of her, but when I met Eddie (and photographed their proposal), I knew she had found the best possible partner for her. With great joy, I share their wedding story.

When I think back to this day, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of happiness, but also calm and peace. Everything seemed to flow together so easily and naturally, which is what you want on any wedding day, but especially when going out of your way to plan an intimate, laid-back celebration away from home. We all woke up on the farm that morning and enjoyed breakfast together before slowly getting ready for the main event. Eddie and a few friends set up the chairs, Taylor's sister did her hair. There was no sense of rush, and even though it rained a little, that didn't seem to phase anyone. Taylor and Eddie's main focus of the day was on their ceremony, so they took the time to add special personal touches. Taylor had prepared a song with her cousin, who also happened to be their officiant. She sang in Spanish for Eddie's mom, leaving no dry eyes in attendance. They both wrote their own vows. At one moment Eddie was so overcome with emotion that he could not finish his vows out loud, so Taylor held him as he whispered them in her ear. We still do not know what he said, but it was more emotional and touching not knowing. After the beautiful and moving ceremony, everyone went upstairs to the house for dinner on the porch. At each place was a personalized letter from Taylor and a hand-made leather keychain from Eddie. Every guest was left feeling so special and important. A heartfelt ceremony surrounded by nearest and dearest family and friends, followed by a delicious dinner, was the perfect recipe for an intimate wedding. Taylor and Eddie's vision was executed flawlessly, and I learned from this wedding that couples should always follow their own hearts on their wedding day and make the day truly their own.