We’ve loved this amazing couple since before we ever met them. Seriously! Hiding behind a bush at the edge of a small garden, Eileen and I (but mostly Eileen!) couldn’t help but start crying as we witnessed Jamie’s surprise proposal to Alysondria unfold in front of our camera lenses. Actually, the proposal was a surprise to Alysondria — but not to us. Jamie, who is an absolute hopeless romantic when it comes to Alysondria (though he may not admit it openly), had been in touch with us via phone to arrange the perfect way ask her to be his wife. He and I (Phillip) consulted maps, daylight charts, and calendars to arrange the perfect time and the perfect location. And after that joyful moment transpired, I could only stand in awe — knowing what a beautiful, challenging, and worthwhile journey they had ahead of them from that point on.

Eileen and I approached them after a moment, and the rest is history. As Jamie wrote after their wedding in an incredibly moving letter that had us in tears (I swear I don’t cry as often as it sounds!), “It is amazing what a Google search can lead to. We all use it everyday for different things but I never thought that one search for ‘Photographer in Athens GA,’ leading me to Blume Photography, would turn into what it has. Phillip and Eileen, y’all have been such a huge part of our journey towards marriage… We can not tell you enough how thankful we are that we met you guys and how awesome it has been to have you a part of our relationship. You both took the time to truly become part of our family…” There was much more, and it’s a letter I keep and re-read as inspiration, reminding me of the very best part of this gift we enjoy as a job. The people.

Soon Alysondria’s amazing mom and dad (whose tendency to cry out of joy over his daughter may actually make me with “my allergies” seem like a hardened soul) were in our home, looking at images and coming to grips with the reality that their little girl was grown up and building a new family now. Thankfully, she’s building it with Jamie, and even her dad will tell you — they’re the perfect combination!

Next we were with them on the coast of North Carolina for three extraordinary days, meeting their families, celebrating their union, and adventuring together in a boat for a sunrise island photo shoot. (More of that to come in my next blog post, from their Encore Session!) Most recently, we had the best imaginable treat when they visited us once again in Athens, and Alysondria helped us inaugurate our studio as our first ever bridal portraits model in the new space. Followed of course by another adventure outdoors and lots of amazing images to wrap this first project, documenting the historic milestones of their history-in-the-making!

Jamie told me, “Some of the biggest smiles that I have ever seen on Alysondria’s face came from looking at the art you guys were able to put together.” No doubt that was due to the particular man who happened to be by her side as we created and displayed those art pieces! But for us — wow — it’s just an honor to see and preserve those smiles, the iconic moments that grandchildren will one day have etched in their minds as well. Congrats, Alysondria and Jamie. We love you!  

Be sure to leave your well-wishes for Alysondria and Jamie in comments below. Watch their wedding slideshow video below, too. Or view and order images from their complete online gallery here!