I have been a part of dozens of styled shoots. Each one as cherry-picked and trite as the next. So, I wanted to do something different. Rather than all of my vendors spending their time, energy and money on a styled shoot solely for content, I wanted it to have a greater end goal & actually serve a couple in our community.

Meet Michael & Carrie. My neighbors turned dear friends and the chosen couple for said Styled Event.

While launching this idea, these two were not on my radar. I had subconsciously eliminated anyone I knew personally. But then I realized... I live in Boise, I am an active member of my community and isn't that who I am trying to serve? Besides, what difference does it make. After one of our front stoop chats, Carrie couldn't contain her excitement for this idea, not for herself, but for me. She was genuinely ecstatic and invested and couldn't wait to follow along and I thought, what the heck am I doing... you Carrie... It's you I need! No question.

Carrie's story is one that is so desperately needed in the wedding industry. While inevitable this business is about so much good. It often neglects to highlight the real. Behind every glossy image in bridal magazines or online - real life is happening behind those photos. There are aging parents, arguments, severed or estranged relationships, there's money squabbles, there's mental illness or chronic pain, there's death, grief or in this case, diagnosis. Because as it turns out, life doesn’t care what big plans you have in the works. It will keep happening regardless of your upcoming wedding. I wanted to depict a couple that has been going through it and amongst the beautiful photos- there is realness, strength and so much fuckin' LOVE.

I’ll never forget walking into Michael & Carrie’s house for a Super Bowl party (arguably this couple’s favorite day of the year) and instantly feeling something was amiss. Under bated breath, Carrie told me she was pregnant, which was exciting knowing they wanted a second child. But the energy shifted when she went on to say that earlier that day, they went to urgent care because her breathing felt labored. She remained still and told me that they found a mass in her lungs. Reality stopped.

Having never been a smoker, Carrie was soon diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and 8 weeks pregnant with her second baby.

It’s unimaginable the decisions these two faced while being pregnant in Idaho with a life threatening illness. They had to weigh the impossible choice of Carrie’s health, her longevity for their two year old daughter AND that of their unborn baby. They ultimately decided to leave the state to get the proper care and flew back and forth to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota for chemo. Living in hotel rooms, airbnbs and relative’s spare bedrooms.

In September, after four rounds of chemo and multiple procedures, Carrie gave birth to their second daughter. Who is both healthy and happy.

As they headed into their 10th year married with two babies in their arms, they received the greatest news: there were no signs of disease in Carrie’s body. I was so honored to throw them one hell of a party to celebrate.

The inspiration for their vow renewal largely stemmed from Carrie’s Vibeyness. She loves all things shaggy green carpet and velvet floral couches. Thus, I started with the Curry Velvet table cloth from BBJ and let the rest flow from there. I wanted over the top, structured florals to fit the 70’s era and unique place settings. More than anything though, I wanted warmth. Candle light was a big part of the evening, not only to emit a moodiness, but also to provide a tangible and visual warmth. Like a big hug surrounding these two.

The location was a no-brainer, we needed something unconventional and cozy so we chose Push & Pour Coffee shop for our backdrop. We also knew a white wedding dress just wasn't the vibe. Try as we might, it didn't feel right. So we curated two outfits for Carrie via Zara and to no surprise to anyone- everything looked absolutely STUNNING on her. Keep in mind now, she was just two months post partum, which any mama can tell you - is a wild fucking time for one's body. But for Carrie- the clothing was flawless. We also loved that the two piece white suit she chose showed off the scars from surgery which were both a reminder and a symbol of all the strength that got them here to this moment.

Okay, I could write for ages about these two, but I guess what you want to know is, yes, the event was a huge success. It was a night full of so many tears, tears on tears. But also an incredible dinner party provided by The Neighbors Table and ended with an epic dance party with beats provided by Soundwave Events. As an adult nearly in my 40s, wedding season fades. Most of your closest friends are either married or getting unmarried. Seldom do you get a redo if you will. A chance to be a part of something so monumental, so memorable as this with newfound friends. This will forever be one of my faves.