Imagine my surprise when I received an email through the client inquiry part of my website with the subject line "Bethany Carter!"  (my maiden name).  Then imagine my surprise when I opened it up and read that it was from a long-lost high school classmate who now lives in China and found my site all the way from across the sea.  (insert dramatic pause).

Then imagine my delight when he asks for me to photograph him and his new bride on an extended visit to his homeland (insert uplifting music a la Braveheart) along with his family and grandparents who will soon be celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary.

(insert sweeping vistas).

How could I say no?

We planned the session from across the sea.  Communicating amazingly through this wonderful thing called the internet (heard of it?)  Seems when they were searching, he found my site and recognized my profile.  His beautiful bride said, "No way you know her."  Ben went out to say "I know the back of that head."  You see, I was Carter.  He was Cartwright.  Alphabetical. We sat in alphabetical order in every class I can remember (except Math and Science…I was hopeless).   I watched him draw robots and rockets and he probably got long hair flipped in his face more that he cared for.  That and he probably saw some awesome 90's sweaters.  I rocked 'em back then.  

Anyway.  We were friends back then and I was tickled pink that I was there to help him celebrate his new life…and his new love.

But first, the family.

They were so happy….she is the daughter they have dreamed of….

And these two?  Possibly my favorite photo of the entire session.  (And that couch?  Hello, gorgeous).  I got to hear a bit of this gentleman's story…he was a photographer in WWII!

The whole family – looking especially dapper…

Next, we ran over to one of my favorite locations in town for some evening light and some romantic shots. 

A fun artsy edit.

I love it when the shoes come off….

I love to bring flowers to my clients.  We have fun with them.

And they're gorgeous (I'm not talking about the flowers here….)

I wonder what he was whispering to her.  Whatever it was, she loved it.

And he loves her.

Isn't it romantic?  This Texas boy and this Texas girl…..

It was so wonderful and special to see this beautiful couple head over heels in love and living and loving life.  What an adventure they have begun.  I was especially honored to have been chosen from across the sea and that our paths crossed again.  Thank you Ben and Ashley and Cartwright clan!