Tracey & Jason

They gazed into each others’ eyes. Huge grins spread across their faces. As they moved closer and closer, giggles erupted as they touched noses. Shifting side to side in perfect sync with one another across the floor, they whispered. “I’m gonna love you like I’m gonna lose you. I’m gonna hold you like I’m saying goodbye. Wherever we’re standing, I won’t take you for granted. Cause we’ll never know when, when we’ll run out of time.”* These lyrics provided a sweet and meaningful backdrop for Tracey and Jason–now husband and wife during their

first dance.

The tradition of the first dance dates as far back as the 17th century when the wealthy held formals in their homes. The hosts of these fancy shindigs would take to the floor for a “first dance” to open up the dance floor. Modern couples have taken this tradition and run with it. Although some couples prefer a traditional ballroom dance, some choose to perform a modern choreographed jig, while others simply wing-it, simply moving side to side to the music. Regardless of the specifics, this is the first time for newlyweds to dance as husband and wife. So the song has to be perfect, right? Many couples, ummm, scratch that. Many brides spend countless hours selecting that perfect song for this first dance.

For Tracey and Jason, however, this was a piece of cake.

You see, back when they were dating, Jason showed just how much Tracey meant to him with a sweet, yet grand gesture. As a single woman with no kids (outside of the 24 or so she teaches and cares for on a daily basis), Tracey had never put much thought into buying and decorating a tree for Christmas. All of the work of assembling (or cutting down if you’re THAT type) a tree, stringing lights, and decorating seems like a lot of unnecessary work for one person. Well, at least that’s how I see it! Of course Tracey believes in the true meaning of Christmas and enjoys the holiday season; she just never had a tree of her own as an adult.  So, one cold December day, the kind and thoughtful Jason snuck into Tracey’s home while she was at work and you guessed it, setup a Christmas Tree. She was totally shocked when she came home to see this symbol of the holiday, and Jason’s undying love for her, in her living room. After finishing with the decorations, they danced. Yep. TO THAT SONG… “Like I’m Gonna Lose You”*

This wedding was a beautiful setting of royal blue, with coral and silver accents. The venue, Union Community Center, was spacious, immaculately clean, with amazingly kind owners! The bride was a vision in her perfectly fitted gown by David’s Bridal and makeup was flawless by Sherea Petty-Malone. Her shoes were to die for!!! Hanging out with the bride and her bridesmaids during the getting ready portion of the day had me in stitches. They are a crazy-fun, which made for an unforgettable time! The ceremony was sweet and full of emotion. The bride’s brother officiated, which added another level of personalization to the day. It was hard not to get choked up thinking about Tracey’s lost loved ones during the lighting of the memorial candles.  Smiles were abundant, though. From sweet memories of times passed to the cutest best man in the history of best men and the delicate steps of the gorgeous flower girls, the wedding was a beautiful reflection of love. The reception was full of fun and flowed very smoothly, thanks to DJ Joe Smooth and coordinator Rhonda Young. It was obvious that all of the guests enjoyed the event from start to finish, enjoying the food by Tomiko Joyner, dancing, and greeting each other joyfully.

This is a true reflection of the love and joy in the hearts of the new Mr. and Mrs.

Tracey and Jason, your love story is so refreshing. It reminds me that God is a promise-keeper who is faithful above all others. I love you guys and cannot wait to see what God has in store for your special union. I know it’s going to be epic! Thank you for trusting me with the honor of capturing your wedding day memories.

Keep God in the center of your marriage and keep loving each other like you’re running out of time.

Shout out to my second shooter, Jalyn Farrow. I couldn’t have done this without you!

*”Like I’m Gonna Lose You” (featuring John Legend), recorded by Meghan Trainor and written by Meghan Trainor, Justin Weaver, and Caitlyn Smith