Brian & Carleen

Brian and Carleen’s wedding was a very unique and special day for us as photographers. I’ve known both Brian and Carleen since I was in middle school when we, along with the groomsmen, Kevin, Micah and Justin, all attended the same youth group at High Mill Church in Canton. Brian is a few years older than I am, so in my mind he was always one of “Kevin and Eric’s” friends, whom I got to tag along and hang out with from time to time. Even at the time, Carleen was one of those infectiously welcoming personalities who always made you feel like someone was glad to see you. When you are fourteen years old, that makes an impression. Even back then, she would periodically tell our youth pastor, Mike, that he would someday officiate her wedding, having no idea that her someday groom was likely somewhere in the room at the time.

As the years rolled on, Genevieve and I bumped into Carleen a number of times at John’s Bar and Grill, while Brian and my older brother Kevin remained close friends. It wasn’t until about six years ago when Brian and Carleen re-connected at one of Kevin and Carol’s New Year’s Eve parties (I think I have that right, correct me if I’m wrong) and started dating.

Fast forward six years to this past Saturday, and guess who’s officiating their wedding. Yep, Pastor Mike. THE Pastor Mike, in fact. It was kind of a close call, though. Pastor Mike and his family have only been in the States about a month now, after spending eight years as missionaries in Brazil.

It was so awesome to see so many familiar faces and to reconnect with people that I literally haven’t seen in over a decade, but not as awesome as seeing two of your good friends commit to each other in marriage.

Congratulations, Brian and Carleen. We are quite honored that you asked us to play a roll in your wedding, and we are so glad we were able to be a part if it.

Genevieve’s favorites:

And James’ favorites:

Some of Brian’s childhood toys in the background.