The Dallas Arboretum is absolutely beautiful during the fall. From the bright flowers are always in full bloom, the golden sunlight that warms the place, and the pumpkins that are everywhere, it’s the perfect place to visit this time of year. Kids love seeing all the different things they have set up for each year’s unique theme, and parents are busy snapping pictures of their children as they enjoy the beauty around them.

It’s the perfect place to wind down and relax. You can see couples strolling through the gardens hand in hand, people enjoying food at the restaurant on site, and children laughing and playing together. The wind blows through the trees, rustling the leaves and causing the water in the pond to splash against the rocks. The waterfall can be heard from yards away, and draws people in to enjoy the calming sound. The hustle and bustle of the city melts away as the beauty of God’s creation sinks in.

But on the day of Erin’s bridals, I didn’t see any of that. All I heard were my feet pounding the sidewalk. All I saw was the map clutched in my hand. And all I felt was the sweat pouring down my face. I was on a mission to make it to the other side of the arboretum, and nothing was going to stand in my way! Because when you come to the Dallas Arboretum during the fall, parking lots fill up and next thing you know, you’re parking in the farthest lot from your meeting place. And yes, that’s exactly what happened to me.

As I weaved in and out of the people who were there enjoying their afternoon, I had one thing on my mind: “Main gate. Main gate.” I know I looked like a crazy person with my reflector in one hand, map in the other, trying to keep my camera bag from swinging too wide, but I didn’t care. I was on my way to take bridals for my childhood best friend, and I couldn’t wait to start.

When I rounded the corner and the main gate came into view, my breath caught in my throat. There she was. Erin’s dress caught the light filtering through the trees, throwing sparkles all around her. Her hair was blowing slightly in the breeze. And she looked absolutely radiant. Tears welled in my eyes as all the memories of us growing up came to mind.

Bubble baths and whirlpools in her swimming pool.
Fashion shows.
Stuffed animals and playing pretend.
Skiing trips and family vacations.
Spaghettio’s with pepper.
Church lock-ins and Superbowl parties.
Sandwiches with the crust cut off.
Emails.
IM’s.
Playing DDR and Wii.
Long talks till the wee hours of the night.
Sleepovers.
Dreaming of our future Prince Charmings…

And now here she was, in her wedding dress, ready to marry the love of her life. I couldn’t hold it together. I cried.
I cried for my friend who was so absolutely happy. I cried because she looked so beautiful in her wedding dress. I cried because she chose me to capture this amazing moment in her life. And yes, I cried a little because I was so grateful to finally find them.

Erin was a glowing bride on the day of her bridals, and a glowing bride yesterday when she and Trapper tied the knot. Her joy was infectious, and the entire day was full of laugher, love and tears. I was so honored to be there for her on the day of her bridals and her wedding day yesterday. These are memories that I know I’ll always hold near and dear to my heart!

Erin, I am SO excited for you and Trapper! I can’t wait to see how the Lord uses your marriage for His glory. Thank you for your friendship and asking me to capture this day for you.