“Love conquers all,” they say.
And in Michelle and Larry’s case love conquered the time and distance war brings to a couple. Their relationship, mostly their dedication to one another to keep it going, is inspirational.
They met at a Habitat for Humanity site in Texas and have been building upon their relationship ever since. Unfortunately, the Iraq War separated them as he is a C-130J mechanic and she is a journalist. So, the difference in time and distance was a huge challenge.
They overcame it.
Michelle and Larry took every opportunity to talk with one another via phone, Skype, and email and would go to be with one another whenever possible. Now, after 8-months of being out of arms reach, they’re becoming closer than ever.
I met Michelle and her family back in April while Larry was still away serving. She had photos of him and a ton of great stories to share. And since she was a journalist, she was really good at telling them to me. Within a few minutes of just speaking with her, I knew that Michelle was the kind of woman who could make such a relationship work. She was resourceful, strong-willed, and fun-loving.
I didn’t get to meet Larry until it was their engagement session in June. Way taller than Michelle, you’d never think he would be so lovey-dovey and tender with her. He’s a military guy, so tenderness isn’t really part of their training, but he definitely has a soft spot for her and let her nestle right in it.
He’s the other half of this couple and is a laid back jokester of sorts. He made it pleasantly impossible to not have a frame where Michelle was giggling and laughing. But that’s them and it shouldn’t be any other way.
To solidify their commitment they had an intimate outdoor ceremony and indoor reception at the trendy Hotel Monaco in the Old Town section of Alexandria, VA. To make a long story short, full of dozens of little vignettes, inside jokes, and just overall awesomeness this wedding was the best one I’ve photographed so far.
Kudos to Michelle, Larry, and their family and friends for just enjoying themselves. Kudos to Geomyra Lewis for keeping the day moving like a well-oiled Swiss watch, and the hotel and vendors for re-expressing the fun love this couple have for one another.
… and they lived happily ever after.
- Geomyra Lewis (wedding coordinator)
- Rev. John Hortum (officiant, Episcopal)
- Jackson 20 (catering)
- Deiv Compton (cake)
- Dexter Fields Flowers (florist)
- Bialeks Music (DJ)
- Hair & Make-up by Claudine (cosmetics & stylist)
Beautiful story your pictures tell the story of the love of this beautiful couple. Pictures captured the moment. I feel like I was there.