Rekindled Friendship

I've had the pleasure of knowing Moriah (the bride) since childhood. We both lived in the same area while growing up and would hang out occasionally with our mutual friends. When my family moved away we disconnected for a time, until I moved back to Texas and had the chance to reconnect with Moriah. We both share a love for media and photography in general.


I was ecstatic getting the invitation to Hank and Moriah's wedding day. I think it was two days before the big day that Moriah reached out to me and asked if I would take pictures during their "afterparty" and I happily said YES!

Newlyweds cutting their elegant white wedding cake together under decorative lighting.
A wedding couple walks beneath twinkling lights at their reception venue.
Abstract light trail creating a neon curve against a dark background.

The Unexpected

After a beautiful ceremony filled with pure joy, I chatted away during cocktail hour with a few friends. To our surprise (and to the bride and groom) when it came time to cut the cake, the photographer was nowhere to be found. Miscommunication happens on days like these, and panic set in around the room. I was called up to the front, and immediately I told my husband to grab my camera gear!


Never did I expect to "save the day" but I was glad at least someone was there to catch these moments for my dear friend. The crowd around the cake table began to cheer "Ember! Ember!" as I whipped out my camera and fixed up my settings. I probably would've collapsed under the pressure if it weren't for God's grace and my wedding photography experience. From that moment on until the rest of the night, I did my best to capture the emotion, the details, and all the insanely good dance moves!

Wedding guests dancing and celebrating energetically at a reception.
A couple shares an intimate dance moment at their wedding reception.
Wedding guests smiling and dancing together at an indoor reception.

An Unforgettable Night

It's safe to say I will never forget Hank and Moriah's wedding, and not for the reasons you might think. Though unexpectedly taking over the photography was quite memorable, I think what will stick with me most is the love that these two share for each other and all of the people who were there supporting them. They have been blessed with the most loving community and seeing so many people come together to celebrate them was so special.


Moriah is the most joyful person I know and her energy fueled the entire night. Even Hank, who is known to be more stoic and reserved was having the time of his life (as he should!) Their dreamy starlit wedding was truly magical and it was a pleasure to immortalize these moments.

Sparkling disco ball creating colorful light patterns in a dark room.
A couple dancing beneath artistic light fixtures at a wedding reception.
Enthusiastic wedding guests dancing and celebrating on the reception dance floor.
Wedding guests dancing and celebrating at a reception with festive energy.
Woman in sparkly navy dress dancing enthusiastically at party with blue lighting.
Disco ball casting starburst patterns on dark ceiling above dancing crowd.
Couple sharing an intimate slow dance at their wedding reception.
Traditional wedding garter removal moment during reception celebration.
Group of guests forming a dance circle during lively wedding reception.
Hand waving goodbye from car window in black and white nighttime shot.
Chocolate frosted cake displayed with romantic twinkle lights in background.
Energetic guest dancing in formal attire at wedding reception.
Collection of shoes scattered on floor near wall with lighting fixture.
Bride in white gown dances joyfully at wedding reception with blue lighting effects.
Newlyweds cut their white wedding cake together decorated with greenery.