Most relationships I have with my couples start in similar ways; a referral from a past couple, a venue or other vendor, or finding us organically online somehow. How I came to know Lauren, and in turn, Philip, is a lot more interesting and impactful. Last October, I traveled around Morocco doing photography for a project that was raising money and awareness for human/sex trafficking. One of our main contacts in Fes (a city in Morocco) fell through last minute, but we were soon connected with Lauren, who helps run an organization in Morocco that combats human trafficking. I spent a day with her while there and documented part of what her normal day looks like as well as photograph some of the young girls she works with. Through conversation, we realized we were both from outside of Philadelphia. Small world! A little while after I returned home, Lauren reached out about her upcoming wedding and eight months later, the big day was finally here. Philip and Lauren got an early start to their wedding prep and then met us at The William Penn Inn for their first look. We transitioned right into wedding party and family pictures, and before we knew it, the guests had arrived and it was time to begin the ceremony. Lauren and Philip had a lot of special moments during their ceremony, such as a time of worship, a tree planting, and foot-washing ceremony. Philip’s dad conducted the ceremony and a short time later, they were officially husband and wife. From there, it was on to cocktail hour and the reception. Philip comes from a very large family with an even larger group of nieces and nephews. I think there were more kids at this wedding than any that I’ve had before. Everyone had an awesome time celebrating the new couple and a short time later, they were making their grand exit surrounded by all of their guests blowing bubbles. It was a great day to be sure!
