I am so excited to share Ashleigh + Brandon’s engagement portraits… they are no ordinary couple.
About 2 1/2 months ago a story got posted in one of the wedding vendor communities on fb about a couple that needed help with their wedding. A friend of said couple posted their story to ask for donations, discounts, and any help the community could offer because the to-be-groom needs a second brain surgery in September that is going to eat their entire wedding budget. The response from the community of vendors was wonderful all on its own, but even more heartwarming for me was that out of more than a dozen photographers willing to donate their services this couple picked me. Budget was irrelevant, talent was heavy, and they picked me.
I’ve felt a little, ok a lot, conflicted on the wonderfulness of their decision since it is centered around a sad and, honestly, scary topic. After spending a dark and stormy Portland afternoon with them I feel nothing but joy for A+B and for their upcoming wedding.
We began our session at Powell’s Books. A+B are geeks. …there I said it. From Ashleigh’s Harry Potter time-turner necklace, to their mutual love of all things Sci-Fi, to their ‘I *heart* my geek’ T-shirts they are an adorable couple bursting with obscure references to books, movies, games, and more! After moving outdoors we faced a dark stormy muggy sky – much darker than it should have been – but this did not deter us. We busted out the long boards and made our way towards the Burnside Bridge. We were actually hoping for a short line at Voodoo Donuts (crazy right?) and an open table under the string lights in the alley …we were denied. Instead we found a bright yellow truck and one of the many Portland fountains turned on.
If any of you out there are the praying kind – or the sending positive thoughts kind – please give all that you can to Brandon as he preps for surgery next week. Here are some of my favorites. Enjoy <3
