Valerie and Jeremy met at a Jewish-themed a cappella group called Alef Beats at Brown University a little over eight years ago. Neither of them are Jewish. After Valerie's audition, Jeremy turned to his friends and said, "Wow, she's really attractive!" He shared this during his vows!

He is also attracted to and profoundly admires her incredible kindness to friends and strangers. In an email response to some questions that help me get to know couples outside our in-person or on-screen meetings, Jeremy wrote of how extremely humble she is, which manifests not only in how she sees herself but also in how she sees such unique value in others. "A compliment from Valerie makes you feel seen, genuinely recognized, which to me is just such a beautiful feeling." Likewise, Valerie admires how level-headed Jeremy is when things don't go as expected. She's never seen him lose his cool, no matter the crisis. "Paradoxically, she writes, "he is quite sensitive, and I also admire how he goes out of his way to talk to the most left-out person in any group."

They were excited to experience the crossover of all the people who are important to them, who have never been in the same space before and likely never will be again. Their celebration was less about the theatrics of a wedding and more so about the connections with their guests, the reuniting of family and friends, and the commitment they would make in front of them. This thinking reinforces an idea that's very dear to me— the wedding day is not about the photographs I will make; the photographs are about the wedding.

I left their wedding with a huge smile, grateful to have witnessed a love that felt so rich and full. I am grateful they found me and for the opportunity to share in their experience. Congratulations, Valerie and Jeremy!

Location & Catering: Lakeview Pavilion
Floral: Nico + Vines
Entertainment: 617 Weddings
Cake: Dessert Works Bakery
Valerie's band— Strawberry Generation