When Nate was in college at the University of Central Florida, he got his first dSLR and spent countless hours photographing anything and everything he could. He’d sell his work on Deviantart.com where he worked as an admin and a handful of friends had his prints on their walls. Three of those people I remember best: My practically-perfect-in-every-way mother-in-law, Nick, and Maria. Maria was one of Nate’s biggest supporters, with her living room covered in work by one Nathan Root. Nate didn’t have a car at school for a while, and Maria was the one to drive him to get his prints developed and occasionally to browse the frame aisle at Target. Maria was so instrumental in keeping Nate’s passion for photography alive, and I’m eternally grateful! :)

She was among the first of Nate’s friends I met when we first started dating, so photographing her wedding was so special for us. It’s a wonderful thing seeing old friends so happy. :)

We started the day at Lake Mary’s Residence Inn, where Patricia LeJeune had already worked her hair magic and another friend (and past Root bride Michelle!) had taken over make-up duty.

I can post these because we’re friends, but Nate’s other college best friend, Danielle, served as maid of honor and had the best faces while helping Maria get dressed. <3

Maria and Chris were married at the beautiful Annunciation Catholic Church in Altamonte Springs. It was so surreal shooting here, because Nate and I rented a condo maybe a 1/2 mile away while we were engaged. We’d walk Huck around this empty property at night allllll the time! :)

Oh yeah- Remember that time we photographed that ridiculously adorable Christian singer around Nashville? That was Sarah (right), who happens to be the maid of honor’s sister. :)

Married!! I rarely shed a tear at weddings, but I maaaaay have lost it a little during their recessional. :)

Nate always sneaks photos of people sneaking photos during group photos, but this may be one of my favorite reactions ever. :)

FAVORITE. So glad Nate had such great women in his life before I showed up on the scene!

Fact: I’m in love with Maria’s brother Noel and how much they completely adore each other. I kinda want to rent him out for holidays. :)

We made it to their reception at the Lake Mary Events Center just in time to catch the last little bit of sunset light.

Oh yeah, and Lydia was there to assist us for the evening, and our pal Tracy Marini of Eventfully Yours was on hand to coordinate the reception! That meant two things- Silly face photos and juice boxes for us during our break! <3

Maria’s new business venture, Kernel Desires, served as wedding favors and were such a hit with the guests! You can “like” her Facebook page here: Kernel Desires.

Loooooove this shot Lydia grabbed as their DJ announced them in to their reception!

Another great Lydia shot! :)

They won the anniversary dance by being married the longest. <3

Maria and Chris, we’re so happy for y’all and thrilled you let us capture your day!!