It has taken me a while to write out this blog post because each time I do, I just can’t fathom what has transpired since this day. We’ve never photographed a wedding more honoring of life and witnessing real love in sickness and in health.
Our groom Kirk passed away within a week after their wedding. Amanda and Kirk were planning an amazing wedding at the Baltimore Museum of Industry, but due to Kirks health getting worse in his battle again stage 4 colon cancer, they decided it was time to move up the wedding. Amanda and Kirk were in the midst of hiring us when I got their email requesting a new date. I remember it was that week of their July wedding asking if we were available. The new wedding date was 3 days away. It was the only weekend date in July we had left open on our calendar. I couldn’t believe that I was free to do it and be there for them.
Amanda and Kirk are rarities. I don’t know many people who fought cancer like these two, and were willing to sacrifice a lot to say “I Do” in sickness and in health before family and friends. We met Kirk and Amanda at a bridal show earlier this year when Kirk was a lot healthier but still battling.
Their wedding was so sweet. Friends and family sat in chairs out in their front yard, while Kirk and Amanda sat on a bench on their front porch putting rings on each other and committing to do life together, as unknown as the future would be. Bubbles were blown at the end as they were cheered on. Their rings were passed around to friends and family to hold and bless, and guests were invited to publicly share vocally for the couple during the ceremony. After the ceremony, everyone spent time together, eating in the back yard, laughing, taking selfies, and even the kids were out front playing with the hose, slip and slide and more.
I went home that day just feeling so blessed at the life God has given us all. I even hugged my husband and told him I loved him with tears streaming down my face. Nothing is guaranteed in this life on earth.
Later that week, I saw on Facebook that Kirk had passed away. I reached out to Amanda immediately and was able to visit her at the funeral home and give her a little piece of history to have and to hold.
Amanda… You’re a champion. You are for sure a Radiant bride, in the midst of life, its ups and downs, you still shine. We started this business to capture life in all its radiant moments because we know they can be lost in the blink of an eye. I’m so honored to have known Kirk and you both. We are here for you. The best part about all of this, is he is whole and healed in a better place, not suffering and in pain on this planet.
Love you heaps xox M&P
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