Sometimes I get to meet people through photography who I never otherwise would have met, and sometimes I have the privilege of connecting with people that I already knew and loved. Rob and Lisa are two people who have been our friends for several years now! Though they've since moved away, they were our next door neighbors for a long time, and we got to know them and Lisa's boys because of it. I'll never forget that day a year ago when I got a text from Lisa announcing their engagement - Nathan and I were so excited for them!

A year later, we met on a gorgeous end-of-summer day in Virginia Beach, right on the oceanfront, to celebrate Rob, Lisa, and the boys officially becoming a family. By this time, many of their friends have become our friends and we hold all four of them so close to our hearts. The day was simply beautiful from beginning to end, but my favorite part was heading back out to the beach right as the sun was setting to take pictures not just of the bride and groom, but their family of four as well.

The most special thing about Rob and Lisa really is their family relationship. They know how to party and have a great time - you should have seen their reception! - but at the end of the day, the people they truly are shines most when they are with each other along with Robert and Braden. The two boys even walked their mom down the aisle, embracing for a moment before she stood at the altar, facing Rob, ready to say I Do. Lisa has always been an amazing mom and a steadfast support, and Rob's kind heart is so obvious when he is around the three people he loves most.

Rob and Lisa, thank you for sharing not just your special day, but your lives with us as well. We miss you terribly now that we don't live right next to you, but being a part of your wedding was unforgettable. I hope your marriage is as wonderful as your wedding day, and that your lives together are forever blessed. We love you both!