Lucas + Rachael / Vesper Hill Children’s Chapel Wedding 9.28.2019

They met in college. Both on the same track team, Rachael threw hammer and Luc ran distance; but Rachael didn’t just throw hammer. She was a record breaking machine. Luc caught her eyeing him at a track meet in Boston, and introduced himself the next day.

Before long, they were attached at the hip. Over the next few years, they would graduate from UMaine, move to Portland, start 9-5 jobs, survive Luc’s trips away for National Guard training, and make many memories together in the beautiful Maine outdoors.

Given that the two of them loved winter adventures, it was only fitting that Luc propose during a trip to Sugarloaf. Rachael’s family played a large part in the wedding planning, from assisting with vendor consultations, to orchestrating and hosting their wedding shower.

At their consultation back in May, it became clear to me that when it came to wedding details, these two were the complete opposite of high maintenance. We met for dinner in Brunswick at Little Tokyo and discussed what they were looking for. Their primary and almost only concerns were to make sure that their wedding day was documented as it happened, and that everyone had fun. From the beginning, they had complete faith in my creative process.

Come June it was time for engagement photos. We met in Rockport near where they would be married in a few short months, and explored the Merryspring Botanical Gardens, ending on the rocks by the ocean at Beauchamp Point. Though I knew the two of them prior to their engagement photos, it was during this session that I got to see who they really are as a couple. They are flirty and fun, quick to make each other laugh, sarcastic (my favorite), and witty. As they climbed over deep crevices in the ocean cliffs, Luc always offered a hand and made sure that Rachael was sure footed and safe. During their more intimate poses, their energy was magnetic. It could not have been more clear that they were made for each other.

Fast forward a few months and it is their wedding day. I meet Rachael in the morning at the Camden Harbour Inn and begin photographing details. She is relaxed and easygoing, as per usual.

Rachael’s mom, Jen, arrived shortly after, and we went downtown to the salon so that the stylists could get started on their hair. Green With Envy in Camden is a beautiful salon. The staff was warm, welcoming, and personable. Rachael’s stylist, Alyssa, kept her laughing and kept up comfortable conversation to pass the time. The experience as a whole seemed so genuine and smooth.

After we grabbed lunch, I reached the point in the timeline where I go to visit with and photograph the guys. Luc was dressed and waiting, more than ready to be Rachael’s husband. The first thing he asked me was how she was doing, and then he immediately followed up with clarifying questions to make sure she was feeling okay. I could sense the anticipation in his voice as he talked about seeing her come down the aisle, worried he wouldn’t cry.

“I’m just not a crier; is that okay? Do most grooms cry?” He asked me. I assured him that of course it is ok not to, and everyone responds differently. But to be honest, I had a feeling he might.

Back at the inn, Rachael’s brother and “Person of Honor”, Phil, followed me up the stairs to the bridal suite. I snapped away as her mom, Jen, helped her into her dress. Jen educated Phil on bustling techniques and then headed to the venue, and we were on our way out the door shortly after.

We arrive at Vesper Hill Children’s Chapel.

If a dad and daughter first look doesn’t make you feel all the feelings, I don’t know what could, because this moment was one of my favorites of the day. I positioned Steve around the corner and went to get Rachael from the car. We walked around the dirt loop and I stood in front of Steve. I will let these images speak for themselves; but I was crying behind my camera.

The ceremony was beautiful. They made their commitment in front of a small group of family and friends. At the end, the pastor added a few more lines. He asked for the attention of the guests and had Rachael and Luc turn to face their loved ones. I don’t have his exact words, but here is what happened: He asked if they would all stand by Rachael and Luc no matter what difficulties they may face. He asked if they would support them in their trials and celebrate with them in their successes. Wiping away tears, their guests agreed to it all, without a hint of hesitation. The chapel was full of a cohesive support unit, ready to see the newlyweds through their life together.

The rest of the night went perfectly; we took their family portraits, then their newlywed shots.

We drove to back to the inn and celebrated with incredible food and drinks at Natalie’s restaurant. There were laughs, tears, toasts, and memories made. It was a beautiful day and I am so lucky to have been a part of it.

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Bourget! I know you both will have an amazing life together.