Russ and Shanna Got Married

Over the years, I’ve photographed more than a hundred weddings—some with over 300 guests, bridal parties with 8 or more bridesmaids, full weekend celebrations with multiple venues, bustling dance floors, and intricate timelines. But some of my favorite weddings are the quiet ones—the simple, soulful, deeply personal kind that remind you what this is all about.

Russ and Shanna’s wedding was exactly that.

They said “I do” in the middle of an old log cabin that seemed to have been waiting its whole life to witness something this tender. There were no rows of chairs or floral arches—just the two of them, their dear friend Harriet who officiated, and me, standing behind the camera and also signing as a witness to their marriage certificate. It was a teeny-tiny ceremony in numbers, but not in meaning.

There’s something about small weddings that allows every single moment to breathe. Nothing is rushed. Nothing is hidden beneath layers of production. The laughter is real, the tears come easily, and the love feels unfiltered. Shanna knew exactly what she wanted for her day—quiet, connection, and a moment that felt like theirs and theirs alone.

Harriet, who has been a long-time friend to Shanna, didn’t just marry them—she brought part of her heart into the ceremony. She thoughtfully incorporated heirloom items passed down in her family, adding layers of history and love that felt like a blessing from generations before. It was incredibly touching to witness. I don’t think any of us left that moment without feeling the weight of its beauty.

After exchanging their vows, Russ and Shanna shared a stunning cake and the sweetest cupcakes. There was champagne, laughter, and that easy kind of love that comes from knowing someone deeply. No music, no microphones—just a quiet breeze and the sound of joy echoing through the trees and across the field.

Weddings like this remind me that love doesn’t need a stage to be powerful. It doesn’t need a packed room or a grand performance. Sometimes, it just needs a cabin, a couple brave enough to do things their own way, and a few dear people to stand beside them as they say “yes” to forever.

Russ and Shanna, thank you for letting me witness your day—not just as a photographer, but as a witness to something real and rare. I’ll carry this one with me for a long time.

The beautiful cake was done by Sweet Ts - Follow her here