I’ve re-written this post a couple of times. In my first draft, I started out talking about May 17, 2004, the day Massachusetts legalized same-sex marriage, and how important/significant that day was…for the state, the country, the couples who were finally allowed to marry and also for me…as a then reporter, covering the story and getting to see first hand how lives were being changed, and in such a positive way.
But, really, none of that addressed why this post feels so special and important to Andy & me. Yes, it is our first same sex couple and that’s significant (if not somewhat surprising, since we’ve been doing this for almost 9 years). And, yes, we’re at a turning point in our nation’s history, when legislators are finally doing and saying the right thing. But, what really makes this post feel so special is the people it’s about.
And, so it is with great pleasure that we present… Mauri & Chris!
Mauri & Chris have a special love, one that runs long & deep. With 17 years of history under their belts, their relationship has already stood the test of the time. Together they’ve experienced much life….the loss of parents, changes in career, financial challenges, family drama and illness…stuff that can bring relationships crumbling down. Yet, through all the changes and challenges life has brought, one thing remains the same…their love for one another.
This post isn’t about May 17, 2004. It’s about Mauri & Chris. Two strong, sweet, warm, wonderful, kind, funny, amazing women, who finally get to have the commitment they made to each other be legally recognized. And as important, they get to celebrate their beautiful love and ongoing commitment to one another with the family & friends who have supported and stood by them all these many years.
Both Andy & I feel incredibly humbled and honored that they choose to share all of this with us. Right from our first meeting with them, we felt an instant bond and sensed a special kind of love…the kind that is so much fun to photograph!
Our afternoon together, a couple of weeks ago at their love session, further confirmed everything we have felt about these two. Love these fabulous ladies!
We started our session with a glass of wine at A Little Inn on Pleasant Bay in Chatham, where Mauri & Chris were staying with some family for the weekend. It’s just a stone’s throw from Wequassett, where they will say “I do!”. It’s a great hotel, with very friendly owners and oodles of Cape Cod charm.
Mauri was a little shy at the start of our session, but Chris helped pull her out of her shell with her sweet & loving touch.
Cape Cod kisses…
Come on…are these two cute or what?
A fun perspective in the garden…
Snuggle time…
Mauri & Chris exchanged rings in a ceremony for just the two of them on a beach in St. John 14 years ago. And, in a few months those rings will take on an exciting new meaning. Love it!!!
After hanging out at the inn for a bit, we headed to the beach. Both Mauri & Chris lost their dads not too long ago, and both of their father’s had a special affinity for light houses, so this next one feels extra special…
If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times…there is no better place in the world, than in the arms of the one you love!
LOVE is….
Smiles that say it all…
Wherever you go, i will follow…
I can almost see the years of love & dedication that fills the space between their gaze….
Are we having fun yet? Yup!
You + Me = everything
With the sun quickly setting, we headed back to the inn…sad to see our time together end, though our hearts full and excited for things still to come.
Mauri this next one is for you…just had a feeling you would enjoy the night setting at the inn. Goodnight moon.
Mauri & Chris thank you for a wonderful afternoon of sipping wine, great conversation and lots of love & laughter! We adore you two and are so very grateful to you for entrusting us with documenting this exciting, love-filled time in your lives! We can’t wait to be there with you, your friends & family as you say, “I do!” (again) With big love & hugs, Chris & Andy xoxo