Forever Paisley

Em Gem. Known karaoke all-star. Long time boy band lover. Dear friend.

If one thing is for sure, Emily has always believed in me. When I was young, her and Dani-D didn’t hesitate as they took me out with the “older kids” and showed me off. Whenever I’ve fallen down, she’s picked me up, listened, slapped me in the face (gently), and trained me how to walk again. When I make obscure, yet satisfying life decisions she celebrates with me, from near and far.

Naturally, when Emily informed me that her and Brandon were engaged, I was elated. I immediately and sincerely shipped off the the obligatory “Congrats, I’m so happy for you” text message. I set my phone down. I walked away. Just days later I received a phone call …

“Cher?”

“Emi, congrats again. How does it feel? What’s up?”

“No pressure, but we would love it if you would be our photographer.”

Silence

While I know Emily has always believed in me, I didn’t necessarily believe in myself. After all, this was a huge task. This was her day. A day not meant for creative experiments. I hesitated, provided a few caveats and agreed. Deal, sealed. Panic. In the months leading up to the event I started prepping. I took a class. I upgraded my software. I tested the lenses that had been hiding under by bed for months. There was no turning back.

On July 12th, 2013 I rolled into our hometown of Marquette, Michigan with a suitcase full of camera equipment, a pair of heels and a mismatched assortment of clothing. This was it. From left to right. Close up and far away. Perfect exposures and a few oops’. I came. I shot. I edited. I shipped.

In the end everything seemed to work out. Emily and Brandon are satisfied with the photos (or they’re really good liars) and I was challenged to take on a project that I would have never pursued on my own.

Thank you Emily. Thank you Brandon. Thanks for the challenge. Thank you for believing in me. Lot’s of love to both of you and your families.