From Elizabeth City, wedding photographers Heather and Jared shared their story and time with Erika Mills Photography in the little secret nooks of Virginia Beach. The light was absolutely magical, but this married couple's insight and experience are even moreso as they share in today's feature.
What are a few things that you've learned during your first years of marriage?
Heather: I hopped on a plane and moved to Alaska with Jared after knowing him for three months so we had a LOT of learning curves and growing pains during our first year! Now, after ten years together, I can honestly say that the first few years were bumpy. Seeing where we are at now and looking back on what we've been through makes me incredibly proud. It takes both people being mindful of the other person and their feelings and both people have to always be willing to make it work.
Jared: After we got married we made a pact that divorce wasn't an option. In the beginning, there were days that we didn't see eye-to-eye, but we're crazy about each other and always wanted to do whatever it took to make it work. After ten years, we are definitely where we always said we wanted to be. We have fun together. I think that's what is most important. Don't stop having fun.
What are your favorite things about each other?
Heather: I love how patient and kind Jared is. Not only is he incredibly patient with me, but he has the ability to see the good in every situation we've been faced with. We always joke that we are the Leisure Lawrences because we try not to stress out about things. That is definitely something I have learned from Jared.
Jared: I love how motivated she is. When she sets her mind on something, she does it. I admire that about her and also loves the way she loves. She's also pretty easy on the eyes. ;)
What's one piece of advice you'd share with newlyweds?
Heather: You can either be right or happy, but you can't be both. ;) Choose happy.
Any other tidbits you'd like to share?
Jared: One of our favorite phrases is "If it matters to you, then it matters to me." Sometimes we don't always agree, but we value and respect the other person enough to care about what matters to them.
VENDOR CREDITS
Photography: Erika Mills Photography // Hair and Makeup: Jess Barbini Hair and Makeup Artistry // Location: Private Property in Virginia Beach // Submitted via Two Bright Lights
