Kristina and Ricardo just celebrated their 8th wedding anniversary, and decided to make it memorable, because this time they had a special little guest with them. They chose the majestic Ocean Cliff in Newport RI – the same place that held their beautiful wedding on that hot July day in 2012.

I can’t imagine what it must feel like going back to the place where everything started, where you exchanged your vows and dreamed of starting a family. Actually… I can. I was there to witness it, and it was incredible.

I’m sure it felt a bit surreal, because this time they were holding their gorgeous one-year old daughter (wait until you see her mesmerizing eyes!). We strolled the amazing grounds while we talked about the beauty of parenthood, and how much we long for a full night sleep when they are this little. They know the time is brief, and Kristina and Ricardo are loving every second with baby Jo-Ella and all her cute faces and cute sounds 🙂

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Newport, RI is a dream destination for photo sessions (I’ve done my fair share since its so close from me!), and The Ocean Cliff couldn’t be more perfect for this one. Every corner reminded them of one of the best days of their lives, of all the preparation and love they put into every single detail -even the unexpected fireworks show, making it extra special for everyone involved. We walked up to the trellis where they exchanged their vows, and all those memories came right back…

“I promise to love you unconditionally”

“I promise to always make you laugh”

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And then… we paused. I asked them to close their eyes, and to think of their favorite moment that day… and he whispered: seeing you walking down the aisle. It was hard for me to hold back my tears while witnessing this tender moment. Kristina could not contain her emotions, and she soaked it all in. Every single word.

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It was so special. For them and for me. I wasn’t expecting to elicit so many emotions from a single question, but when you are married to the love of your life, when you are raising a beautiful daughter, and all the pieces are perfectly in place, tears of joy are welcome to roll down your face.

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