Merry almost Christmas, friends! It’s hard to believe we’re already wrapping up the year – and an incredible year, at that! As I prep for Christmas right around the corner, reflect on 2017, and prepare for 2018, I keep coming back to all the things I’m thankful for in this business and life.

Every year brings new adventures, new opportunities, and new couples to the Lauren Carnes Photography family. And yes, it truly does feel like a family. Couples from my earlier years (and even some from this year!) are beginning to have babies, are celebrating new homes, new jobs, and more, and I couldn’t be more thrilled for them all.

I’m constantly blown away by the joyful, welcoming, and thoughtful people I get to serve. In years past I have shared an end-of-the-year note to my couples from 2016 and 2015, so to keep in tradition, I’m here for my amazing 2017 couples!

This year introduced me to 11 incredible couples, a few furry side kicks, countless family members & friends, and more. As a wedding photographer, I get to serve couples on one of the most important days of their lives… and often feel more like an extra bridesmaid toting a camera than I do “just a vendor.” My couples invite me into decision making processes during wedding planning, chat with me on Instagram DMs throughout the year, and even send me surprises in the mail for a “just because.” Like I said: more like a dear friend than just a vendor. And I couldn’t be more grateful for that… because let’s be real: post wedding day, my couples aren’t getting rid of my that easily. I love following along with their adventures and hearing updates on their lives as they begin marriage.

2017 was no different. From Patricia & Stewart’s spring day to kick off the year, and Rachel & Dustin’s joyful wedding to close, every couple in 2017 brought such a smile to my face. From Augusta to Atlanta to Athens to Columbia, South Carolina, I got to spend the day with 11 of the best couples in the Southeast this year. They were new friends & old, sorority sisters & co-workers, referrals from former brides & from fellow friendors, and more than anything, they were genuinely full of so much joy & love for each other and those around them!

To each of you pictured below, THANK YOU. You’ll never know how much I appreciate you all… and how much love looking through your images again and again. I found myself laughing & smiling through happy tears remembering some of the sweetest moments of the year while making this post.

I love y’all! So, without further adieu… I give you the fabulous LCP couples of 2017!

And to my 2018 couples:

With your incredible weddings right around the corner, I am already counting down the days until we get to celebrate together! It’s been such a treat already to capture your engagement sessions, hear of your plans, and dream of what’s to come for you in married life. It’s a good life, I’ll tell you that. You all are the best, and I can’t wait to see you soon!! 🙌🏻 

Pop back to the notes to:

My 2016 Couples | My 2015 Couples