Steph and Lee might just be one of my favorite couples of all time.

I might be biased though, considering Steph and I have been friends since the late 90’s when I moved to Pittsburgh from Virginia. I was the new kid in school and that doesn’t always lend itself to a wonderful experience. Steph was my art class buddy who was always friendly and welcoming to me. I was always at ease in her presence and valued the friendship she offered.

Fast forward a decade and she had looked me up after she moved to my area in D.C. and we reconnected. I was thrilled to hang out again and meet her partner, Lee (who, not surprisingly is also one of the nicest humans on the face of the planet) and we managed to rebuild a friendship despite “all the things” life can throw at you.

When I moved to Colorado, Steph and Lee were one of the biggest things I was going to miss about life in DC. Lucky for me, they made time to come visit and visa versa. The last time I was back on the east coast they suggested doing an anniversary photo shoot. They had been through so much, they wanted photos that reflected who they are now and the last time they’d done photos had been their wedding before we had even reconnected. (Full disclosure, it’s MORE nerve-wracking to photograph for friends and family than strangers…maybe I’m weird that way but it’s my truth at least!)

We decided on a rustic/urban feel in a neighborhood in Baltimore to celebrate their love. Steph had a blast picking out the girliest thing I’ve ever seen her in (and we’ve been to homecomings and proms and formals together!) and Lee rocked some custom-fit styles that looked killer as well. It was an absolute blast. They are the best models and did anything I asked of them and more. Their relationship is a gift to witness. The love, respect, and admiration they have for each other is uplifting and beautiful to see. I wish I could photograph them every year!