As a wedding photographer when the bride is walking down the aisle with her father toward her soul mate, even if I don’t know her as intimately as the close family and friends that are attending the ceremony do, there in that moment I too get just as emotional and fight back tears of joy at it all. Why? Because it is beautiful. Most of all because I can feel God’s presence there in that moment, reminding me of His love for us.

When I got to experience the birth of this sweet baby boy, Beau, I felt the same tug at my heart strings. Only this birth experience lasted a lot longer than any bride walking down an aisle. About ninety minutes actually, haha! But it honestly went by so fast that it didn’t seem that long at all. The adrenaline rush was like no other (and slightly addicting). In that moment my heart kept saying, “I love this. I love this. I… love… this.”

I got the opportunity to photograph Chap and Ashley’s maternity session, which was nothing short of delightful. Now continuing to photograph them for the big event was even more astonishing. Chap, the father, had such a sweet bedside love for his wife. I could immediately see the servant-minded love he has and demonstrates for the love of his life as he continually encouraged Ashley and helped her with his much-needed calm disposition. Ashley was a trooper. She gave it all she had with determination and gusto, all while remaining just as beautiful as ever. And then just like that they got to meet their son, Beau—on National Dessert Day. Seven pounds, two ounces, and dark curly hair! He would scream and shout with the nurses as they aided him, but amazingly was calm and happy as soon as his mama held him in her arms for the very first time. He sure knew what he wanted 😉

Beau sure is blessed with a wonderful family. Getting to hang out with this incredible family was fun! They are the most welcoming people you will ever meet. Being in their presence is filled with laughter, love, and encouragement. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to kick back with such sweet people in the midst of such a joyous time. What a treat!

The staff we worked with at Athens Regional Medical Center in Athens, Georgia were so nice and professional. The triage nurse’s method of birth coaching was encouraging and uplifting. She really did a great job. Dr. Elder has had a lot of experience, and you could tell. He did a wonderful job bringing this baby into the world and did it with a professional manner. The one thing that made this event exceptional was all the smiles. The staff truly looked like they enjoyed every minute. Seeing smiling professionals means so much during times like this.

I hope you’ll enjoy these photos. I know the Bugg family will cherish these pictures forever. I also made a video slideshow of this event, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9k4D4wvipew