Seven years ago at Parade Day in Binghamton, NY, Shannon and Marcus reconnected after years of not seeing each other. They had known of each other when they were kids, as they attended the same church and Shannon’s dad coached Marcus in youth basketball. Eventually, Marcus’s family moved to Maryland. But they came back to Binghamton every year for St. Patrick’s day and in one of those trips back, their lives changed forever.

Shortly after reconnecting, Shannon moved south to continue her schooling and to be closer to some extended family. That move also brought her much closer to Marcus in Maryland and they were able to see each other regularly. Shannon loved how warm and welcoming Marcus’s family was and knew that that was something she would love to have in her husband’s family someday. And for Marcus, well it was a rafting trip where he realized that he was in love with Shannon and he could see a forever future with her.

Three years ago, Shannon and Marcus had their son, Liam. While having a child may put a lot of strain on a relationship and really test their commitment, both Shannon and Marcus agree, becoming parents only strengthened their relationship. Each of them are an equal parent and partner in their relationship to each other and with their relationship to their son, Liam. Having Liam brought them back up to Binghamton NY and Shannon has nothing but good things to say about witnessing Marcus be a father. She says that it’s his true calling in life. It really was a beautiful thing to see them interact as a family and the kindness and gentleness between them all. AND I MEAN JUST LOOK AT HIM!! LIAM is SO. ADORABLE.

After an intimate ceremony at St. Patrick’s Church, we did some photos and video in front of the Roberson Mansion in Binghamton. Then they had a private room at Remlik’s, also in Binghamton, for a small gathering for their reception. It was so sweet that Marcus’s dad was the best man and Shannon’s mom was the maid of honor and both of them gave wonderful, heartfelt toasts.

Shannon and Marcus, you two were so sweet to work with. You have such a beautiful family and I can’t wait to watch you two continue to grow your family. I really can see you guys in 40 years sitting on a beach watching your grandkids play, just like Marcus said! 🙂