Remember Our Favorite Fitness Couple, Carlos and Courtney? Well, guess what, they made their union official this past summer and there’s so much more to this couple than what goes down at the gym (even though they made sure we went with them to the gym right after their ceremony).

This summer was a very sensitive one for me (Megan) and this was the first wedding we shot after my mom passed and I was curious how I would feel going through with it. Honestly, what happened this day was not at all what I was expecting and it was confirmation to me that I was exactly where I was meant to be at this stage in my life. When I arrived to the Bridal Suite, Courtney requested that I make sure that I get some shots with her mom in them. I did a quick survey of the room for “Mom” and my eyes landed on a photographic cardboard cutout of a beautiful woman dressed in white. “Is that Mom?” I asked and when she replied with a Yes, my eyes instantly watered and my heart filled to the brim with gratitude. I had this overwhelming sense of honor that I could photograph this day for her and I ended up telling her earlier that day that my mother’s funeral was the day before and the way she grabbed me for a hug was one of the most beautiful feelings I’ve ever experienced at a wedding. She told me to always keep Mom close any way that you can. Even though, it’s just a cut-out portrait of her mother, she knew how much her presence means to her on a daily basis and a especially on her wedding day. Sorry, I don’t want to make this blog sound too much about me but I just though it was too beautiful not to share.

Beyond that, this couple’s family was a blended mix between Latin and African-American and the way that they treat and support each other truly felt like family. So many close-knit friends and family came together to support Courtney and Carlos. After their ceremony they headed to the gym at the Marriott in Bethesda to get some unique photos in a setting where they’re most comfortable. When they returned to cocktail hour, guests were so excited to greet and congratulate these two. Once the reception started, Guests pulled out drums and güiros to salsa and party together to celebrate the newlyweds. This is a couple who is so passionate about each other and it shows in every frame.