If you read through any wedding photographer’s website, chances are you’ll find their favorite part of a wedding day. Some say it’s the details. Some say it’s the excitement of the bride’s room. Some love the toasts or the dance floor.

For the longest time my answer would remain this: Each wedding is different, so I have a different favorite part from each day.

While I still stand by that answer, it’s been bothering me lately because it doesn’t feel like the completest answer. It wasn’t the fullest answer.

So I did some reflecting. Some pondering. I’ve been mulling it over in the back of my mind for the last several months. And then as I was walking my most recent bride & friend to see her groom for the first time that day, it hit me.

I get the best seat in the house.

Better than the front row in the ceremony. Better than a seat at the head table. I get to be witness to every single part & detail of your entire wedding.

I get to see your venue transformed into the space of your dreams.

I’m there when you see your bouquet & cake for the first time.

I get to see your grandmother’s reaction to you in her veil.

I’m the only witness to you & your fiancé seeing each other during a first look.

I’m passing you a box of tissues as your friends pray over you.

I get to see your ceremony from every angle in the house.

I’m dancing around you during your first dance & again at your last.

I’m running with you down the sidewalk lined with sparklers.

THAT’S my favorite part. Being a trusted fly on the wall for the entire day.