On the eve of the first of my many 2023 weddings, I find myself reflecting on the beauty and significance of celebrating marriage. In a world that can often feel fast-paced and transient, it is the commitment of two individuals to stand by each other, through thick and thin, that offers solace and strength. Wedding anniversaries mark the passage of time, reminding us of the growth; challenges; and triumphs that accompany a life shared with a beloved partner. Anniversaries provide us with an opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate the incredible milestones that couples achieve, together. Today, friends, I invite you to join me in this special moment of commemoration and heartfelt appreciation for the institution of marriage by celebrating the 10 year anniversary of Kaylin and Alex Russeau.

To most the thrill of a 10 mile run may be unappealing, but to Kaylin and Alex it’s always been an opportunity to grow closer to nature and to each other. Like many of their adventures together, it all began with a run. Running brought Kaylin and Alex together in high school and has since played a significant role in shaping their adventures in life: which over the last 10 years, among many places, has taken them to many cities across the United States and also to the remarkable country of Iceland. Kaylin and Alex even ran a race together at Wildwood Metropark on the morning of their wedding day!

On June 15, 2013, under the towering spruce trees of the generational Russeau family home, Kaylin and Alex became one. Beyond their love of running, they share an interest in hiking, kayaking and enjoying the great outdoors. For their honeymoon they went to their first national park: the Great Smoky Mountains. This was only the beginning of their adventures, together.

According to Kaylin, Alex is a handyman who works on projects that fuel their desire for more adventures. The most unique project he’s worked on was a renovated sprinter van, to which they named “Hank” (after its former owner). Hank has accompanied Kaylin and Alex through the Rocky Mountains; to the grand valleys of Stanley, Idaho; and out east to view the beautiful fall colors of the Adirondack Mountains.  Throughout 10 years of marriage they have been to 21 of the 63 National Parks. Their goal is to visit them all! Since the beginning, their love of running has proven that the next adventure together often begins by simply lacing up their shoes.

This evening I am reminded of the privilege and honor bestowed upon me to witness the union of two souls. It is a responsibility that fills me with a deep sense of purpose and a desire to capture the essence of my couple’s unique love stories. Kaylin and Alex: although I was not blessed with the opportunity to memorialize your most special wedding day 10 years ago, I am deeply honored to have had the opportunity to document this significant milestone in your remarkable journey through life, together. I hope that this anniversary becomes a visual narrative that will be treasured for many more anniversaries to come!