Last September, I had the absolute pleasure of capturing the wedding of Helen and Mike Dobbyn down in Corpus Christi at Lively Beach in Port Aransas. It was stunning, laid back, and full of warmth – the kind of day that feels effortless yet unforgettable.
These two humans are the epitome of chill and love. The bond they share is so palpable, it radiates through every frame of my camera. And yeah, I know that sounds cheesy, but it’s 100% true, dagnabit!
One Year Later: A Destination Anniversary Session
Fast forward to early October — Helen and Mike flew me back down to Corpus Christi to photograph their one-year anniversary session, one of the many add-ons I offer for my wedding photography packages.
We spent two hours together, splitting the session into two different segments. The first location was a local favorite of theirs, The Busted Bicycle, a quirky island bar they visit often. Since they’re friends with the owner, we got to sneak in before opening and make the most of all the fun aesthetics inside.
Each room had its own personality — one was bright and airy with fairy lights twinkling in the corner, another had cozy string lights and bold pops of color, while another featured a lush, green vibe with floral garlands, a vintage phone booth, and a wall completely covered in foliage. It’s truly an eclectic little gem in Port Aransas and definitely worth a visit next time you’re on the island.
Before we wrapped up at the bar, I snapped a few portraits of Mike showing off his gold trophies. As it turns out, he’s a professional long-drive golfer — and not just any golfer. Mike holds the world record for the farthest drive in history (a jaw-dropping 551 yards!) and recently won his second World Long Drive Championship. Absolute beast, I tell ya.
Sunset at Lively Beach
For the second half of their session, we headed back to Lively Beach, the same spot where they said “I do.” The timing couldn’t have been better — the beach was buzzing with energy thanks to a kite festival happening that weekend, but the vibe was still relaxed and fun.
As the sun began to set, we captured those playful, candid moments in the surf and wrapped up with some moody, romantic portraits along the dunes, the light spilling perfectly over the horizon. The sky was clear, the air was calm, and everything just felt meant to be — a perfect way to celebrate one year of marriage.
If you’re dreaming of a laid-back coastal celebration or a beachy anniversary session, I’d love to help capture your story. I’m always up for an adventure! Whether it’s a wedding on the beach, an engagement in a lush forest, or a destination session somewhere new.
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