05/24/2026
Years ago, we brought Marlie (the golden retreiver) home as the tiniest little puppy, and she instantly became part of our family. She was there through so many seasons of life, and letting her go was one of the hardest decisions we’ve ever had to make. But sometimes life changes in ways you don’t expect, and deep down we knew she deserved more time, attention, and freedom than we were able to give her at that point in our lives.
When Mattie reached out about Marlie, I just knew. I knew she would be loved endlessly, included in everything, and given the kind of life every dog deserves. Even though rehoming her was heartbreaking, there was peace in knowing she was going somewhere special.
Then, Mattie reached out for me to photographer her wedding day. Seeing Marlie at Mattie’s wedding was such a full-circle moment for me. Watching her walk down the aisle, be included in the vows, spend the morning getting ready with everyone, and seeing the dog-inspired drinks and treats — it was impossible not to get emotional. You could see so clearly that she isn’t just a pet to them; she’s family.
It was bittersweet seeing the puppy I once held in my arms, my sons first puppy, now standing beside someone else on one of the biggest days of their life. But more than anything, I felt grateful. Grateful that life led Marlie exactly where she was meant to be. Sometimes loving something means letting it go where it can thrive, and seeing her so happy confirmed in my heart that we made the right decision.
