Fifty years ago Jay and Lya wed. Lya grew up on a small island off the east coast of Africa and Jay, working for the US met her during his travels. They quickly fell in love, married, and returned to the US. Lya learned to appreciate the food of her new home and fell in love with the desert and its people. They welcomed two children and spent much time caring and being deeply involved in their community.

When their daughter asked if I would be willing to come and photograph their anniversary celebration I knew that it was just the type of event I would love. Their daughter couldn’t stop raving about her parents and how much they deserved a party honoring their marriage. I completely agreed. I asked her to tell me a bit about their life now, fifty years after the first wed. She said that if I were to walk into their home one afternoon I’d be welcomed by two little barking dogs, an immaculate but comfortable little house, the smell of food cooking or scented candles, her mom preparing hors d’oeuvres in the kitchen with her dad as the sous chef. From their, she said, we’d sit down at an informal dining table or go out on the patio where they would proceed to tell me of their worldly travels, their friends, their accomplishments and their plans for the upcoming year. She knew that I’d walk away talking about all that I would have learned that day.

In just the short time that I spent with Jay and Lya that day I knew their daughter was correct. They really were incredible people and I was so glad to have be a part of their celebration. Congratulations, you two. I hope you love your photos.

Yvette,
Your Las Cruces Anniversary Photo Shoot Photographer