The countdown finally came to an end, as did the week long stretch of rainy days.
Alyssa and Jerred’s dream of saying their vows in an open field on a warm and sunny December afternoon, and afterwards celebrating with friends and family inside a rustic barn, was no longer a dream!
(I mean… come on! These two have got to have some connections up there! The same thing happened the day of their engagement session, back in March!)
I cannot describe how honored I felt that they chose me to be their wedding photographer. I knew this would be a very meaningful and very tearful day ahead. So, with waterproof mascara and camera* in tow, I headed out to the Double K Rustic Ranch.
For a photographer, the wedding day usually starts with photographing all the details while the bride and groom are getting ready with their bridesmaids and groomsmen.
I love seeing how each bride chooses to pair her jewelry with shoes, flowers, and how all the little things come together. And the colors… and the textures…
Side note: just look at these GORGEOUS wedding boots, you guys! I couldn’t get enough of them!
Before I tell you anything else about this beautiful day, I need to introduce you to Stetson, Alyssa’s sweet little boy who stole Jerred’s heart, and gained a “bonus dad” on this special day! Keep scrolling for a tear-jerking moment between these two during the ceremony.
Those last minutes before everyone is done getting ready are some of the most emotional moments of the day… The reality of what is about to happen sets in. The bride and the groom usually have a meaningful moment with their parents. Heartfelt letters are read, thoughtful gifts exchanged… And then, the nerves are usually released with some good laughter and inside jokes with your bridesmaids and groomsmen.
But, nothing will bring you a more peaceful calm more than setting your eyes on your beloved one, touching their hand, or hearing their voice before you walk down the aisle.
It was time for the ceremony to begin…
In the first row, Alyssa and her family had saved a seat in memory of her big brother who passed away several years ago, but still has a tangible presence in everyone’s lives.
And here it is… my absolute favorite moment of the day!
Alyssa walked down the aisle with her Dad and Stetson, and as she approached, Jerred got down on one knee and held Stetson’s hand while promising to be his guide, best friend, and to love and protect him and his mommy with every cell of his being for the rest of his life. The ceremony had barely started, and the tears were already flowing in front of and behind my camera!
And then, the ceremony continued in waves of laughter and happy tears.
VENDORS:
Venue: Double K Rustic Ranch
Florist: MyArtbeat
Bride's and bridesmaids' dresses: David's Bridal
Groom’s and groomsmen’s attire: Men’s Wearhouse
DJ/PhotoBooth: Bust A Move DJ Services
Cake & Dessert: Gigi's Cupcakes
Catering: Gepetto's Pizza Truck
Invitations: PenelopesPaperPantry
