It’s not very often I show up on wedding day without ever having met the bride and groom face to face, but this was one of those times.  Our prior transactions were short and sweet…like we were always on the same page and just needed to check in.  I remember one of our first few emails Courtney commented, “I love your energy!” and I thought, “Thank GOD she doesn’t think my all caps excited comments with a million exclamation points and smile emojis were a plus and not a sign of someone who needed to lay off the caffeine (I’m sure someone out there has thought that about me before).  As the wedding drew nearer, Courtney and I hopped on the phone  and chatted like two old friends.

The morning started at a family friends house and the feeling of welcome was instant the moment I walked in the door.  The energy was high and I knew immediately why Courtney appreciated my “energy….” because she possesses it as well!  It was fun all day long, even in the moments that were a little more difficult….

From our conversations, I knew Courtney had lost her dad recently.  She took a lot of comfort knowing her dad had seen her dress and he loved it.  We made sure his presence would be shown in a few photographs as he was without a doubt, a big part of her day.

All morning, the skies were overcast and I thought just MAYBE the rain would hold off.  Well it did.  Until the exact moment we were to begin photographs downtown.  Enter Plan B…and GO!

I can’t stop staring at the image on the right..one of my favorite bridal portraits of all time.  Seriously, Courtney-GORGEOUS!!!!

The men arrived at our rain location shortly after the girls departed.  Except somewhere en route the girls never found the guys to give them the umbrellas…I think a few rain spots on the jackets is just a good reminder that yes, it rained ALL DAY on our wedding day!

An and his groomsmen were some of the best guys I have ever worked with!  They were so fun with just the right amount of ornery!

Courtney walked down the aisle with her uncle and met her mom (And An) at the end.  A few tears followed by a few laughs. An’s vows had everyone laughing and eventually cheering!

It was still pouring outside after the ceremony and into the night.  Luckily, the Freemasons has so many little nooks and crannies and amazing opportunities for photographs.  And I love a good challenge ;)

A special first dance with her uncle.  I’m not quite sure how she held it together but man, Courtney looking up gets me every time.

While An was dancing with his mom, his little niece came up and wanted a dance too.  She is the sweetest little thing!

The party and dancing were fabulous.  The dance floor huge.  The company out of this world amazing.  Right before I left, I BEGGED Courtney and An to go outside for just ONE photo…they knew I meant business and followed me without question and then understood why when they saw this amazing sky.  A perfect end to a beyond perfect day.

It’s also not very often I get to hang out with my bride and groom the day after the wedding….stay tuned for Courtney and An’s Vietnamese Tea Ceremony celebration-I can’t wait to share all the details!!!  Here’s a shout to some of the vendors:

Flowers:  The DIY Florist

Bridal Gown and Bridesmaids Dresses:  David’s Bridal

Hair:  Roots 828 Salon

Bakery:  Sassie Cakes

Caterer:  Shigs In Pit and Mad Anthony Brewing Company (some of the best reception food I have ever had!)

Ceremony and Reception Venue:  The Freemasons Hall

Decorating:  A Party Apart and Terri Hermann (mother of the bride)