Greg and Mandy : Married!

Seems to be a trend that my last wedding of the year is always my favorite. Maybe I’m coming off the adrenaline of a busy season, maybe it’s the beautiful fall weather, maybe that I’ve just happen to have fantastic couples that leave me on a high for my last wedding gig. Or maybe it’s the fact that I truly love Mandy, she’s my friend, and I was so honored to have witnessed her day.

Either way, I can’t help but love every minute of this wedding.

Mandy and Greg had a first look moment. It’s such a great experience to have that captured as part of your day. The love of the day is pushed right to the top. No nerves of anticipation that distract you from enjoying the day. Just a full, pleasant day with your sweetie.

During their first moments together, Mandy spun around and showed off her dress for Greg. So cute!

That’s a moment you don’t get to have after you’ve just walked down the aisle.

Mandy’s daughter, Katelyn, is definitely a “Mini – Mandy”.  You could tell she loved being in the wedding. And I really enjoyed seeing her with her mom and Greg on this day.

I have to interrupt to talk about the ring bearer:

This family… MELT. MY. HEART.

I admire this family. This cutie-patootie was adopted from Africa 9 months ago. I seriously cried when I met him. His adorable face and the joy that he has made me feel the tug for children waiting to be adopted. What a blessing. What a joy.

Ok, back to the wedding party!

Guys clowning around.

Girls workin’ it.

The whole party is pretty darn smashing, don’t you think????

And then to the church just waiting for the ceremony. Time to rest, socialize, and catching up on last minute phone calls, I guess.  😉

These girls were awesome. I always love a blessing before the ceremony.

Especially when it ends with a “High Bouquet”!

(Kinda like a high five but more girly.   …And more appropriate in wedding attire.)

Sweet poems from the sisters…

A sentimental, yet funny toast by dad….

…And an embarrassing and slightly incriminating toast from the best man!

Maybe a little too much for little ears! 🙂

 Overall this couple is loved and it showed by their friends and family’s words of encouragement.

The night continued on with dancing, Gus’ Pretzels, and

… a toy soldier dressed up like a bride?!?!?

(It was an inside joke, but I think after that evening, nobody was left out!)

Thank you Greg and Mandy! I loved your day. You brought tears to my eyes in such a joyful way. Congratulations!