When I first got to speak with Jen and Phil I was so humbled by their genuine love for each other and for the people around them. Jen said to me, “my biggest fear is that I won’t get to talk to everyone at the wedding and I really want to make sure everyone knows how much we appreciate them.” I mean seriously, have you ever heard of a bride say this out loud?

They met at Jen’s 20th birthday party, many moons ago. Jen had a performing arts background in college and this artsy, musical connection has blossomed into not only a beautiful friendship, but an everlasting love. Throughout their relationship of 8+ years they have endured heartaches, twists, turns, long distances, and of course, happy times. Every bump in the road seemed to bring them closer to a point where they realized they could never live without each other and that brought us to here and now.

Every part of the day had such special touches! From the backyard ceremony, to the beautiful arbor and sand dollar place settings to the ring bearer walking down the aisle, everything was thought out.  Even the people Jen and Phil have lost along the year’s had a special place.  The remembrance tree that held pictures of all their loved ones who could not be with them stood at the base of the aisle.

One of my personal favorite touches was this necklace that Jen wrapped in her bouquet.  Her maiden name is Swan, so her father gave this to her the night of the rehearsal dinner to remember she will always be a Swan. It was so beautiful!

The friends and family that surrounds them is so extremely touching that I get goose bumps thinking about it. Jen thanked everyone at the reception and said something along the lines of “We are so thankful to have friends and family that don’t just go above and beyond for us once in a while, but everyday.”

They both have enormously caring and generous hearts and when I asked what they loved most about the other that is exactly what they said.  I’m so humbled that I could be part of such a special love story. Just look at all this love! Their first look was so so sweet!

I adore the mismatched dresses! So beautiful! And what an amazing property to take pictures at!

I adore this shot!

One of the most touching and special details of the day was the ring bearer carrying the rings down the aisle on the Bible Jen’s mother and grandmother both carried on their wedding day.  It was filled with personal touches like this–the ceremony song was written by one of their best friends, and the guests all joined in silent prayer wishing them well wishes in their marriage during the ceremony. The ceremony was held in the backyard of the house Jen grew up in.

In remembrance of Jen’s sweet grandmother… <3

 

Jen, Phil, friends and family of them, I can’t thank you enough for making me feel like part of the family that day. It was such an honor to be there for this special moment. And a huge thanks to my awesome second shooter Amberlee! Thanks for rocking this day with me girl!

Until we meet again my friends. <3