Oh man. There are a lot of moments I love about a wedding day but one of my favorites is when the groom get to see his bride for the first time, whether that be during the first look or while she walks down the aisle.  There was so much anticipation for this day from both families and being a part of Michelle and Derek’s wedding was SPECTACULAR. Not only do they have the sweetest, loving families, but the reception was a blast (and mostly country music), the venue was gorgeous and the emotions were running high.

When Michelle and Derek first invited me over to their house for lunch I was smitten by the two of them, the look on their faces when they caught each other’s eye was priceless. And I was also, of course, smitten by their horses. It was a rustic wedding that had been dreamed up for a long time, and as they put it “Two trails merging into one”. Michelle and Derek tied the knot at the beautiful Rock Island Lake Club in Sparta NJ

Derek was lucky enough to take some pictures with the horses pre-ceremony but due to the rain Michelle couldn’t ride her horse down the aisle. However, lucky for us, Rock Island Lake Club has the most gorgeous windows and lighting a photographer could ask for when you’re stuck inside!

Despite the rain coming down sideways outside, Michelle and Derek’s focus was solely on the most important factor of the day: they got to say I do to their soulmate. The girls were dressed in beautiful lace coral dresses and cowgirl boots- and the flower arrangements made by Derek’s sister, Alexis were out of this world! All the tiny details that made up their day were so touching and personal I couldn’t help crying multiple times… but when I really lost it was when Derek saw Michelle for the first time as she walked down the aisle. Guys- when I tell you my hair stood up on end and I got goosebumps all over I am not kidding you- it was the most real-raw-emotional moment I have ever had the pleasure of documenting.

As mentioned, it was the small details that made this day even MORE special. Michelle’s artistic talent was showcased on the horse painting with their wedding date on it and she even drew the picture inside the front cover of their guest book-I am in awe of her talent- and how special it made everything!

The reception went off with a bang and lots of country line dancing. Seriously, that’s my kind of night! {Luke Bryan anyone?}

Michelle and Derek, thank you for trusting me with your special day and I wish you so much happiness in the future! I can’t wait to see you again and hopefully come play with your horses and chickens 😉