I don't believe it's an accident that people come into our lives, and this idea is one that has held so true to me in photography. I have always loved that through this blessing I get to call a job, I get to meet people I never would have met and be a part of one of the biggest days of their lives. Each person I meet is someone who holds a special place in my heart, and Jacob and Tess are no different.
It was so evident that Jacob and Tess kept their marriage as the main focus of their wedding day. Even when it was pouring while she got ready, Tess was not fazed one bit. She knew at the end of the day she would take his last name, and they would be together always. As luck would have it (or maybe not just luck!) the rain stopped right when we went outside for bridal party portraits, and it held off again during the bride and groom portraits.
One thing that struck me about Jacob and Tess' wedding was the importance of prayer in the whole day. The minister prayed of course, but afterwards during their portraits, when I gave the two a moment alone, the first thing they did was pray together as husband and wife. Later that day there was a prayer before dinner and when it came time for Jacob to express gratitude to the guests, he ended with a prayer thanking God for blessing him with such an amazing wife. It moved me to tears.
Jacob and Tess, thank you so much for keeping the most important part of your day in focus. I am so thankful we got to meet, and I have been changed by the way you conducted your entire wedding day. I love you both so much, and I know that your marriage - centered on prayer and what matters most - will last for a lifetime.
Ceremony: All Nations Church | Reception: Bayview Commonwealth Center | Planning/Coordination: The DIY Bridal Network | Florals: Sherri Norcini | Hair/Makeup: Kelsey Antee | Dress: David's Bridal | DJ/Video/Lighting: Big Dreams Entertainment | Second Photographer: Alexandra Garvey Photography | Cupcakes: Couture Cakes by Nika | Linens: Eva's House Events
While Tess got ready with her ladies, Jacob opened a special surprise gift from his bride.
Tess was surrounded by her closest friends on her wedding day.
All of Jacob's groomsmen totally pulled off the GQ look.
When it was finally time for the ceremony, Jacob couldn't hold back the tears...and neither could the rest of the room.
Jacob and Tess wrote each other notes and nailed them in a box with a wine bottle to read and reminisce on their anniversary in one year.
Tess, you are adorable!
We headed over to the Bayview Commonwealth Center and found an amazing backdrop for a stunning bride...
Oh and by the way...they had 13 different kinds of cupcakes! Talk about difficult choices...
And finally, surrounded by friends and family, these high school sweethearts left to begin their life together. Congratulations, Tess and Jacob!
