Rachel & Joe are the kind of couple that truly light up when they are together. They had a wonderful wedding day and we were thrilled to capture it for them.
One of the best parts of wedding photography for us is capturing those little special moments throughout the day. These moments are what it’s all about. A few of those moments from this fantastic couple’s day are included in the following collection of our favorite images. For instance, the moment that Rachel finished putting on her dress and officially looked like a bride; the moment when they first laid eyes on each other on their wedding day; the moment they exchanged Bibles and read a special verse to each other; the moment Rachel’s mom watched her baby girl, now all grown up, prepare to marry the man she has been praying for; the moment that Joe was anxiously awaiting his beautiful bride at the end of the aisle; and the moment they shared the first of many dances together as husband and wife.
The day began for us at Woodland Acres, the barn where Rachel & Joe’s reception was held. They finished up their preparations there and we were able to take some of their portraits before the ceremony.
Rachel made her own bouquets & boutonnieres – pretty impressive I’d say!
The ceremony was held at Sturgis Missionary Church where Rachel’s dad pastored. She honored his memory by carrying a photo pendent on her bouquet and using his Bible, which was carried by her nephew, the ring bearer. It was a beautiful ceremony and Rachel surprised Joe with a song that she wrote, sang, and recorded herself. She has an amazing voice and I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place!
Following the ceremony we headed back to the barn for their celebration. Rachel’s mom made their wedding cake, which was DELICIOUS!! We had the opportunity to work with Rachel’s side of the family at her brother’s wedding only a few weeks before so we knew that we were in for a treat: amazing food and even more amazing company! What a fun group! For example, have you ever seen the groom toss a “manquet”? It’s a bouquet made of bacon, haha!
Rachel & Joe, we are so incredibly honored that we were able to be present for your wedding day and celebrate your commitment to one another. God’s blessings to you for a lifetime of happiness!
-Beth & Mike