Thursday, November 3, 2011

Our Wedding

After months of planning, decision making, crafting, designing and meticulously coordinating, the day finally arrived - and it was, undoubtedly, the happiest day of my life. 
There were so many people in town that I hardly ever get to see - including three of my bridesmaids who live on the East Coast and one in the Mid-West. Being in the presence of so many people that I care about was like a dream come true. 
I think if I were to pick my favorite moments, it would be parts of the ceremony and dancing with Ryan for the first time as his wife. I didn’t expect to be so taken by the ceremony, but saying those vows to each other was the most amazing experience - And the moment I saw Ryan for the first time as I was walking down the isle was one I will forever cherish. 
Below are the lyrics to our “first dance” song, “Stay With You” by John Legend. The words of this song perfectly describe the love and devotion Ryan and I have for each other. I was definitely crying when we were dancing because I truly feel the words of this song - and I know I’m lucky to be able to say that. You can listen to the song here
We've been together for a while now
We're growing stronger everyday now
It feels so good and there's no doubt
I will stay with you as each morning brings sunrise
And the flowers bloom in springtime
All my love you can rely
And I'll stay with you
Oh I'll stay with you through the ups and the downs
Oh I'll stay with you when no one else is around
And when the dark clouds arrive
I will stay by your side
I know we'll be alright
I will stay with you
Though relationships can get old
They had a tendency to grow cold
We have something like miracle
Yeah, I'll stay with you
Oh I'll stay with you through the ups and the downs
Oh I'll stay with you when no one else is around
And when the dark clouds arrive
I will stay by your side
I know we'll be alright
I will stay with you
And there will be heartaches and pains, yes it will
But through it all, we will remain
In this life, we all know
Friends may come, they may go
Through the years I know
I will stay
And in the end I know that we'll find
Love so beautiful and divine
We'll be lovers for the lifetime, yeah
And I'll stay with you
I will stay with you
Oh I'll stay with you through the ups and the downs
Oh I'll stay with you when no one else is around
And when the dark clouds arrive
I will stay by your side
I know we'll be alright
I will stay with you
Everything will be fine
And I will stay with you
Through the end of time
I will stay with you
One of the things people told us about our wedding day is that it will absolutely fly by - and that is an understatement. It really isn’t something you can prepare for...you become so wrapped up in each moment of the ceremony and reception that before you know it, it’s suddenly over - and there was a part of me that was a little sad. But at the same time, I wouldn’t have changed anything about our day - it really was just perfect and I’m thankful that Ryan and I made a point to take-in each moment of our special day. 
We’re so overwhelmed with gratitude toward so many people for making this special day possible. Our family, friends, wedding party and wonderful vendors, who worked to make our day even more memorable. 
Our wedding day was just bursting with love - the love we felt from everyone around us, and the love we feel for each other. 

Below are a just a few of my favorite photos from the wedding. Thank you to Jodi Yorston Photography - you truly are a talented artist! You can view more here.
Bella Piazza Winery


My flower balls - I was obsessed :)


Just a good lookin' group of guys!




I have to pick a photo for a large canvas that comes with our photography package. This one is a possibility. What do you think?


At first I didn't really care about the cake - but after my initial design meeting with Freeport Bakery, I walked out of there feeling VERY excited. I just loved it - especially the aubergine bows :).


We lucked out with beautiful clouds in the sky that day.


Love these ladies!


This was our getaway car, but also turned into a photo prop. It's a 1949 Cadillac. 


So in love with this man!




Our "happily ever after" shot :)