When I arrived at Josh’s parents house on the morning of his wedding, I was pleasantly surprised at how relaxed he was. I thought for sure he was going to be the nervous one, but he was as cool as a cucumber. Ashley surprised me by being the one full of butterflies, caught up in the rush of the morning and the busy house. But I will never forget the calm that fell over her after she got in her dress. A quiet moment with just her sister putting on the finishing touches was just what she needed to put it all in perspective. Her “first look” with her mom and bridesmaids got everyone in the mood, and quietly behind me her grandmother cried tears of joy. This was obviously a special day for her, having her granddaughter getting ready in her home filled with photographs of Ashley and her sister and treasures from their childhood.
The day unfolded perfectly as they were surrounded by love and a lot of laughter. Once again the speeches brought me to tears, such beautiful, honest words celebrating not just the newlyweds, but also the other important people in their lives: parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. It was clear to me the value they placed on their family, friends, and each other. Josh praised his new wife’s hard work, and you know a couple is in it for the long haul when the groom thanks his new wife for all of her support building his new shed!
Honestly, I had a great day with you Josh and Ashley. You are obviously very loved by your friends and families. I can’t wait to see how happy you make each other as your marriage continues. Thank you for allowing me to document Day One.
