He bowed his head. The sweltering Florida heat and humidity enveloped him. “Hurry up!” Meanwhile, Jessie stared out the window. She couldn’t see his face, but looked excitedly at her future husband. It was finally time. I opened the door. Daisy, the dog, scrambled out onto the patio.

Inside, their siblings looked on, watching the moment Jessie and Mike first saw each other on their wedding day. Smiles adorned their faces as they watched the movie-like scene unfold. Jessie giggled as she stood behind him, and gently tapped him on the shoulder. Mike turned to face his bride. A wave of emotion, surprise, and pride exuded from Mike as he exclaimed “Wow!”. The two saw each other and embraced. Everyone inside sighed “Aww” simultaneously.

My favorite part about Jessie and Mike’s wedding was how personal everything was. Both of Mike’s brothers are priests, so they were celebrants during their mass. Jessie got ready at her sister’s home while Mike got ready at their new home together across the street. I was so grateful to have had the opportunity to photograph my friends’ wedding. If you want to read more about their engagement and relationship story check out my other blog post about them!

Both families had a few fun items they incorporated into the weekend. As is tradition for every big family event, Mike’s dad made T-shirts for the wedding weekend. Everyone wore them to breakfast in the morning. He also ordered giant heads of Jessie and Mike which made appearances at the welcome dinner and on the dance floor. Mike’s mom ordered him a pair of socks with Jessie’s face and hearts all over them. Jessie’s sister decorated her car with window paint with a tiara and arrows to the passenger seat saying “I’m getting married today!’“. These details made the weekend so much fun!

During their ceremony, Mike’s brother, Dan, brought up Harry Potter (Or in Mike’s attempted British accent “Hally Pottel”). He spoke of Lily’s ultimate sacrifice of love for Harry. And to truly love someone means you’re willing to sacrifice yourself for them. The ceremony was perfect with both of Mike’s brothers presiding over the mass.

Even though the heat index was 106 degrees, we still managed to spend some time outside for some bride and groom portraits at the beautiful Dubsdread Golf Course grounds. I loved the Spanish moss hanging from the trees – something I don’t get to see in Wisconsin! Inside, guests danced away to some original songs by Cat Ridgeway and the Tourists.

Jessie and Mike – thank you so much for letting be a part of your day. It was truly a blessing to witness you two enter into marriage together. I wish you both the best as you begin your married life, and I hope you two have the best honeymoon in Italy! Ciao!

Vendors:

Church: St. James Catholic Cathedral

Venue: Historic Dubsdread Ballroom

Hair and Makeup: Salon Dulay

Dress: BHLDN by Anthropologie

Bridesmaid Dress: David’s Bridal

Tuxedo: Men’s Wearhouse

Band: Cat Ridgeway and the Tourists

Invitations: Minted

Cake: Sweet by Holly