Tanya and AJ – Family Backyard Wedding

September 25, 2020

Weddings

I go to a LOT of weddings. But I’ve never felt more part of the family than I did at Tanya and AJ’s wedding. At their dinner I was literally sitting at the same table as Tanya and AJ – what an honor! I’ve known Tanya and AJ for a little over a year now – I was lucky enough to get to know Tanya through my other job. So when they got engaged a few months ago I was ecstatic that they asked me to photograph their gorgeous backyard wedding!

These two are both pharmacists and they met during their freshman year of college at Drake University. After dating across state lines (AJ was in Illinois while Tanya was in Wisconsin) for several years, these two finally bought their first home together in the spring. They enjoyed doing a few home projects together, including redoing the main bedroom. During the big reveal, AJ planned a surprise proposal and even included their cute pup, Dehli! Of course Tanya said yes!!

Their day was SO special filled with family. Tanya’s sister was watching via zoom and at one point she and her husband held up a cute sign they had made to celebrate Tanya and AJ! Their love was felt from afar.

My Favorite Moment

It’s hard to pick one moment! But if I had to pick one it would be when they were taking photos downtown on the riverwalk. Not only are the photos some of my favorites, but it was so fun walking around town with Tanya and AJ dressed in their wedding attire as every person walking by says congrats! Tanya’s dad came along for the photos because he wanted to get some of it on video. I loved seeing how involved Tanya’s dad was in their day!

A Note to Tanya and AJ

WOW! Thank you for treating me like a member of your family on your wedding day. I am so grateful to have you two in my life. I wish you both the BEST beginning to your new chapter and I hope you can make your trip to Thailand for your honeymoon in the post-pandemic world. I admire how much you two have stood by each other as you’ve been dating from different states. Enjoy your newlywed bliss!

Special thanks to the amazing vendor team!

Venue: Couple’s Home
Catering: Skyline
Rentals: All Star Rentals
Hair and Makeup: Opal Bloom
Invitations: Zazzle
Cake: Rick’s Bakery
Jewelry: Family heirlooms
Dress: David’s Bridal
Shoes: DSW
Florals: Family Friend