Personal Post: My Brother Got Married!

This past weekend I was blessed to be a part of my younger brother’s wedding as he married his fiance, Arlyn.  It was a stunning outdoor ceremony over the lake in Manitowish Waters with many handmade details, and little touches to make the day feel special.  The weather could not have been any more perfect and it was such a joy to celebrate with all the family and close friends that gathered together.

Josh and I are our parents’ only children, and so we grew up as close as anyone could imagine.  We shaped one another’s personalities, we were each other’s constant playmate, and we fought daily like all close siblings do.  I feel beyond grateful to have a family I am so close with and a brother who is also a friend and confidant.  This wedding was a chance for Josh and Arlyn to express the love they have found together, but also for us to welcome Arlyn to the family.  With that, I would like to say so many congratulations to the both of them, and we wish you all good things!

Professional photography was done by April Zelenka of Madison.  I brought along my film camera and limited myself to just a single roll (true self restraint) to share my very favorite things about the wedding day. :)

{ Michelle + Kevin = MARRIED! }

Michelle and Kevin's wedding was the celebration we photographers dream of.  With every little detail attended to: gorgeous floral arrangements, place cards tucked in wine corks, even bottles of wine for guests to sign wishing them well on future anniversaries.  Each little element spoke about exactly what Michelle and Kevin are like as a couple.  Throughout the day everything was incredibly relaxed, festive, and filled with a million tiny surprises to keep guests on their toes.  

It started with a moment alone for the two of them: the first look.  Kevin waited on the end of the bridge at Pamperin Park, nervous with anticipation, while Michelle slowly approached prepared to take away every bit of anxiety just by holding him in her arms.  There is something that feels so special about being chosen to be a part of such an intimate moment when a groom first sees his bride - the woman who will now become his family, who will be there for him through thick and thin, and everything in between.  First looks help us remember this moment, to hold onto it for longer.

Even as the rain came down in sheets outside the reception tent, the mood was joyous and guests were happy.  As dinner began, the heavy rain turned into a light shower, and the sun came out long enough to create a full rainbow arching over the tent, such a wonderful symbol for two people about to begin their lives together.  It was our pleasure to be a part of such a beautiful day with two people who really deserve each other.  Many congratulations, Michelle and Kevin!