Oh, how I wish you all could have been there to witness this wedding.  Think of the greatest (not cheesiest) love story movie you’ve seen, and you have just a little picture of what Kate & Ryan’s story is like.

The beautiful ceremony at City Flats Hotel in Grand Rapids was the stage for the joining of two lives….two people so obviously meant to be together.  A girl, from Michigan.  A boy, from Washington.  Both living abroad (Morocco & Jordan), and meet in Rome.  Their relationship was primarily long distance, but now….now there would be no more separation.

Their story is one of those stories that will make you cry joyful tears,  will inspire you to dream big, dare bigger, and live out every gift you are given.  Really, truly, it will.

I met Kate over a cup of tea & a skype conversation, but it wasn’t until the day of the wedding that I finally got to MEET her, and her beloved Ryan, and to celebrate with them.

First of all, we loved that their ceremony was at 11:30, on a Sunday, with a brunch following….not that we were married so long ago, but it definitely brought back some memories, as it’s exactly what we did!!  There were so many similarities, yet Ryan & Kate’s…..oh, so sweet….so pretty, and entirely them.

Starting with her dress, which she DESIGNED AND MADE HERSELF.  I mean, really?  It was BEAUTIFUL.  Vintagey, flowy, pretty, and 100% perfect.  From there, you can’t get much better, right?  Wrong.  Simple & stunning flowers, guys with suspenders, and perfect weather for photographing an early morning wedding.

The ceremony was essentially their story – told by Ryan’s father, who married them surrounded by loving friends & family.

Following the ceremony, a tasty brunch began, followed by some very spirited dancing.  This was a crowd that loved to be on their feet, tapping their toes, and celebrating.  And celebrate they did….and us with them.

We were so touched by them, their sweet spirits, and we look forward to watching their life grow, as they journey through time and place together!