I love this wedding story so, so much…

It was a cold day in February, but the sun was shining and hearts were warm and happy. :) I arrived to the beautiful, historic Airbnb just down the road from Linganore Winery (where the reception would be held later) to meet Ruth and her family and friends as they prepared for the day ahead.

Her parents who had traveled down from Wisconsin, and her sister were all absolutely beaming with joy as they took in each moment of the morning. The sweet anticipation in the air felt so tangible. Everyone sat around talking and enjoying each other’s company, drinking tea and laughing together as Ruth sat getting her hair done and her friends finished up their makeup.

After she was ready, she passed gifts to her bridesmaids which were velvet wraps for them to wear along with their dresses. They had a bit of trouble figuring out how to wear them, which was fun to watch!

Ruth also had a special necklace made for herself and her mother out of her grandmother’s diamonds. She surprised her mom with this, with her father and sister present, after which they shared in a sweet, special family prayer and blessing…

Yes if you’re wondering, I couldn’t help but cry during these moments, and it wasn’t the last time that day. :)

After a little bite to eat, it was time for Ruth to get dressed! Loved that “high five” from dad on his way out the door as she came down the stairs.

Ruth popped into the other room where her girls were waiting for her…

We headed to the church were Ruth shared in a very special time of prayer and thanksgiving with her girls. (cue the tears again!) It was such a deeply intimate, loving, real moment to witness and I was so moved by it. Each of the girls prayed and lifted up the wishes of their hearts to God for Ruth and Josh, in gratitude and blessing, it was so beautiful and special…

It was COLD but they powered through! Their reception was cozy and full of warmth. Ruth is a baker and artist, and made and decorated their wedding cake! I was so blown away by it! No one could take their eyes off of them during their first dance together.

Josh is just so in love with his bride, and it’s the kind that belongs in the movies like the Notebook. I just loved watching them together and seeing the way he loves her. They are just so meant to be… They are both so kind, gentle-spirited, humble, and just lovely. They deserve the world and I know that all of the dreams they’ve made together will come to be, because of the love they share and the respect and support they have for one another.

Josh’s mom did all of the flowers for the wedding too. She is so incredibly talented!

Also can we just take a minute to appreciate how gorgeous their rings are?

Josh will take care of Ruth, and Ruth will take care of Josh. They truly see each other. They prioritize each other. They respect each other. And most importantly, they have prayed for each other even before they met.

Their faith will carry them through anything. To me, that was the most inspiring aspect of the day, to see how they put Christ in the center of their lives, their relationship, and now their marriage. This was a special one. This was a day I’ll never forget. I’m truly always blessed and touched to be part of my couple’s wedding days and privileged that they welcome me into such a special time in their lives. This one, in so many ways, inspired my heart in ways I’ll never forget.

God has already blessed Ruth and Josh, and I know he will continue to forever.