Where Trust will lead:
One month before the wedding, I receive the terrible news. Hannah's mother fell victim to a stroke, while in Oklahoma of all places. All I was able to ascertain was that her condition was dire and she may not make it.
Hannah even reached out to me about the possibility of postponing the wedding. I assured her that her wedding would have beautiful photos no matter when it was.
Thankfully, after a great deal of prayer, we found out that she was not going to die. But after the relief and gratefulness, we had to face the next challenge. How was she going to get home?
Through divine providence, they were able to bring her home. But it became clear very quickly, she would not be able to attend the wedding. But the plans to move forward with the wedding were underway... with the sure knowledge that God had provided them a miracle and He would provide a way for her to be a very special part of this day.
The day was a joy-filled one from the beginning. The beautiful bride gathering with her closest friends to prepare on a brilliantly sunny day. Amidst calming lavender colors and simple details this West Akron wedding promised to be a memorable one...
Starting with some emotional first looks with the beautiful bride's sister, bridesmaids and then the father of the bride and brothers.
And those weren't the only tears shed... at least, not by me. From there we went to the hospice where Hannah's mom was still recuperating. And I will be the first to tell you that my viewfinder was fogging up. How great is our God that He would make that day such a special one? One filled with joy, instead of overcome with grief.
(I will not post the photos at the hospice out of respect for Charise and her family. Those are private... but oh, so beautiful.)
Arrived at St. Sebastian's just in time for their Wedding Mass in Extraordinary Form.
It was a beautiful Mass, a wonderful celebration of the union of two wonderful souls. Followed by a bubble grand exit...
And then portraits at Walsh University, the bride's alma mater.
We were outside taking photos when thunder could be heard to echo and I knew from experience, we needed to move this indoors. So we moved to the chapel... and oh, how the excellent the photos... This was the first wedding using the light kit and I was excited to have the chance to use it.
Afterwards, Walsh University staff let us in their newly build student center which has two stories of floor-to-ceiling windows... can you say, DREAMY!
Then it was time to PAR-TAY! Thankfully, the party was held in a pavilion because halfway through the reception it was a torrential downpour! Which made for some epic photos! The party was hopping the entire time, a true celebration for the beautiful sacrament that just took place.
Finished the night with a private last dance and sparkler exit. Reminiscing about this beautiful wedding has me smiling for joy. How much has changed in only a year. As they prepare to welcome new life and Charisse continues on her difficult but rewarding journey to healing, I am reminded of the true beauty of our faith. How rewarding it is when you truly trust in God's plan.
Please continue to pray for Sam and Hannah!
Lux Fiat,
Joanie
