When Melanie looks at Andrew, her eyes sparkle. Literally. Her eyes shine as her face lights up in a smile, and his returning glance could warm even the coldest cynic. They are not afraid to let their love show, even in the midst of a crowd. And why should they be? They proved to one another that they would stay committed in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, months before their wedding. As Melanie navigated her first couple of years living alone in the States, battling a recurring illness while trying to balance school and work, Andrew lent her a shoulder to cry on and arms to carry her when she felt weak. When a couple goes through tough months together, they deserve to fully enjoy the good times, to soak up the joy and excitement of a day like their wedding day.

This is a significant post for me to write because Melanie and I have been friends for longer than I can say about most people– even Grant! My family moved to Slovakia when I was ten, and we lived with Melanie’s family for over a month as we searched for our own house. That adds up to eight kids and four adults living under the same roof! It’s a special kind of friendship that grows out of that, something that often feels familial. Even once we lived in different houses, we would get together often for sleepovers: baking chocolate-chip cookies, watching American movies, talking about boys… It was so special for me to photograph Melanie’s wedding, to see her face light up like I’ve never seen it before, and to spend time with the rest of the family again. Editing the pictures brought tears to my eyes again, because there is nothing like seeing someone you love looking so in love.

Mel, you looked lovely.

Melanie wore her mom’s wedding gown, and it fit her like a glove (no alterations needed!).

Having lived in various countries and traveled to even more, it was important to Melanie that they incorporate wedding practices from all over the globe. It is Slovak tradition for a groom and his groomsmen to pick the bride up from her parents’ house, to receive one last blessing from the parents, and then for them to make their way to the church together. A few changes had to be made since Melanie’s family doesn’t live in Tennessee with her, so both sets of parents (and the maid of honor and best man) waited for Andrew at Melanie’s house with her.

Grant’s view:

Mine:

While the groomsmen waited outside, Melanie and Andrew spoke to their parents and thanked them for their love and support. I have to admit, I used my camera to hide the tears running down my face. There was so much love and respect exchanged in that room, and I felt honored as both a friend and photographer to witness it.

Heading to the ceremony…

Both sets of parents spoke during the ceremony, under the chuppah that Melanie’s mom had sewn.

Grant’s favorite!

The light that day was amazing.

Family.

The outdoor reception perfectly suited Melanie and Andrew’s personalities as well as the warm, beautiful day.

Allison and Joel, Melanie’s sister and brother-in-law, are amazing swing dancers. They had quite an audience once they got out on the dance floor!

I have never seen a car decorated with post-it notes. Props to whoever thought of it! I think Andrew enjoyed trying to dislodge as many as possible as he sped out of the parking lot!

Melanie and Andrew, thank you for the honor of photographing your wedding day. Lots of love to you both… and come visit sometime!

(Katie and John, yours wedding is up next!)