On the grounds of the beautiful Great Escape Lodge, a big white tent stood just down the path from the beautiful Castle Rock Lake. The rain gently pattered on the roof while guests finished their meals. The scent of delicious BBQ was lingering in the air. A beautiful girl in a red dress held the microphone in her left hand, a piece of paper and tissues in her right. Stopping for a moment first to collect herself, Kaitlin, the Matron of Honor, began speaking directly to the Bride. Her best friend. There were lots of tears shed and smiles shared as she spoke about what a kind and loyal friend Emily is. But what stuck most in my mind was when she said, “The best thing that makes Emily who she is, is her integrity.” I found myself reflecting on what I knew about Emily and Zack’s relationship, and I couldn’t agree more. Emily recently converted to Catholicism to be able to marry at St. Joseph’s Church in Friendship, because it was important to both her & Zack. I love the commitment they made to each other and the Church and it was an honor to capture their ceremony there.

During her speech, I also learned that the Bride and Matron of Honor met all the way back in kindergarten! The curly haired Emily bounced up to Kaitlin one day and asked, “Wanna be friends?!” And they’ve been inseparable ever since! Even though I’ve only met Emily twice in person, I can still picture that fateful meeting perfectly! It was very clear to me during this entire wedding day, that everyone present hold Zack and Emily in the highest regard. The love surrounding them was overwhelming. But what was even more clear to me was how much Zack and Emily hold EACH OTHER in the highest regard. As you’ll see below, it rained almost their entire wedding day, but Emily and Zack were beaming like it was 70 and sunny! The way these two laugh & interact together lights up the entire room. I have never seen a Groom smile as wide or laugh as loud as Zack did the first time he said, “My wife!” after the ceremony. All that mattered to them was that they were together. Together & Married!

Emily and Zack, thank you both so much for having me be a part of your wedding day! If all of my couples love each other the way you do, I will be a very blessed photographer indeed! I had the best time laughing with you and soaking up all the love and warmth from you and your guests. I wish you nothing but joy & happiness in life and your marriage! Congratulations, newlyweds!

THE CREATIVE TEAM

wedding planner: Heppily Ever After

floral: ceremony: Anchor Floral reception & bouquets: Briar Loft

venue: Great Escape Lodge

Bartender & Mixologist: Bartender 608 Intoxicologists · DJ: The DJ Mike Company · bride’s dress: BHLDN by anthropologie · groom’s attire: High Cotton Ties · cake: Becky’s Sugar Shack · catering: Smoky Jon’s · bridemaid’s dress: Jenny Yoo · church: St. Joseph’s in Friendship Wi · furniture/tent rental: D & S Party Tent Rentals photographer: Emily Joy Photography