ONE YEAR AGO...

I married my best friend.

He's not only that, but an amazing step-father to my daughter (our daughter). To begin the infinite list of qualities this man withholds, would leave you reading for days. He's truly an exceptional human being. Throughout the beginning of our relationship, he knew that I wasn't looking for only a friend, but a partner in life. And after life's obstacles leading up to this point, I wasn't looking for just anyone. I wasn't in this alone. Another life was also being taken into account; Audriana's. A "packaged deal" as I liked to call it. 

As we grow up, we learn the importance of one's morals and values; how crucial they are when applied to a relationship and marriage. With my own life reevaluated, I was determined to not settle for anything less than what my daughter and I deserved; loyalty, respect, and happiness. It's funny how God answers those prayers the moment you least expect it. By His grace, and mercy, He presented to me a piece of Himself in the flesh... Chris.

Not a day goes by that I don't thank him for all he does for our family. He works hard, but even at its most demanding moments he never ceases to put his family anywhere else but first. From the beginning, he stepped up to the role of a loyal husband and father figure without hesitance. And for that I am forever grateful. He's a good man, who dedicates all he can to make sure our family is well and taken care of. I feel like the luckiest woman in the world to have him as my husband. We aren't perfect, and there are days that challenge our patience - as any marriage consists of - but we have learned to work at it as a team; together.

On this very day, last year, I will never forget the butterflies I endlessly endured the entire day. Just the thought of marrying the love of my life, finally making this fairytale a reality, was simply overwhelming. But luckily with my best friends by my side, we managed to get through the morning with nothing but laughs and excitement; rarely feeling nervous.

The girls and I had stayed the night downtown, at The Brown Hotel, so it altered as our dressing room the day of the wedding. My photographer, and good friend, was there to capture every developing moment. Her and I agreed we loved the historical architecture this hotel provided, not to mention the colors of the hotel were closely parallel to those of my wedding party. Win, win! 

But of course, the materialistic aspect is only a detail of miniscule importance. Today was the day I would vow my love and devotion to Chris, and we would unite together as one. 

When it came down to the moment of seeing him, we originally wanted to keep it as traditional as possible. However, we decided we wanted to have that special moment to ourselves before presenting it to an audience. Just me and him. And so we did. One of the best photographs captured that day, was the moment I walked out to greet my future husband.   

My thoughts a that time were of everything you could think of. "There's the love of my life... the proof of God's being and love... this man is about to be mine forever... I wonder if he's as nervous as I am... I hope I don't trip... Do we kiss yet or wait until the ceremony... OMGosh, this is reality...Don't cry, don't cry, don't cry..." 

That's really about the extreme of my momentary thoughts at that time. I was overwhelmed with emotion I couldn't control. It's crazy to think that a year has already flown by so quickly. The adventures along the way were nothing as I expected. They were so much more. Shortly after the wedding we moved into a house, renovated it from top to bottom, and now here we are with a baby on the way. In between all of that, we have grown so much as a couple. The loyalty, respect and happiness I longed for, has been well over exceeded by this man. I love him, I love him, I love him. 

Chris, thank you for the years of your love. You never fail to make to me laugh when I need it, or when I least expect it! You're truly the light in my life, and my rock when I need strength. I always see God in you, when you step up to be there for Audriana in every way you can. It's an honorary role you've accustomed with an open heart, and magnitude. THANK YOU, for that. I love you so much, with every ounce of my being. 

My angel, my love... you are.

Fall Wedding ::look book::

Another momentous occasion deserving of a look book. This past weekend, a good friend of ours got married, thus resulting in an overload of pictures! The details were exquisite and the guest list consisted of yet another High School reunion. I've known Jamie for over 20 years, since we first went to grade school together. She and I were also teammates for our high school volleyball team at Providence High. I was so happy to bear witness to this special occasion; beginning her new life with her new husband, Sam.

The wedding was held at one of our local, and historical hotels downtown, The Seelbach. It's quite a popular venue for gatherings of any sort, but I'd say a large variety of those are weddings. Upstairs the ceremony was held in their old Grand Ballroom. Recently renovated, it was stunning and seemed to be the perfect location for an intimate wedding.


First entering the room, you are completely overwhelmed by the FLOWERS. I guess I should also mention the bride's family is the owner of one our local, and very popular florists, Nance Floral Shoppe. Therefore, the flower details were certainly at a high expectancy, but I was still completely blown away. The aisles consisted of large vase arrangements, along side candles.

As you can see, it was beautiful. Given our seats I wasn't able to get the full view of the front, but it was certainly something to see as you can imagine.

We were told the candles caught the eye of more than just the guests seated next to them. Apparently, the ring bearer (groom's son) was so mesmerized, he asked if he could blow them out on his way down the aisle. Kids! Hilarious.

Well, the ceremony was as expected - a tear jerker! The groom immediately teared up when he saw Jamie coming down the aisle. I thought I was going to lose it right then and there. Luckily I was able to get through it with just a couple watery eyes; although these pregnancy hormones could have suggested otherwise. After the ceremony we made our way down to the Seelbach's lower level venue, the Rathskeller. This is where the reception was held. Again... breathtaking.

A beautiful arrangement of center pieces, votive candles, and each place setting accompanied by a purple rose. Gorgeous. And as always, the hatred part of blogging, I tried capturing every detailed shot I could. The lighting was as it should be, dim and romantic, but it is the absolute enemy for photographs. I was able to lighten the exposure, but it still doesn't do justice to the ambiance of this occasion.

After dinner and the dance formalities, so began the mingling. It's great seeing old friends and classmates, catching up on life's recent events (engagements, pregnancies, etc.). I just love it! The bride actually had three out of her five bridesmaids who were pregnant. Isn't that something?

One of them being another good friend, and fellow volleyball player, Juli (on the right). This spunky lady is truly one of the most sweetest gals I've been blessed to know. Sadly, she lives clear across the country in California, so it's great to see that face when possible!! I'm so happy for her and her husband on their soon-to-be baby boy. It was so exciting to find out she was having a boy, also. Yay for baby boys!!!! Not to mention, she's only about 5 weeks behind me, due in February.

Here with our bestie, Erika, we attempted to get a side by side shot of our baby bumps. There's mine... can you see her little bump? No? Neither could I. And yes I gave her a lot of crap about it, too. She's just tiny and it's her first baby - at least that's what I keep telling myself. Ha! She was simply glowing. This pregnancy is going to be good to her, I can tell. :) Congrats again, Juli and Brad!!!!

After further mingling, we managed to snap some more photos of everyone together - the best we could. We were hoping to get one of our classmates, but with the dance floor a blaze and drinks flowing, it was pretty difficult to keep everyone in one place for too long. Nonetheless, we got what we could. Along with a few silly photos of me and Erika, just being ourselves.

And I can't forget my handsome date. He was such a trooper that night; escorting me to and from the bathroom every hour. Although he does it with no hesitancy, I know it gets redundant. Ha! He's so good to me, and I'm grateful. LOVE YOU, CHRIS.

I just love LOVE, and true love stories at that. The story of how Jamie and her new husband, Sam, met reminds me of a classic movie. Although God's plan is never written out for us to know ahead of time, making these fate drawn relationships spectacular in ways we can't explain. I'm so happy for Jamie and Sam. I wish them the absolute best on this new journey together!! Thanks for letting us be a part of your special day! Sending you lots and lots love!!! Xoxo

A Vintage Wedding

No crazy shenanigans were encountered this weekend, but it was a special one! My dearest friend, Lindsay, and her fiance unified their love to one another surrounded by family and friends. The rains held off, and the weather was perfect. I was completely overwhelmed by the beauty and grace God shed on this day for the two of them. It was absolutely flawless.

I truly love weddings. I can never get enough of the gooshy, romantic atmosphere that surrounds the day. I'm a serious hopeless romantic; my weakness. Also, the wedding could not have taken place at a more romantic venue; Huber's Lake House. During this fall season, it's great to take advantage of the beautiful outdoor scenery. Simply breathtaking.

Now onto one of my favorite parts of weddings... THE DETAILS. As appropriately titled, Lindsay's decorative inspiration was certainly that of a vintage style. Everything from her dress, to the table decor and especially the cake.

 Unfortunately, I was not able to capture the delicious meal OR my slice of cake, because being that I'm quick to indulge, there was but a second in between placing the plate on the table and shoving the food into my mouth. It was a pleasant sight, I assure you. But the food was indeed delicious.

Towards the end of the night, everyone gathered in a line and awaited the extravagant sparkler exit for the bride and groom; one of my favorite reception exit details. Fortunately, the consumption of adult beverages and use of fire did not cause injuries to anyone. Success.

In closing, I want to say congratulations again to the newlywed couple. Lindsay and Byron, I hope you find unlimited years of happiness together. There's always ups and downs, but with true love and faith you will have the ability to conquer all the obstacles. Have patience with one another; every year is a growing stage together. And more than anything, have fun!! Now that you have your mate-in-life, ENJOY IT and never take the days for granted. :) Best wishes to you both!!!!!!!!

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Showering Love

With wedding season still in effect, we are approaching another special occasion of my dear friend, Lindsay, and her soon-to-be husband, Byron.

I stole this from her album... sorry Lindsay, Ha!

This past weekend I was happy to be a part of one (of three) of her bridal showers; gathering with close girlfriends of the bride. Celebrations are so much fun! Especially, when you're surrounded by a great group of people. And these girls never cease to entertain.

On my way to these types of occasions, I always find myself anticipating the food, and decorations. It's just as exciting as the event itself! ;) Well, let me just say the details were just lovely!! Seriously, too adorable. Best believe I snagged a few shots to share. 

 And call me slow to catch up, but I was just fascinated with these chalk labels! Again, I love details and my eye catches just about every little thing. Doing a little research, I discovered the multiple options of these cute little gadgets. You can get them in all different shapes and sizes. 

Here were a couple other cute details of the party. On each table, there was a framed photo of the couple and a mason jar with hydrangeas and gerbera daisies. Beautiful!! :) 

I'm so happy for Lindsay! She's been a dear friend of mine for about 8 years. Since I've known her, she's always had such a big heart, and love for those around her. I'm looking forward to celebrating her marriage here in just two shorts weeks!!! :) Love this girl!!

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(( My Best Friend's Wedding )) Part 4: THE BIG DAY!!!!!

It's hard to believe that we're already counting UP from the wedding of the year! Already reaching 10 days - and almost home from the honeymoon - I'm sure the newlyweds are still on cloud nine. ;) I'm excited to finally share this momentous day with everyone. So here, we go!

First and foremost, I must thank my fellow bridesmaid for quite a handful of photos I'll be sharing today!! - Katie B, thank you for letting me steal them!

Let's begin on last Thursday, the night before the big day! The rehearsal/ceremony was held at St. Mary's church, and dinner was at the delectable Porcini, Italian restaurant.

...oh, and the dessert? Omgee.

Moving forward to the morning of the big day!!!!!! 

The bridesmaids slept over at the mother-of-the-bride's home, and woke up with THIS.

Like I said before, there's always an overflow of food at this house. No complaints here!!

After stuffing our faces, it was time to get Beautimous...

And then our beautiful bride began to step into her dress. Let me just say, with a room full of women there was not a dry eye in that room at this moment. It was all coming together, and beginning to set in!!! She was just stunning!!

Moments later, the ladies gathered onto the bus and headed to the church!! Here are a few detail shots, and the bridesmaids before the ceremony began...

As there is this thing called wedding etiquette, prohibiting a bridesmaid to snap photos during the ceremony, I am unable to share the sweet moments of that time. However - thanks to Katie! Ha - I'm happy to share a post ceremony shot of the bridal party. ;)  

 Following the ceremony, we joined the NEWLYWEDS back on the bus and headed to the reception!

Really? Is that not the cutest? :)

Once arriving, you first set eyes on the beautiful cake - equally as delicious. After everyone got settled in their seats, and finished dinner, the following formalities took place... 

Possibly one of the best moments of the evening, was the first dance between the bride and groom - not only because of the significant moment in itself, but their song was performed live by the bride's brother-in-law. It was fantastic!!

Next were the dances of the bride/father, and groom/mother... while not having photos of either, I shall make up for it with a priceless video - "the Harlem crashes groom/mother dance". 

Yes, that was our beautiful mommy-to-be, Katie U beginning the harlem flash mob with her adorable baby bump!!! ;) Entertainment at its finest!

Unfortunately for myself the party ended quite early. I hated to miss out on any more of the exciting surprises to come in the night, but I had to put a sleepy girl to bed - already waaayyy past her bed time. The next photos are brought to you by Endless Summer Band. The entertainment of the night was kind enough to share some photos on their site.

Well folks, that's it - the end of this series. I can't believe it's already come and gone. I'm so happy for Jess & Blake, I can't say it enough. The best thing in life is to have a partner to share it with. I wish them a lifetime of happiness, and to cherish everyday together as husband and wife. 

Cheers to the newlyweds; to my best friend!!!!!!