Sara & Josh | 07.30.2011

Sara and Josh have magnetic personalities… which I believe is why they were drawn to each other.   They are both spirited, strong, confident people who are impossible not to like!  I have known Sara forever, and I liked Josh from the first time I met him.  I can see why they are such a great match.  They have fun together.  They laugh.  A lot.  They always have a smile.  They always have something they’re excited about.  It’s just a joy to be around people who bring everyone around them up.  It’s an even greater joy to see two people with those qualities, on their wedding day.  Their happiness could not be contained, and came through in their tears, their kisses, and their words.  I know there will be times when the smiles won’t come as easily, and there might not be anything to laugh about, but I also know they will be there to bring each other through the good and the bad, and that is truly a gift – to have your best friend by your side to walk through life, and to lift you up.  I am so happy for them both, that they have an incredible partner for everything the future holds!  I wish them all the best, much happiness, and blessings.

Every detail of this day was made special, from the lime-green flip flops to the wedding gown for Sara’s Yorkie!   I brought Amanda from Aphotography along for the day, and she was so incredibly helpful!  She also contributed some beautiful images to their collection, and to this post.  Thank you Amanda!  More details about the day can be found at the bottom of this post.

Getting into the dress with her mom, and sister Leigh.  Heading over to Grandville’s library for the First Look.  I love this shot, it was totally worth standing in the middle of Wilson Avenue! Sara, I always thought you were pretty, but you were beyond gorgeous on your wedding day.  My goodness, Josh is a lucky man. Sara’s “baby” Macy came by, all dressed up in her own wedding attire!  Josh, I loved the all-black Johnny Cash look.  You looked so handsome, and I know what a good guy you are too.  Sara’s a lucky girl.  The Outer Vibe rocked the reception music!  They made me want to come up with an event just to hire them.  They are currently touring the country, and play lots of shows in Grand Rapids, so check them out if you get a chance! Jason from The Cakabakery created the super-fun funky wedding cake and delicious cupcakes that surrounded the centerpieces on each table. The bridal party’s entrance into the reception, they were dancing and the band was playing… it was so fun to watch, and totally what I would expect from Sara.  It really set the tone for the whole evening! Josh launched the garter up into the ledge by the ceiling.  A few attempted to get it down, but it was uncle Dan, with a large A-frame ladder, who finally reached it!

This drummer, Jeff, looked so familiar to me.  We quickly figured out, we grew up in the same neighborhood, rode the same bus, and went to the same school! 
Salon: Rosie Bella
Ceremony: Grandville United Methodist Church
Gown: Maggie Sottero, purchased at Becker’s Bridal
Tuxes: Men’s Warehouse
Flowers: Brides’s mother; Creative Events; Stems Floral Solutions
Stationary: The Invitation Place; Victoria Pater
Transportation: Grand Rapids Trolley Company
Reception: Crossroads Conference Center
Music: The Outer Vibe
Desserts: The Cakabakery

On a Personal Note:

This was another very special day (2011 has given me the opportunity to photograph the weddings of a few relatives and close friends).  I’ve known Sara for her entire life.  My childhood best friend Leigh (who is getting married in February!), is Sara’s big sister.   Growing up, I spent many weekends sleeping over at their house, and many summers playing at the beach and riding bikes (or rollerblading, hello 1990′s!) around Grand Haven where our families camped.  We went to the same schools, and lived in the same “neck of the woods”.  Our parents are close friends, and many of the guests at this wedding were people who have known me my entire life (and have known my mom and dad since they were teenagers)!  I was honored to be a part of Sara and Josh’s wedding day, as a friend, and as their photographer.  I so very much appreciate the kind words, thoughtfulness, and love that they and their families extended to me throughout the day.  It means more than I can possibly say.  Sara, I love ya, and I love your family!  Your wedding was an absolute blast, and I will never forget it!  XOXO