The day started like many weddings had before it. Laurie arrived to the church to get ready for her big day. Shortly after her arrival Ryan arrived in full tuxedo with his friends and brother by his side. We started the day with more traditional style portraiture. Our Lady of Consulation in Rockford shined with all her glory on this Saturday afternoon. The guys did well and were quickly replaced by the women in the front of the church. As time ticked by we finished with thirty minutes to spare.
The church was beautifully decorated by one of my favorite decorators, Gail Vander Lann. She came through again on this day with hand crafted bouquets and the like. This ceremony started differently than the two I had experienced previously there. In a moments eye I had to go from the aisle to behind the bridesmaids to capture the processional of the wedding party. I am glad I was prepared with my longer lens when the Laurie came walking down the aisle with her father.
The ceremony went on as planned without any incident or distraction. As Ryan and Laurie greeted the guests, Emily and I were able to set up our lighting and prepare for a quick formal session that included the families, bridal party, and the wedding couple. Only 20 minutes after the first shutter was released we found ourselves packing up and getting on the bus.
The Affordable Limosine party bus was there to take the Bridal party to Lake Michigan. Our first adventure for the day included the newly finished party bus’s lack of Air Conditioning, and a radio failure. Justin (the owner of Affordable Limo’s) was contacted and the bus ride took place without Air, but I am sure Justin will make it right with Ryan and Laurie as he has done in the past when unavoidable situations have occured.
After a few short stops, we made it the the Shore’s of Lake Michigan, just North of Grand Haven. With only 25 minutes of time, I had my work cut out for me, but was able to accomplish everything that we had set out to accomplish. Thanks to the Guys who carried the Bridesmaid down to the waters edge. Laurie and Ryan had fun, and were ultimately glad to brave the wind and the heat to make it to Lake Michigan.
After an uneventful bus ride to the Egypt Valley Country Club, the reception started with introductions, toasts, poetry, and prayer. The food was incredible and was a great relief to my starving stomach. Les the Wedding Director was a tramendous help when Ryan and Laurie wanted to enjoy the sunset. The golf carts and driver he procured for us made our trip to hole #2 easy and quick. The sunset made for a great close to the day.
Upon arriving back Dave Winkler from Creative Entertainment DJ services was ready to for the party. Dancing started with Ryan and Laurie showing off their new dancing moves they learned from lessons. Then Laurie and her father enjoyed a dance followed by Ryan and his mother. After the Wedding Party kicked things off the dance floor was never empty. We are still hoping the ring bearer is ok after he was dancing a little too hard and fell down and hit his head. Good thing I play Paramedic on Sunday’s.
Emily and I were kicked out just before 10:30 as per our policy to only leave after the Bride and Groom kick us out. I am sure the party continued and Emily and I were honored to be part of Ryan and Laurie’s wedding day. Below are a few photo’s from their day.
Technorati Tags: Beach Photography, Egypt Valley, Our Lady of Consulation, wedding photos
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