Chris & Anika’s Wedding – The Ceremony

A funny thing happens when I attend weddings. For some strange reason, even if there is a professional photographer (or two) in attendance, I find myself trying to capture the cool things I see that I think the bride and groom would like to see. I remember being in such a complete daze the day I got married… and I love looking at the photos to see all the stuff that I missed. So, I guess I kind of want to pass that experience forward. At any rate, I ended up taking over 500 (!!!) photos of the wedding last weekend. Here is a relatively small collection of them for those of you who love weddings. Or the people involved, as the case may be. 😉

We arrived at the correct Gallatian River Hideaway venue (ooops) in time to find the groom going over some last minute details.

Here’s the father-of-the-bride documenting pre-wedding events.

The grooms men and other people of honour await the arrival of the bridesmaids and bride. Oh, look. Here they come now.

The groom and the mother-of -the-bride proceed.

My beautiful sister and her escort follow.

And at long last, the gorgeous bride walks down the aisle.

I know this isn’t your “typical” wedding photo, but there’s something I just love about it…

So pretty!

The ceremony took place in a pretty little gazebo by the river.

As you can see, I allowed myself to take a break from the “just shooting with my 50mm prime this month” rule for this occasion. 😉

Anika was absolutely stunning!

Straight from a fairy tale, don’t you think?

It was a bit bright for some of the guests, but worth it.

So. Much. Love.

A lifetime of it, in fact. 😉

The sisters sharing a moment.

And in time, the vows begin.

Chris makes Anika weepy with his beautiful words.

Though there were also lighter moments to enjoy.

Anika shares her vows with Chris.

And the rest of us get emotional. 😉

Chris wastes no time sealing the deal.

Nicely done!

The new couple is introduced.

Awwww…

Soooo happy!

Bubbles are blown as the procession leaves.

Yet another shot of my gorgeous sister, watching her little sister start a new chapter of her life.

And one goofier shot, for my Monkeyboys. 😉

With the departure of the flower girl and boys, the ceremony was done. The wedding party went to get some professional photos taken, and the rest of us headed over to the reception area for drinks and milling about before dinner. But that shall have to wait for another day. Congratulations once again, you two! xo