A door connected the two rooms on the third floor of the hotel. The ladies were in one room; the guys in the other. The high energy of the day transmitted through everyone, including some stress due to last minute shopping runs (hair gel for starters, then the video camera that didn’t have a memory card or a battery; cue an extension cord from one of the groomsman’s cars). Yet when I walked in, Brittany popped around the corner and grabbed me in a hug. I asked her how she was feeling and she said, “Great!”

What greeted me next was Brittany’s stunning Maggie Sottero ball gown. If you must know, I have a serious love-crush on ball gowns. I am glad that there are so many styles for different brides, but there’s just something so romantic about a classic ball gown that I get a little weak in the knees.

Brittany & Aaron held their ceremony at Kent Park. Their reception later would include a lot of friends & family, but they wanted their ceremony to be intimate, including only their immediate families, bridal party, and us.

Instead of a unity candle, Brittany & Aaron put together this cross during their ceremony.

After the ceremony, we were able to roam around the park at a relaxing pace, capturing the newlyweds. Aren’t they beautiful?!?

Aside from loving ball gowns, another thing I really love is when brides keep their hair long and flowy. This entire combination made so much sense for Brittany because she is so relaxed and natural. She was an absolutely stunning bride.

Oooh la la, one of my favorites for sure!

Brittany wore this two hearts pin on her gown. It was a pin that had been worn by her great-grandmother.

The reception was in Columbus Junction, which is home to a famous old swinging bridge. We obviously made a pit stop there. And I’m so glad that we did!!!

Lest you think this doesn’t look dangerous, let me just say that one movement–even one–would make you almost lose your balance. But isn’t is just beautiful?

Brittany & Aaron, I know it’s only been a few days of marital bliss, but I wish you still a lifetime of it. I know your relationship had gone through loops and bumps, but you’ve become stronger along the way. And I hope that when the distance of the Air Force makes you homesick for each other, you’ll be able to look back through your wedding album and cherish every single second that you spend in each other’s arms. Xo, Emily