I arrived at Chris’ mom’s house to men fully dressed and ready to go to the church, hours ahead of time. This pretty much never happens. Although ready to go, they were in great spirits, sipping on some cocktails and ready for some photos. As Chris finished with the last of his details, his fellas joined in, with lots of opinions, people giving each other the gears and hearty jokes being told!

Meanwhile, the bride and bridesmaids were already underway at the Ramada. The bride had just sat down in the makeup chair, with a full wine glass always in hand, and lots of laughs continuously filling the room. With a big wedding party there was lots of conversation to be had! When it came time to put on the dress, Brianne’s oldest daughter picked up the ties and gave it her best shot to help tie her mother’s dress.

The church was large and beautiful, and the Ukranian Catholic ceremony included all the traditions. After her initial reaction when she saw Chris, shedding tears as she walked herself down the aisle, Brianne giggled with excitement throughout the entire ceremony.

After a receiving line full of hugs and congratulations, the wedding party picked up some drinks and jumped back on the party bus. The party continued throughout the photos, and right through the reception. At the beginning of the evening, the emcee made it known that the microphone would be open all night for anyone to speak. Many people took advantage of that – mostly girlfriends to roast the bride! – and the guests were roaring with laughter throughout the entire reception.

For Brianne’s first dance with her father, it was much like the movies, starting with a warm embrace and ending with her dad swinging her around in circles as fast as possible. Totally Brianne, and from what I discovered that day, very telling of their relationship. Chris’ dad had passed away so when it came time for the first dances he and his mother shared beautiful few minutes together, ending with an emotional hug.

The party got started shortly after, with dancing and lots of wine! We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day.

Ceremony: St. George Ukrainian Catholic Church

Reception: Nordale Hall

Bride’s/Bridesmaids Dresses: Treasures in White

Hair: Sara Mund

Makeup: Lindsey Rask

Groom and Groomsmen: TipTop Tailors

Flowers: Burkitts Flowers

Cake: CC Cakes by Corrine

DJ: Maxwell Music