The last wedding of 2011 was one for the books.
Rachel was born a Michigan girl and Brendan, a California guy. When Rachel graduated from college almost three years ago, she headed out to the west coast for a job at a church. The pastor’s son was named Brendan. After about a year of being friends they started dating… and on one of the last days of 2011, they committed to forever with each other. These two individuals come from amazing families, they have wonderful friends and they truly adore each other. It was an honor to attend their wedding day and bear witness to an awesome celebration filled with so much love. This day was full of so many special moments and surprises… I caught myself laughing and crying multiple times.
One of my favorite things about weddings isn’t the details or the dress or the venues (though I do love all of those elements ;)), but I absolutely love it when couples are intentional with how they celebrate their love and their union and bring their personality into the day. Brendan + Rachel were very intentional with their celebration – from the ceremony to the reception – they made it special for them and for their loved ones.
Brendan + Rachel – thank-you for allowing me into your lives and to be a part of your wedding day. The love you two possess is unique, fun and endearing. I wish you both the best as you embark on this marriage journey!
Brendan + Rachel chose to do a “First Look” which easily allowed them to do a Friday evening ceremony and a reception immediately following.
The ceremony was held as Cascade Fellowship CRC in Grand Rapids, MI…
After they lit the unity candle, Brendan serenaded Rachel with a song he wrote for her. That was awesome.
The reception was held at the Prince Conference Center on the campus of Calvin College.
Then, the bridesmaids sang to the newlyweds… they wrote a song about Brendan + Rachel’s lovestory and put it to the tune of Jingle Bells!
A toast to the bride + groom… 
And a toast from a husband to his wife…
After the parent dances, it was time for one more “surprise”… a choreographed dance medley by Brendan + his Groomsmen. Best. Thing. Ever.
Curious about that Groom + Groomsmen dance? Wanna see a video of it?
Yes, you do. CLICK HERE to head over to youtube and watch it!!
I wish I was at this wedding, just as a guest… It looked like it was a BLAST! Ha!
Two words… Ring shot (is amazing!)
Ahh. Awesome.
Great photos! Look how good I look. ;-)
What a beautiful wedding, and you captured it perfectly, Jenn! Love these pictures!
Beautiful pictures, Jenn. Love the way you captured all the dancing.
And what a great group of guys! That video is awesome!