Wedded Bliss
When I was asked to photograph the wedding of Joe and Sarah Gross, I was honored. Having had the opportunity to photograph this incredible blended family before, I had already seen the genuine bond they share. As I discussed details of the day with Sarah, I was able to learn so much more about this couple and their family. She described how their children would be woven into every part of the day, and I was inspired. Weddings are so often focused on the couple, or even more so the bride, but this wedding would be much different. This wedding was about a family, and the adventure they would take on together. There were vows to love and cherish each other, but also vows of love and respect to each child. It is said that a wedding unites two families, but this wedding beautifully personified that.
Not only were their children involved, but so were their extended families. Joe’s mother officiated the ceremony using a Bible from Sarah’s family. Sarah’s sister crafted the stunning floral arrangements. Each parent and sibling had a reading during the ceremony, and the entire family participated in a family prayer. Before being placed on their fingers, the rings were passed between each person to allow a prayer to be said over it. That day may have been a wedding of two people, but it was profoundly based on family.