When the rest of the world was focused on fear and negativity; these two chose love, light and positivity and it was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever been able to witness.

From the moment I met Rachel and Jared at a local Starbucks, I knew these two were special! They proved me right at their Coarsegold engagement session (click here to see that adorable session). When you add the combination of High School Sweethearts with a love for not only each other; but for God as well, you really get to witness something incredible.

Chris and I arrived at Copeland Gardens in Clovis, CA to shoot what we had been anticipating to be one of the greatest weddings ever. Rachel and Jared had originally planned a May 2020 wedding, but thanks to our near and dear friend CRONA, they postponed their special day to June 5th, 2020. I was SO beyond excited that they took a stance and decided to not let the pandemic we are currently living in stop their joy or postpone their wedding any further. It was SOOOO worth it.

Right after I finished shooting Rachel’s details and we were about to start getting her in her dress, she told me the sweetest story ever. The necklace that she was wearing for her wedding day; was the first gift that Jared had given her back in high school. Ummm WHAT?! Insert all the heart eyes!! Rachel’s sweet mama asked her, ” Did Jared ever think when he gave you that necklace years ago, that you would be wearing it on your wedding day?” Rachel’s response made me want to just cry with joy! She told her mom, “He said I never would have guessed you would wear that necklace on our wedding day, but I knew for sure I’d be marrying you”.

As if that was not enough to make your heart explode, shortly after this first conversation. Rachel goes on to tell me that she was not able to get her wedding band due to her jewelry store being closed for COVID. You could tell she wished things could be different in that aspect, but she was not going to let that small detail ruin her day. She was getting to marry her very best friend!! Now mind you, NO ONE let me in on what Jared had up his sleeve. During the ceremony, Jared surprised Rachel with her wedding band!!!! I was literally hiding in the back row ugly crying, while Chris is looking at me laughing.

The fact that I get the honor to capture real life fairy tales for a living will never get old! From their first look (YOU HAVE TO SCROLL AND SEE JARED’S REACTION),  to their beautiful God filled Ceremony, their first dance and everything in between; the love between these two was nothing short of infectious.

Now the part I know so many were waiting for, when I say God filled, I mean GOD FILLED. The lords presence was strong! So strong in fact, that in the middle of the couples prayer, a giant tree came crashing down just in front of the property. The timing could not have been more perfect, and the laughter from their friends and loved ones couldn’t be stopped. Everything about this day was just absolutely PERFECT!

One of my favorite parts of shooting weddings with Chris, is we get to reflect back on our early days and all the emotions we felt when we got married. This couple right here gave us all the feels and more. I cannot wait to see where the Lord leads these two sweet souls.

 

This beautiful day would not have been able to happen with some of the best Central Valley Vendors

Professional Event Coordinator: Lisa Thurman

Band or DJ: GTE (Good Time Events)

Bridal gown: Madeline’s

Jewelry: Lewis Diamond company 

Groom’s attire: AJ’s Tuxedos

Bridesmaids’ attire: Azazie

Groomsmen’s attire: AJ’s Tuxedos

Cake: Barbs Cakery

Caterer: Grazing Table: Fig and Honey

Rentals: Best Party rentals

Florals: Simply Flowers

Hair: Shannon Anderson