His teammate called in sick. Couldn’t make it to the softball game that night. So, her brother (his co-worker) asked Luke to fill in — just this once — and he did. He arrived to the park that night not expecting anything other than what he assumed would be there. Crisp air. Freshly cut grass. The sound of softballs clinking against bats. Adults shouting in the infield. Children laughing and playing on the side. Dust swirling from rounding the bases and sliding into home. Nothing about his life should’ve changed that night… but everything did. When he saw her.
Nothing about his life should’ve
changed that night… but everything did.
Fast forward a few years to this weekend. To the wedding day. When two didn’t become one, but three did. Eleven years old, Michael did his own first look with his mom. He walked her down the aisle. He said his own vows to his mom and Luke, making promises to them as their son just as they made commitments to each other as husband and wife. He prayed with his mom (and new dad) at the altar and toasted them at the reception. What got us, though, what got everyone, was when Kristin teared-up during her vows when she said, “Thank you for being a father to Michael when you never had to be and loving him like he’s your own… If I had to do it all over again, I’d find you sooner so I could love you longer.” Annnd… commence waterworks. Holy moly! How special, right?!
If I had to do it all over again, I’d find
you sooner so I could love you longer.
Kristin and Luke, the way you all love each other is, in a word, inspiring. In more than a few words, it’s hopeful and optimistic, open and honest, real and raw, the kind of depth that isn’t common but’s so refreshing. And welcomed. And needed in this world. We have near tears in our eyes as our fingers move along the keys, because you three are such a clear and compelling case of what happens in life when you put others before yourself. Because you all do. And it’s a sweet, beautiful thing. Savor it. Hold it tight. Protect it with everything you’ve got. Ignore the way the world defines success. You don’t want it, need it, or want to touch it with a ten foot pole — because, you three, you’ve got the secret sauce everyone else wants. You’ve got the good stuff.
Thank you for letting us in to your life and opening your door and your hearts for us to tell the story of your navy and blush El Chorro wedding. We’ll never, ever, forget it.
the creative team
Event Coordinator: Rachael with Imoni Events
Altar: Taylor Charney with Finely Design • Band: Snake Eyes • Bride’s Dress: Brides by Demetrios • Bride’s Ring: Jared • Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka • Bridesmaids’ Accessories: Kendra Scott • Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Brides by Demetrios • Catering: El Chorro • Ceremony Location: El Chorro • Dessert: Ruze Cake House • Floral Design: Designs by Jeremiah • Getting Ready Location: The Sanctuary • Groom’s Ring: Jared • Groom’s Suit: Allure Men • Groomsmen’s Tuxedo/Suit: Allure Men in Slate Blue • Hair Stylist: Julia Mendez with Leidan Mitchell Salon • Lighting: Karma Lighting • Linens: La Tavola • Makeup Artist: Arielle Rondeau • Officiant: Matt Nathanson • Photographers: Amy & Jordan • Reception Location: El Chorro • String Quartet: Apperson Strings • Transportation: American Valet • Videographer: Something New Media
Our Gear: Canon 5D Mark III • Canon 50 1.2 • Canon 85 1.2 • Canon 70-200 2.8 • Canon 100 2.8 • Canon 24-70 2.8 • Canon Speedlite 600 EX-RT