Rachel and Joe grew up near each other as children, reconnected later in life, and were married on Sunday, January 24, 2016.
Rachel modeled a trumpet hem wedding gown with a bedazzled sweetheart neckline. Matching pearl necklace and earrings adorned the bride, as well as a veil pinned in her spiraling dark hair. Rachel also carried an overflowing bouquet of white roses and purple dendrobium orchids.
The bridesmaids and female family wore fuchsia-colored dresses and blouses – matching the bride’s nails – while the flower girl and Daughter of the Bride sported a lavender dress with a massive bow across the front. Joe and his groomsmen all wore solid black suits with white shirts – the groom sporting a white bowtie while the others were pinned with black bowties. A purple dendrobium orchid hung from each lapel.
A unique reception followed the fireplace ceremony. A buffet-style dinner featured salad, chicken parmigiana, and mostaccioli pasta with homemade red sauce. Made by a family friend, the wedding cake was two tiered, and adorned with purple piping and more purple dendrobium orchids. The cake was accompanied by chocolate and vanilla cupcakes.
Music included live piano featuring songs composed by Joe himself, and the Mother of the Groom read a poem for family and guests. The Best Man toasted to Joe, saying all the groom’s other experiences lead him to where he is now. The groom’s brother and college roommate expressed how Joe is the most authentic and sincere person he knows, while the Father of the Groom, also Joe, lamented his happiness for the couple. The Maid of Honor, Erin, said she was excited for their future together, while the Father of the Bride, Mark, said he was proud of his daughter, and relayed a Bible verse.
Rachel and Joe’s first dance was to “Unintended” by Muse. The Father/Daughter Dance was to “Father’s Eyes” by Amy Grant, while the Mother/Son Dance was to “The Impossible Dream (Man of La Mancha)” by Mantovani & His Orchestra.
Other reception highlights include the unity candle, the anniversary dance, and the Newlywed Game. Rachel and Joe left under the signature sparkler farewell, taking best wishes with them.
Photography by: R2 Digital Images
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