Susie & Brian: Wedding

On her wedding day, she didn’t cry or get emotional - she just smiled. She smiled from ear to ear the entirety of their perfect day. Getting ready, taking photos, walking down the aisle, saying vows, and celebrating at the reception – everything was full of glowing grins. And really, Susie’s smiles captured not only the atmosphere of the wedding, but also the love that she and Brian share. Their wedding was so full of joy and happiness that all who attended knew that they were witnessing something truly special. Susie and Brian were celebrating the love they have for each other, their friendship that had grown over many years, and the joining of their two families. The resulting happiness exuding from this amazing couple was undeniably infectious, and smiles, laughs, and tears of joy were seen throughout the wedding party and guests.

Susie and Brian, I know that the future holds even more joy for your life together. Your love for each other is beautiful and I couldn’t be more elated for the two of you!

I love this ring holder!

The next few photos are why I LOVE first looks! When Susie and Brian saw each other before the ceremony they couldn't contain their excitement and their love for each other is so evident. These are some of my favorites from the day.

Susie and Brian got married at the beautiful Whitlock Inn in Marietta, GA. The setting couldn't have been more romantic.

Susie was an unbelievably beautiful bride.






Their first dance as a married couple.


Toasts!

Three Balloons

They sang "Happy Birthday" as three note-filled balloons drifted up into the sky. Higher and higher they went until they disappeared into the clouds. One balloon was from her husband, one from her children, and one from her grandchildren. The balloons contained sweet messages, fond memories, and notes conveying how much we all miss her. Today is my grandmother's birthday and it was celebrated yesterday with remembrance and love.

It's been two long months since we lost my grandmother. She was the glue that held our huge family together. She would keep us full with her delicious pies, German potato salad, and assortment of Christmas cookies. She warmed us with her beautiful hand-sewn quilts and welcoming smile. She gave us joy with her sense of humor and infectious giggle. And we always felt loved when she held our face in her hands and said "I love you."

Today, on her birthday, it is a beautiful warm sunny day - her favorite - and I am overwhelmed with memories. The last time I saw her is vividly etched in my mind. I can still see her slowly walking up to me with outstretched arms and a smile. I can still hear her laugh while she holds my face in her hands. I can still hear her say "I love you and come back soon" while she kisses me goodbye. I cling desperately to this memory of her as if it could disappear at any moment. Our family will never be the same, but she is always in our hearts and these memories will last forever.

I hope that my grandmother was looking down on my family yesterday - smiling while they sang happy birthday, reading the notes on the balloons that floated up to her, and hugging my mom who needs to feel the love of her mother just once more. Grandma, we miss you more than you could ever know.