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Ali & Jeff

There is only one word I can use to describe Ali and Jeff’s wedding day — inspirational. Inspirational to me in so, so many ways.

In the hundreds of weddings I have photographed, I’ve seen many couples in love. Weddings are such joyous occasions, and it’s always a pleasure to see two people enjoying the party. I got to see this joy, this playfulness in Ali and Jeff too, but due to a sudden accident and medical emergency, I witnessed the other side of their relationship – the deeper one of truly beautiful empathy, care and support they share for one another. It was in the face of adversity where their love really shone through. Seeing that left me humbled, inspired and truly, truly happy these two souls have found one another in the world.

But hey, the inspiration does not stop there, not by a long shot. What happened was shortly after the ceremony, as family photos were under way, Marissa, matron of honor and Ali’s sister, took a bad fall stepping out from one of the church pews. In falling she badly dislocated her knee. Ali was instantly at her side, holding her hand as an ambulance was called. Jeff, being a medical professional, knew exactly what happened, Marissa would be okay, but the injury was very, very painful.

This was obviously the low point of the day, but it gets better (obviously, because I’m choosing to write about this on a wedding blog). To me what was inspiring wasn’t just Marissa’s courage, Ali being there for her and Jeff being there for them both — no, what blew my mind is how everyone overcame the challenge, not just overcame but composed themselves, bounced back and genuinely enjoyed an amazing reception back at The Governor.

But wait, there’s more. After dinner, Marissa made it to the reception, wheel chair and all, from the hospital. Calling her a rock star doesn’t even begin to cut it. She quipped to all that she’s always been one to make an entrance, and (gesturing to the the wheel chair she was in) decided to take accessorizing to a bit of an extreme. She then proceeded to deliver an extremely heartfelt and stellar toast to Ali and Jeff.

This really is a story I will always keep close. For future weddings, when the limo is late, dinner isn’t on time or hair/makeup is running overtime, I will think of Ali and Jeff, their amazing wedding day, the grace and love they displayed.

Congratulations Ali and Jeff, I sign off with the closing line of Marissa’s toast — that may this day be remembered as the day you loved one another the least.

Wedding at St. Patrick Catholic Church

June 19, 2013 Comments (0) Governor Hotel, Sentinel

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