sarah & ryan {married}

"I almost didn't meet him," Sarah explained to me as she touched up her mascara & pressed her lips together in the mirror.  "My friends had to talk me into going out that night, and then he showed up at the party."  And the rest is simple:  they never left each others' side after that first night.  Soon Ryan was down on one knee asking for her hand and the rest is history.  Theirs is a love overflowing with raw emotion and commitment and the solidarity of becoming a family of three this year.  It is so real to watch, so powerful and so moving.  They love each other simply and they love each other profoundly, and bearing witness to the start of their marriage a couple weeks ago was a brilliant blessing.

Sarah donned the most gorgeous gown I think I've ever seen...

And could she possibly BE any cuter?!

I had the privilege of having the fabulous Courtney Tompson as my second shooter, and she captured these details perfectly.

Love their bling...and I love the personalization.

The wedding was held at the Overland Park Marriott and the girls got ready in a gorgeous suite with wonderful light despite the drizzle outside.

It wasn't til her dress was on that the tears flowed.  Sarah looked up as the finishing buttons were clasped, smiled as her eyes welled up, and exclaimed "now I'm a bride!"  What a beautiful moment as it all started becoming real to her.

And then her little man came for a visit....sweet boy!  He was super happy to see his momma and only fussed (here) when she set him down:)

Courtney & I headed over to hang with the guys upstairs for a few shots....of course they had out the beer & the football game.  And we all laughed really hard together as they teased each other, told stories, and shared our common Colorado ground (Ryan is a native even though they live in KC right now!)....

A toast before heading to the ceremony...

Seriously, Sarah - your girls are the BEST.  You are so fortunate to have such wonderful, close friendships with these three!  They love the heck out of you!

The next three images are my favorites of Courtney's from the entire day.  She stayed with Sarah & her dad just before they walked down to the ceremony and I am just amazed at how beautiful these moments between them were.  There's something so intimate & peaceful about those last few minutes before her dad gave her away, looking out at the rain and soaking it all in quietly.

Little man made his arrival to the ceremony via the Radio Flyer.  He just took it all in:)

Ryan's reaction when the doors opened and his bride walked down the aisle towards him.  He literally caught his breath.  I love that.

Their ceremony was beautiful and intimate, and the way they looked at each other throughout their vows and the way they teared up a hundred times was incredibly moving.  They are overwhelmingly in love with each other and committed truly, to a lifetime together of adventure & challenge & abundant blessing.

I almost chucked this photo when I was going through them all because it's not technically perfect, but then noticed something really moving about it.  The joy on their faces when they were pronounced man and wife was just contagious and exciting, and I love the moment that's captured here.  The little second in time where only each other existed.

Checking out the new jewels...

The rain and wind were wreaking havoc on any attempts for outdoor portraits, but we were so fortunate to have an amazing foyer at the Marriott to use!  And seriously, Sarah & Ryan - I cannot tell you how grateful I am for your positive attitudes, your willingness to try anything, and for how laid back and beautiful your personalities are!!

Captured by Courtney, bringing their funk.

LOVE!!  Totally my fave ;)

Soon it was time to head into their cozy fall reception and I fell in love with the details!!

Oh, and fell in love with them again during their first dance when they were just SO sweet together.

Super fun cake and the cake-feeding was a blast as well ;)

We were ALL treated to some really great toasts by their best friends & Sarah's dad.  We all laughed so hard, but no one more than Sarah!

And there were tears again....maybe by me too.  Y'all know I have a thing for the father/bride connection...

Then the dj got the party started!

I'll end with their sweet family portrait.
Sarah & Ryan, I'm disappointed that your day went so fast because it was so much fun.  From the second I first walked into that Starbucks in Ft Collins last spring, I knew we would be lifelong friends.  You both are such warm, genuine, joyful people - and it was more than a blessing to get to document your day.  I can't wait to watch your family grow in love & happiness.  Y'all deserve the best.

Let's grab a drink next time we're in each others' town ;)

click {HERE} for their full online gallery in 4-6 weeks!!