This wedding was by far one of the most moving weddings we’ve had the honor to be a part of. I’m sure anyone in attendance saw me practically sobbing behind my camera as I photographed their truly beautiful ceremony. I really just couldn’t help it… I was so overwhelmed with so many emotions, as were many people who witnessed this day.
I first met Ken two summers ago at his daughter Stacy’s wedding, so when I heard from him this past spring asking if we were available to document his own wedding – I was overjoyed. You see, Ken lost his wife, Sandy, to cancer a few years ago – so I was so happy for him that he was able to find love again after that incredible loss their family suffered. The crazier part of this story is that Marla also lost her spouse, Rich, of 30 years a few years ago – and in meeting one another it almost seemed their loved ones had a hand in these two finding one another.
The day was so beautiful because it wasn’t about forgetting or moving on, but rather about honoring each of their stories, their late spouses, their children (Ken’s three kids and Marla’s two children), and how they got to the point they now found themselves. It was about living each day we are given on this earth to its fullest and loving those around you fiercely. They read vows not only to each other, but to each other’s children (oh my heart). And in their ceremony they took a moment to honor Rich and Sandy by playing a Beatles song that they had both loved. Their kids and their partners all lined the front row of the ceremony space and began to tear up as they remembered their parents. The most beautiful part of this already touching moment to me though was when Laura, Marla’s daughter, reached across her husband to grab the hand of Jen, Ken’s daughter. They held hands and comforted one another as they honored both their mom and dad. It was a gesture that I don’t think I’ll ever forget and moved me to tears. The way all five kids came together and have formed this ‘bonus family’ of sorts is truly such a beautiful thing. They clearly have come to love one another and are so happy to see their parents happy once again as well.
I could really talk forever about what a beautiful day it was and how many lessons we learned that I’m sure I’ll carry with me forever… most importantly to not take one day for granted, to believe in love over everything, and to love fiercely. However, the photos will do their day so much more justice than I could with words – so let’s get to it.
Ken & Marla ~ Thank you so much for having us along to document your day. It was truly an honor and you two are an inspiration to many, including James and I. We wish you all the happiness in the world. XOXO ~ Christy & James
Such a beautiful beautiful day to be a part of. Have a fabulous weekend everyone! xoxo
