Kelsey & Rick’s Sunny Scottsdale Wedding

She swayed to the music with her dad, the lights on the patio behind them twinkling in the background, everyone’s eyes fixed on the center of the dance floor. They swayed to the music, her dress layered behind her as it swished from side to side. This was a moment he had pictured many times in his mind, and he squeezed his baby girl so tight while the music played. “I remember I thought you looked like an angel wrapped in pink so soft and warm. You’ve had me wrapped around your finger since the day you were born.” They laughed and lip-synced the lyrics together, and her mom smiled so big, so full of pride. It was such a sweet moment, until…it got even better. The music changed to an upbeat song, and Kelsey’s mom, sister, and brother joined them on the dance floor. They jumped and danced and laughed so hard, then turned around and welcomed her new groom to join them. They all huddled together and sang the words so everyone could hear, and every guest cheered as their family had the time of their lives. This dance was not only so fun and such a perfect representation of the type of family they are, but it was the perfect symbol of what had happened that day when Kelsey and Rick said their wedding vows. This close-knit group added one more member to the family, officially, with open arms as if to say, “We’ve been waiting for you!” And after seven years, the day had really come, and that was worth celebrating!

Kelsey and Rick’s wedding was such an incredible reminder of why wedding days can be so special to me. Yes, the pure joy that buzzes through the air is intoxicating, and the love between my couples makes my heart swell. The details were breath-taking and the wedding team was incredible to work with, making my job so easy! And watching them commit their lives to the other is so wonderful and so special. But, what really gives me sore cheeks at the end of the day is when I feel like I was a part of the family from start to finish, because I spend almost as much time with a bride on her wedding day as her mom! What?? What a privilege to be a part of that sacred inner circle surrounded by their closest friends and family, let alone feel like I’m a part of that family. My heart can’t handle it! So Kelsey and Rick, I knew your day would be so sweet as you finally became husband and wife after dating in high school and beyond. But I never expected to fall in love with the ones who surrounded you as well. I hope you know how incredibly blessed you are to have those people in your corner, supporting your marriage for the rest of your lives, rallying for Riley not matter what! Best. Hype squad. Ever.