When you hear Carly & Steven talk about how they met, it’s hard not to believe certain people are totally meant to be together. Carly lived in Windsor working a one year contract at a medical office and Steven was in Pittsburg completing his residency. They were far enough apart to believe their paths would likely never cross. Yet somehow Carly’s one year contract turned into three, Steven decided to move back to Windsor despite being offered a position in Pittsburg, and suddenly the distance between them was much less. They worked together day in and day out at the same office, both knowing there was a spark there, and even though they were both hesitant to pursue a relationship with a coworker, Steven invited her out to drinks one night and Carly caved. It’s safe to say they hit it off – they spent 4 hours that night talking non-stop. Carly & Steven are best friends, adventure buddies, and partners who love each other through and through. We photographed their engagement session under a waterfall last November and this past month we were there to photograph the moment they committed to each other as husband and wife.
Carly started her day with her bridesmaids and parents at her and Steven’s home. When I arrived, Carly was glowing, calm, and collected. She looked beautiful (as always!) and the excitement in the house was palpable. Her Essense of Australia dress hung in the living room, and I started gathering her morning details for some detail photos while the girls continued getting their hair and makeup done. Shortly after, Carly stepped into her dress with the help of her mom, slipped her earrings in and slid into her Jimmy Choo flats. She was fully ready to marry the love of her life.
Steven had a more lively morning. Croatians know how to celebrate – the tables were stocked with food and drinks and the house and yard was full of friends and family singing Croatian songs, dancing together and waving flags. Steven snuck inside to get dressed into his suit and open the gift Carly had left for him, and headed back out to continue the celebration.
Their ceremony took place at St. Francis of Assisi Church and was full of rich tradition and meaning. Carly & Steven kept their eyes on each other throughout the ceremony, breaking out in smiles and laughter throughout. You could tell they felt incredibly lucky to be marrying one another. They said their vows and placed rings on each other’s fingers, smiling even as they shared their first kiss as husband and wife, before walking back down the aisle surrounded by a church packed with those there to support them.
They headed to Lowe-Martin Mansion for the wedding party photos – the rich wooden details, stone fireplace, and natural light are incredible and complimented their style and vision for the day. After spending some time with their wedding party, they took a few moments alone for portraits together. The excitement and energy that surrounded them all day settled, as they wrapped their arms around each other and cuddled in, enjoying their first few hours as husband and wife.
The calm didn’t last long as they arrived at their reception at St. Francis of Assisi Hall. Their guests stood to welcome them and they entered to thunderous cheers. They walked straight onto the dance floor where their loved ones came to surround them in celebration with traditional Croatian dances. Once the dances ended, Carly & Steven made their way to the head table where they spent the rest of the evening listening to and giving speeches, toasting to one another and to their family and friends, before they opened up the dance floor and partied the night away.
Carly & Steven, your day was full of meaningful traditions that clearly showed the love you have for one another and the love your community has for you. We loved getting to come along this journey with you as you became husband and wife. Congratulations!
“I look at you and see the rest of my life in front of my eyes”. – Unknown
A REVIEW FROM THE COUPLE
Church: St. Francis of Assisi
Decorator: Anything & Everything- Lorainne
Invitations/Stationary: See You There – Judene
Transportation: Limos by Mr. J’s
Hairstylist: Hairway to Heaven – Taylor Martell
Florist: Anything & Everything – Loraine
Caterer: St. Francis of Assisi
DJ: DJ PJ
Bride’s Dress Shop: It’s Your Day Bridal
Bride’s Dress Designer: Essense of Australia
Bridesmaid’s Dress Shop: David’s Bridal
Rental Co/Suit Shop: Collin’s Formal Wear
Suit Designer: Allure Events
Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Videographer: E/Motion Films