For Airika and I, one of the most important (and fun) parts about what we do is getting to know the bride and groom. When we have the chance to build a relationship with them, it gives them a sense of trust that helps us get the natural and authentic photos that we strive for. Even with that, we quite often show up at a wedding and know no one outside of the bride and groom. This is a big reason that we started doing rehearsal coverage. It not only gives us a chance to see the venue, check out the lighting, and get a feel for the flow of the day, but it allows us to document the interactions between the closest friends and family in a relaxed, fun, and intimate setting.
We were fortunate enough to have already met Gretchen's family--the bride's father Kim was Airika's former boss at
Fuller Seminary, and a very influential mentor in her life. Knowing the family and some of the history leading up to Gretchen and Josh's rehearsal made the stories we heard even more meaningful, leading to more than our fair share of tears and laughter.
It has been an huge blessing to get to know
Gretchen and Josh over the past few months--they have incredible hearts for the Lord and a strong desire to serve and love all the people they come in contact with. They give so much of themselves--whether through their jobs, their church, or their daily interactions with friends and family. You can't help but come away from a conversation with them feeling encouraged and energized. This probably had a little something to do with the crowded church and overflowing reception on their wedding day!
You can enjoy some of our favorite images from their rehearsal & wedding day below, or you can view their
entire slideshow. Congratulations Gretchen and Josh!
During their engagement, Gretchen & Josh kept a traveling journal to share their hearts and thoughts with each other since they were living far apart. This journal, along with Gretchen's grandfather's devotional book, are pictured here.
I love that Gretchen & Josh set aside time to relax and pray with their entire wedding party and family before the ceremony. It's such a testimony to the things that are most important to them.
Gretchen & Josh's amazing vendors include:
One of our favorite moments from the evening was the toasts. Their hilarious and heart-felt stories, with a good mix of encouragement and inspiration. Everyone shared, even if was just one word to describe Lydia and Joao... 
