extraordinary weddings

On a beautiful September day in Louisville, Kentucky, Jennifer and Matt celebrated their wedding in front of 350 guests of family and friends. The ceremony took place in Saint Boniface Church, the first Catholic Church in Louisville, and the house of worship Jennifer’s grandmother attends every week. Making it even more special, the priest officiating, has known Jennifer since she was a child, watching her grow over the years.

It was truly picturesque; the church was decorated elegantly but simply with coral roses, carnations, and lush floral pomanders in shades of pinks and orange. Pink flowers resting against wooden pews played against the architectural design of the historical church. The ceremony was beautiful and traditional with Matt waiting at the altar in a classic black tuxedo. From overhead, sunlight through the gorgeous stained glass windows beamed upon the bride as she walked down the aisle in a simple lace, strapless gown with her father by her side. As classical musicians played Pachelbel’s Canon in D you couldn’t help being touched by the smiles on everyone’s face radiating throughout the room.

The celebration continued immediately after the ceremony with guests heading back to the home of Jennifer’s mother for dinner and dancing. Her beautiful garden lawn and pool areas provided a gorgeous backdrop to the party. As guests arrived, in true Southern hospitality, they were greeted with a choice of either glasses of homemade iced tea or refreshing glasses of water with cucumber slices. An eight-piece, classic sixties style Soul and R&B band, complete with a brilliant horn section, played nothing but the greatest hits of James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Stevie Wonder. It was a magical era brought to life for guests to party and dance the night away in honor of a very special couple.

"It was so romantic," said the bride as the afternoon sun faded into the evening dusk and hanging lanterns and small lights, woven into the branches of the trees, illuminated the garden lawn. "It was just indescribable," she said. "Our wedding had just the right mix of Southern tradition and elegance. And as a finale, we decided to make a splash and do something out of the ordinary. As everyone began to make their way home, along with our parents, we took a running leap into the pool."

Dripping with water and smiling from ear to ear, Jennifer and Matt could not have asked for a better celebration to begin their new, incredible life together.