My phone buzzed with an incoming call on the table. Michelle’s name flashed across the screen, but I was in a meeting. Thankfully, I was muted so my co-workers didn’t hear the loud vibrating, and in an almost automatic fashion that occurs when one’s phone buzzes during a meeting, I tapped the “decline” button. I sent her a quick message saying I would call her back when I got off work.

This instance was out of the ordinary. Michelle and I usually catch up in person rather than over the phone. Considering this, I briefly speculated what the reason behind the call could be about before turning my attention back to the meeting and finishing the work day. However, there was a nagging sensation in the back of my mind that she was engaged.

Back in February, XY had reached out to me for information to pick out an engagement ring for Michelle (I used to work at a jewelers and knew a bit more about ring shopping than the average person). He told me he wasn’t planning on proposing until the fall, but he wanted a head start. So I knew their engagement was coming, I was just expecting it to be the fall hahaha Sure enough, I called Michelle back after work and she relayed the exciting news: not only were they engaged, the wedding was in a couple weeks! Like many COVID brides, she had to pivot her wedding plans, but it couldn’t have gone any better, especially since everything was lining up logistically. I was thankful that I was already going to be in Iowa for another friend’s wedding that weekend, so I was able to capture this special day!

I loved how Michelle combined both elegance and simplicity in this intimate backyard ceremony. From the arch to the covered chairs, all these small details elevated the atmosphere.

Capturing the love and fun of family and friends. This perfectly portrays XY and Michelle as a fun-loving couple! And also maybe how weird Michelle, Sarah, and I can be when we’re together hahaha

Michelle and XY, thank you for trusting me to photograph your wedding! Like most COVID-19 brides, this wasn’t exactly how you imagined your wedding day to be, but it was better because you focused on marrying your other half rather than throwing a giant party. Congratulations, and may you glorify Christ through your marriage!