Christopher & Lauren’s Story | Part 2, The Wedding Day

It happened slowly, but by the time Lauren was in college she knew she wanted to marry Chris. 

[If you missed Part 1 of their story, you can find it here]

She had no idea the proposal was coming. Chris got tickets to see the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Lauren is always up for a concert, so nothing seemed amiss. They made a night of it, got dressed up and went to dinner beforehand. He didn’t seem nervous at all. At intermission, he suggested they go for a walk and led her up the stairs to a quiet alcove in the Eastman Theater. He began to tell her very sweet things and before she knew it, he was on bended knee, asking for her hand in marriage. She cried. She says he’ll never admit it, but he had tears in his eyes too.

Lauren heard exactly none of the second half of the concert. They were in their own bubble, holding hands and staring at each other, and ever-so often catching the glisten of the new ring adorning her finger. They simply enjoyed being in that moment together.

 

Her bouquet was delicately wrapped in a piece of her mother’s wedding dress. Such a special and thoughtful touch. 

 

Many of Chris’ friends each contributed something to this photo. I love that and think it is more special than if each piece was his alone.

 

“The best date nights are cooking at home together. Making and keeping a home together becomes a very strong part of your relationship.” -Chris

 

“It’s easy to get lost in our busy lives, in the things that make us feel tired and stressed. Your spouse should be an escape from these things. Enjoy the time you spend together…the important thing is that you love each other and you are building a life together.” -Lauren

 

“Expectations are flexible, and it’s possible to overcook anything. Even for a very motivated person, loving and caring for a person will push you to always want to do better at everything.” -Chris

 

“Love truly can be unconditional. There are moments I don’t even like me for the things I’ve said, and yet Chris somehow still loves me the next day. It makes me constantly try to be a better person.” -Lauren

 

Their friend, Ian, flew in from London to officiate their wedding. Not only was it the first time he officiated a wedding, but also the first time he has ever attended a wedding. He did a superb job. 

 

“There’s no better feeling in the world than waking up and going to bed every night knowing that I get to spend the rest of my life with my best friend.” -Lauren

“One sentence? A good kiss when necessary can serve in place of an apology.” -Chris

 

 

I didn’t even remember taking this photo…and I don’t know if he is throwin’ shade at me and my non-stop shutterbuggin’ or if this song just wasn’t his jam. But nonetheless, I LOVE THIS PHOTO. I am totally making it my desktop background pic 🙂 

 

“Why is he the perfect man for me? I could tell you all the standard things (he makes me laugh, is always there for me, I can talk to him about anything etc.) and they would all be true. But it comes down to one pretty simple thing: he is my best friend in the whole world. Being with him is easy. I never have to think about it, I always want to be near him—even when I’m furious at him! Simply knowing I’m going to see him at the end of a day makes my whole day better. I don’t sleep well when he’s not home, and I think of him during the majority of my waking moments. And I’ve come to realize, before this just starts sounding like a creepy obsession, that’s it’s because he’s not just my other (possibly better…but don’t tell him I said that) half, he’s actually become a part of me, and therefore a part of everything I think and do. I know I can be crazy at times (ok, most of the time), but if I do anything right in this lifetime, in this world, I hope it’s making sure he knows how much I love him, and being worthy of the incredible unconditional love he gives me back.” -Lauren

Chris and Lauren,

I have had such a beautiful experience getting to know you two throughout this year. You are two of the most kindest souls I have met. You both carry yourselves with such poise and grace and it shines through so beautifully in your photos as it does when in your presence. It was truly an honor to photograph your wedding and stand among your family and friends on the day you exchanged your wedding vows. 

Always,

–K

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An extra special thank you to Josh and Kerry for assisting and photographing with me. They were such a tremendous help and it feels so awesome knowing I have people who have my back and are so incredibly talented and dependable…from carrying bags, switching out lenses, setting up tripods and off-camera flashes, grabbing water, thinking of complimentary angles and covering spots I can’t possibly be in at all times. I am so grateful to call you guys not only family, but a part of my team. Thank you.

*******

Many Thanks To Those Who Helped Bring Their Wedding To Life:

Venue: Rochester Memorial Art Gallery

Officiant: Ian Turner

Rings: Cornell Jewelers

Attire: Bride wore a one of a kind, hand made dress by Lana Lowon of Lowon Pope. Groom was suited by Valentin.

Caterer: Gatherings Catering

Baker: Savoia Pastry Shoppe

Ceremony Musicians: Felice Quartet

DJ: Steve Otto Entertainment

Floral: Laura Greene

Photographer: Kelley Elizabeth Photography