There is something so special about photographing the wedding of your cousin. Tabitha and I grew up together. In our adult lives, distance and busyness has kept us apart more than I would like. Whenever we connect though, it’s like we haven’t missed a beat. ♥ This girl is definitely something special.
The morning of Austin and Tabitha’s wedding dawned sunny, windy, and COLD. Pedretti’s Party Barn (Vernon Vineyard) in Viroqua provided the perfect, cozy environment.
Their morning ceremony started at 11:00am and was filled with fellowship and Jesus. During their ceremony, we worshiped. We were led in communion. We were filled with joy as God brought these two beautiful souls together into husband and wife. Tabitha’s brothers passed out the communion while Austin’s good friend led worship. Their parents and pastors gathered around to pray over the couple. February 5, 2022 was day full of love.
After the ceremony, their family and friends worked together to transform the barn into a reception hall. Delicious bread was set out. The coffee bar was fully stocked. Rows of soups that Tabitha had created herself lined the buffet table with salad to complete the wedding lunch. Twinkling lights sparkled above. The tables were adorned with beautiful old books and candles. The wind howled outside, but the wedding barn was full of warmth.
And then there were speeches. Oh my. Tabitha had chosen several of the people closest to her and Austin to share about their love story and boy, did they deliver. Alll the emotions. From belly laughter when Mercy shared about their first time meeting to sweet tears followed by more laughter when her Father shared about the experience from his perspective. Austin and Tabitha connected the first time they met. And, while it may not have been romantic from the get-go, it didn’t take long before God pulled their hearts together. Through long distance conversations, several visits, lots of prayer and seeking wisdom from trusted advisors, Austin and Tabitha soon knew they would be spending their lives together. Soon, other family and friends got up to share about their love and respect for these two. Austin and Tabitha are both grounded in the truth and share it with others. They love and serve their friends with pure hearts. The time of sharing was wrapped up when Tabitha’s four brothers and her sister gave a performance that left all of us crying tears of laughter. I would try to sum it up, but I know I can’t do it justice!
The newlyweds served each guest dessert of either fudgy brownies or peach cobbler topped with real whip cream. Each person there has a special place in their hearts and they wanted a time that they could connect with every one.
Tabitha and Austin – I wish you both all the love and joy you can handle ♥ Can’t wait to see what your future will hold!
comments +