I can truly say that this is the best wedding that I’ve ever been a part of. The day itself was wonderful, but what made it even better was that this time, my sweet little sister was the bride :)
Kristen and Dan met a few months ago, and it didn’t take long for them to realize that they’re a match made in heaven. Instead of planning a big fancy wedding over the span of a year, they decided to keep things simple and have a small church ceremony just a few weeks after their engagement. There was no stress, no official guest list, no venues that had to be booked – just a simple ceremony held in the church courtyard after the Sunday service. I loved watching Kristen as she got ready for her wedding day in our family’s home. She was completely relaxed, and didn’t have a care for the little details that most weddings “require.” I could tell that she was just ready to marry Dan, and that was all that mattered to her.
The ceremony itself was, in my opinion, perfect. After the usual Sunday church service, we walked outside into a beautiful courtyard with a little altar waiting for the bride and groom. People (some whom I’ve never met before) showed their love for our family by circling around the courtyard, anticipating Dan and Kristen’s new union. There were some painful moments that had to be faced as we acknowledged the recent loss of our dad. Dad’s missing presence was felt so strongly within me, yet I could feel the joy he had for our family as I stood there, watching Kristen as she was handed to this admirable and compassionate man. There were so many emotions to be handled that day, but to me, peace and love reigned highest. I’m so proud of the beautiful woman my sister has grown to be, and I could not have picked a better, more loving companion for her than Dan. Kristen and Dan, I pray that you continue to encourage and build each other up as you begin this exciting and unpredictable journey that God has planned for you. I love you both so much, and I wish you many years with endless blessings!
I agree with the other commenters. Thanks so much for these heartfelt words. It made me feel as if I could have been there for their special day. Beautiful pictures, beautiful bride. We’d love to purchase a picture, if possible.
Love to you all,
Bob, Sonya & Lillie
Thanks so much for the kind words! The complete set of wedding photos is available for viewing/ordering here: http://laurenmoffettphoto.smugmug.com/Weddings/Dan-Kristen/
Just use password “dankristen” to access the gallery :) Enjoy!
First, allow me to start here by offering my deep and heartfelt condolences to the Tussing family for the loss of Kristen’s father recently.
May the Good Lord bless his soul and may he rest in peace.
My son Danny has always been a wonderful son. Ever since he was born his personality has remained the same. Consistently joyful and a wonderful person to be around. I am so very, very proud of him and the sailor he has turned out to be. There no question that he will be a great husband.
I am very impressed with the lovely commentary written by Lauren.
All I know about Kristen is from what Danny has told me. [we talk almost daily]And believe me, I am very much looking foward to meeting and getting to know her.
The pictures were great. Lauren captured the wonderful spirit and the love of the day.
Thank You.
Newell H Mowry
Congratulations, Kristen and Dan! I wish you all the best.
The pictures are lovely. Just wish we could have been there to share in the moment. Everyone looked so happy on this blessed occasion. Glad the photographer got in the family picture. We look forward with much pleasure in seeing Dan and Kristen in October.
With much Love,
Grandma and Grandpa Rose
Lauren, your heartfelt message and the wonderful pictures of the bride and groom (and Toby) were a real blessing to us. You captured their sweet love for one another in your unique and creative photography. Thank you for bringing to life this momentous occasion in Kristen’s and Dan’s lives.
All my love, Grandma
Thanks so much for posting the pics! I knew you would capture so many emotions! Your writing at the beginning made me feel a part of the day and the bride could not have been more radiant. You truly have a gift!