Normally I don’t include many photos in each post. I select a few good highlights and just include my favorites. Just enough to tell the story. This time will be different. To understand the whole story, the real story, I have to show a lot more. In the case of Jaime and Ian’s wedding at West 78th Street Studios, the whole story is an important story.

Like so many weddings, the day started off rather perfectly. I met up with the ladies in the early afternoon, while Michael met up with the gentlemen. The sun was shining and the temperature was quite perfect, even for men in heavy, black suits. Preparation went by smoothly and then we all moved towards the ceremony. That’s when something a little unexpected happened. But I have to back up a little to tell the story right.

Jaime and Ian are native Clevelanders. They are real hometown supporters and love everything about this lovely city. They live in the city, shop at the West Side Market, and even work for important city organizations. In fact, one of them may work for a local sports franchise. To be blunt – they’re Clevelanders to the core. For that reason, they really wanted to feature the city in their wedding. The ceremony would be outside at the Hungarian Cultural Garden on the near east side. The reception would be at the West 78th Street Studios on the near west side. For them it was the perfect plan.

Then, just before the ceremony, the unexpected happened. As soon as Michael and I arrived at the cultural gardens, the skies darkened. And not just a little dark – think ominous dark. Dark of night dark. Rain soon followed. I ran down to the ladies limo, which had just arrived. I made it to the limo just before the hail started. I have heard of rain on a wedding, but hail?!?!

Truthfully, it was a bit upsetting. One could be depressed, or be mad and angry. Ian and Jaime chose a different path – a path of love. Sitting in the limo, Jaime expressed openly that her biggest concern was that of her guest’s comfort. Knowing Ian a little, I’m certain his biggest concern was for Jaime. And then the rally happened.

Jaime and Ian’s family and friends rallied around them. Umbrellas were brought out and the ceremony proceeded. At the start of the ceremony, the officiant cracked a joke, which set the tone for the rest of the day. People laughed and cried. They made the absolute, very, very best of the day. In the end, it was a wedding more special than the normal – it was extraordinary. Not extraordinary because of the weird weather, but because of friends, family and love.

So the entire story is below.

Trying not to get caught in a mirror above. Below, Jaime and her friend, while her mother looks on.

Preparing all the little details above and below.

The moment the hail hit above. Below – groomsmen rallying to rescue Jaime and the bridesmaids.

The processional through the gardens.

Above – Jaime’s mother and father giving her away. Below – the first hug (my favorite).

Ian and his groomsmen above. Below, a detail of my favorite tie.

 

Fun moments with friends above and below.

The rain, among other things, had set us back. So, we moved the party to the West 78th Street Studios and finished up the Jaime & Ian’s portraits there. When things change, a flexible plan is a good plan!

Above – mason jar chandeliers hand crafted by Jaime’s father. And lovely cakes too. Below – laughing at the rain, with argyle socks.

Above, I love it when the Bride and Groom take a moment to thank everyone. Below, Jaime’s husband in her arms.

Jaime and her father above. Below, Rock the House Productions…rocking the house!

 The party went all the way to the end. Jaime and Ian’s friends had us laughing the entire night. What an amazing group. So, that’s how love beats hail. Sure bad weather is not ideal, but with good friends and family, it makes little difference. That’s all for today. Definitely stop back soon for more.