I found Adam and his groomsman at the Lakeview Hills Resort in the small town of Lexington off of Lake Huron. Adam and I joked throughout the week about the rain they expected for their outdoor Inner Circle Estate wedding. It rained my entire drive over to the golf club then suddenly stopped. I took an iPhone pic of the rain on my windows and the lovely day on the other side. We ended up with a cool evening, perfect for dancing underneath the stars and string lights. I didn’t get to hang out with the guys for long but they were a fun group of gentleman. And they were all truly gentleman that each looked so dapper in their grey suits and purple ties.
When I arrived at the castle I was greeted by the gorgeous horses on the property which consists of 25 acres. The castle itself is so charming and I loved all the architecture and character within the walls. The inside of the castle was as quiet as the property outside as Aleesa gathered final details and her bridesmaids made final touches. I remembered how playful Aleesa and Adam were together at their engagement session as we talked about their little boy, Jackson and their future plans. Aleesa’s emotions ran a little high until she was finally with Adam after the ceremony. Guests took their seats as Adam and his groomsman gathered on the outskirts of the outdoor ceremony. Lights were strung through the trees and the sun danced on the leaves as it set behind them. Adam and Aleesa were married, nestled in the woods while a grey cat weaved through everyone’s feet. The cat was a pretty charming, yet uninvited guest.
It’s no secret that I somehow manage to get caught off guard at least once during each wedding day and become overwhelmed emotionally. I don’t understand why the crying occurs when I’m proud of my own children or hear terrific news so I certainly cannot explain why I cry at all the weddings. Except that, I find myself in a very intimate position with every wedding and all of my couples. I am emotionally invested. That connection and my intuition and desire to really bond with my couples and their families is the foundation for all of my work. So when Adam spoke of their gratefulness for the love and support he and Aleesa felt on their wedding day he became overwhelmed… so did I. Authenticity. That’s what gets me every time.
Adam and Aleesa, I am so glad to have been part of your wedding day and the months that lead up to it. I am honored to have gotten to know you and I’m so happy I finally got to meet the most handsome little boy in the world. I’m excited to see where the upcoming months and years take you. As the ‘not yets’ turn into dreams come true. Kiss Jackson’s chubby cheeks for me, Mr and Mrs Mende!
