Joyful Blue + White June Wedding at the Gardens of Castle Rock

The older sister of the bride stepped up to the microphone under the spacious white tent of The Gardens of Castle Rock during a June wedding. She admitted she didn’t know exactly what to say for her toast during the reception… so she decided she would sing her toast! Moana and Frozen soundtracks were revamped into a personal aria, sung live, just for the newlywed couple. Everyone listened, transfixed to the lyrics and listening. The songs reminded all of us how beautiful it is to be part of a family, to start a new family, and to express our love for each other.

A Day Full of Sincerity

This moment in Jill & Luke’s wedding showcased how much these two families truly surrounded and engulfed Jill & Luke in their love. The strength of the family – such a beautiful bond to witness! Both Jill and Luke have such expressive eyes – throughout the day it was so amazing to capture the way they received the affections of their guests and families just with a glance. Reader, I encourage you to look for those fixed eyes and consider: how does one truly absorb love in a time when we cannot hug? The answer, I believe, is intentionality. For example, the intention of being truly present. Luke’s father could make only one sentence in prayer before the ceremony: “God, thank you…” and the retelling of how that sentence cracked into tears I cannot sculpt into a just likeness. Jill & Luke’s parents were so obviously present in the room, present in the lives of their children who were now becoming one.

Letter to the Bride & Groom

Jill & Luke,

My!! What an absolute pleasure it was to photograph your union, just as it was photographing your engagement. In the midst of a glorious sunny wedding day, it could easily be overlooked how difficult wedding planning had been for you and for all couples during the coronavirus pandemic. Plans A, B, and C were dashed to pieces. I’ll never forget being on the phone with you, Jill, and saying, “I’m here for you – whether Friday or Saturday!”

You two, bless your souls, had to design a wedding just handfuls of days before your date, hoping and diligently striving to make the dream come true. The wedding atmosphere glittered with joy as the day finally came together, with sadness for those who could not come. I cannot say enough how agile and articulate you two are, and how this milestone is truly a mark of faith. (I mean, JILL! You were wedding planning from GERMANY before the pandemic spread!) Your April plans transformed into a beautiful June wedding!

Luke, you have such a regal strength about you, and you possess a rare humility. I respect you so much! You two fit so well together, and I can’t wait to follow along on your adventures 🙂

Joyfully,

Jennifer

The Gardens of Castle Rock Wedding First Look at The Gardens of Castle Rock Wedding