American Swedish Institute Wedding

An American Swedish Institute Wedding can be only an amazing experience for a photographer with Swedish heritage such as myself. Ingrid & Kyler crafted a truly amazing day for their guests. To know them is to know the meaning of friendship in thought, word, and deed. While they thrived and enjoyed their Yale graduate programs, they are also those folk who know that real riches and wisdom are found in the daily goodness of laughter, a story well told, and a gathering of family & friends. From the first time I met these two, I sensed such a kindred spirit in them – and oh, how beautiful a gift to see them shine in wedding glory!

A Family Affair

The Goetz home furnished the getting ready space: a stunning historical design born of rich colors and deep woodwork. (I knew once I entered why Ingrid’s studies led her to architecture!) The wedding party preparations filled the upstairs with a joyful hum. So sweet! A richness filled the house as Ingrid’s wedding morning became a precious chapter of her memories in this childhood home. I photographed Ingrid & Kyler’s details on the front porch (swooning over the peonies, I tell you!) and thanked God for the cheery sun kicking off the morning. As I watched cousins, friends, and sisters-in-law helping with Ingrid’s hair, eyes tearing up in the hallway, and bustling about with children and dresses, I couldn’t help thinking: this is a joyful family celebration.

The sweetness of getting ready as a bride in your childhood home really hit me. Consequently, when I learned that Messiah Episcopal was also the family’s home church, I felt just overjoyed! It is truly such a treasure to witness the celebration of family in tradition. Afterwards, the reception kept simple joy as a theme – touching speeches, amazing food, and the sharing of many stories.

For those who don’t know, the American Swedish Institute is a cultural center & museum that features an amazingly castle-like building called the Turnblad mansion. Inside the entrance, a stunning white staircase called out to me and I just knew our first portraits had to take place there before guests arrived! Turnblad Mansion features so many pretty corners. I especially enjoyed the Solarium and the little nooks. (Alas, construction barred us from use of the front lawn!) After family photos, the wedding party brought the hype to the patio perfectly placed to overlook the mansion. Such a perfect way to capture the stunning architecture and the Midsummer theme Ingrid incorporated into her day.

Ingrid & Kyler,

Thank you for choosing me to be alongside you. Witnessing your friends share how much they cherish your hospitality and gifts in bringing people together, I can truly say that your happy tears show all of us the beauty of deep relationship. As charged in your toasts – Ingrid, never loose those tears. May your memories from Yale and the fabric of your friendships weave ever more beautifully. May God richly bless the season ahead of you!

Joyfully,

Jennifer