Ryan and Josie were married today!

Since Ryan was given a shotgun as a wedding gift, this was officially a shotgun wedding ; )  Going from engagement to ceremony in just about two weeks can be a lot for a couple to handle, but Ryan and Josie did everything with a relaxed mindset and the wedding was one of the most emotional and happy I’ve ever been a part of.  Getting ready at the Aloft hotel, the couple was joking, relaxed and excited for the big day.  They kept everything low key and family focused, and relished in every minute. 

Gretchen, owner of Rocket Science Wedding and Events, not only put this wedding together in record speed, but designed the lovely floral arrangements AND officiated!  This wedding definitely showed off the creative talents of Josie’s friends and family.  Josie (a fabulous artist in her own right) designed the family crest using their saying “onward and upward”, her sister designed and made the darling navy blue boat neck wedding dress, and family decorated the Theodore Wirth Chalet with silvery Christmas cheer. 

The people speaking at the ceremony managed to equate marriage to an ermine, training horses, burning ships, and small animal taxidermy…mentioned quotes from The Princess Bride and Lord of the Rings among many others…and got in some nice vocabulary in as well.  I think Josie’s cheeks must have ached after all the laughing!  At the end of the ceremony, the guests sang a beautiful version of The Lord’s Prayer. 

Things flowed pretty quickly to diving into the fabulous spread created by Chowgirls Killer Catering.  Their winter comfort foods and pound cake buffet were perfect to enjoy next to a roaring fire. 

I hope that I’m able to accurately describe the festiveness, love, joy and quirkiness of this group of people.  Ryan and Josie, it was a pleasure meeting you!  Here are my favorite images, enjoy!