Bruno Mars loves songs softly played softly as Jess sat in the kitchen getting her hair done. This was it. This was her wedding day. The day every little girl dreams about: it was finally her turn. She laughed and smiled surrounded by her best friends as her hair masterpiece came together. Extra laughter followed as the girls recalled their hot yoga adventure just hours prior to preparation. Jess was focused. She was determined to have a stress free day by simply letting go. She didn’t care about her manicure that go smudged the day before, she didn’t care about the unexpected bumps in the road. She cared about what mattered: her friends, her family, her dogs, and most importantly, her husband to be.
Downtown Grand Rapids Goei Center Wedding
As Jess was getting her hair done, I snuck away to photograph the details.
Jess & Sim’s wedding bands are beyond elegant.
Their invitation suite is beyond adorable. Jess is a dog lover, and rumor has it, she would rescue any animal she saw if she could.
An engagement band that is to die for.
I asked Jessica if it was okay if I photographed her dress outside for the best lighting…
She replied with, “Dude, do what ever you need to do, I do not care. I’m getting married, and that’s all that matters!” I love when brides allow me to move delicate items outside for the best lighting if needed. Needless to say it payed off!
Jess, opted for a pair of gorgeous Nine West heels!
Nothing compares to being surrounded by your best friends on your wedding day.
Speaking of best friends, let’s talk about how Jess’s dogs stole the show outside.
We always talk about having your best friends be a part of your wedding, but I often find brides forgetting to incorporate their most loyal friends…
You’re going to be surrounded by the smiles of all your two legged friends…
But make sure you invite your four legged friends too…
Because although they may not be able to verbally say it…
They love you. They live for you. You are all they know. And they are sharing this chapter of your life too.
Jess’s bouquet was beyond gorgeous.
And her bridesmaids were a killing it along side her.
As we arrived at the Goei Center, guest poured in both big and small.
As Jess walked down the aisle, the guest rose and tears fell.
“When you get married, you’re going to grow together. The person you’re marrying now is not going to be the same person a year from now… or even 5 years from now. So you have to submit… to each other… for the greater good.”
It’s more than just a vow…
It’s a promise.
The flower girls with flower hair.
Those “I just married my best friend” smiles!
The light was dreamy, but these two were dreamier.
It makes my job easy when my couples are just head over heels for each other.
“By night one way, by day another. This shall be the norm, until you find true loves kiss, then take true loves form.”
So Jess & Sim have this inside joke type language that they speak to each other…
Now I must say, I had no idea what they were saying; however, by the looks on their face, it was beyond funny.
Can we take a second to talk about how cute this embroidery is?!?!?!
We headed back inside after the ceremony, where her bridesmaids bustled her dress.
After a few finishing touches, she was ready to party!
They shared their first dance, and many more smiles.
They have the cutest wedding cupcakes!
And the cutest personalized centerpieces!
The maid of honor & best man gave their speeches with a toast to follow!
After everyone ate, I pulled Jess & Simeon away from all the chaos so they could have a moment to themselves. I like to call it the sneak away.
I posed a question, “Simeon, there are about 3.5 billion fish in the sea. I want you tell Jess why you chose her.” I’ll let the photos speak for themselves..
After the sneak away, they danced the night away!
Venue, Catering, and Bar: The Goei Center
DJ: Opus Events LLC
Hair & Make Up: The Standard
