When I think of marriage, I think of home.

I think of safe spaces, and cozy corners, and the shape that two bodies take when they embrace one another. I think of well-worn and molded fits, a warm, gentle touch, and the soothing sound of a spouse’s presence in the other room. When I think of marriage, I think of home.

For much of my life, I’ve heard repeatedly from the outside world that “marriage is just a piece of paper.” But I don’t think that’s true. Something happens to a person when they have a safe place to call home. When people have a place to land, they have a place they can reflect, process, and make adjustments. They can lay their weary heads down in peace and wake up restored, and that restoration – that rest – has the ability to transform them into sharper, fuller versions of themselves. Marriage, even when it isn’t all cozy corners and soothing sounds, is a gift, one that extends far beyond just the two individuals entering into it, but one that can bless the generations of people that come after it.

This point could not have been made more clear to me than when I walked into the bridal suite to find Kaela – beautiful Kaela – glowing with anticipation for her upcoming vows, and nearly 9 months pregnant with her and Kyle’s precious baby boy. These two were not only making a home for themselves in their marriage, but for the sweet new life that was arriving any day now. 

Kyle is a friend I’ve been lucky enough to have for over half my life. We met freshman year of high school and his faithful kindness and unwavering loyalty has always made him one of the best people I know. Everybody loves Kyle. So, when he’d called me to ask me to photograph his wedding to the most radiant girl, I said yes without hesitation.

Their wedding was intimate, just close family and friends. There was no hurry, no pressure, just pure joy and savoring every second of the day that Kaela and Kyle said “I do.” Kaela was dazzling. Drop-dead-gorgeous, yes, but hospitable, and warm, and tenderhearted. She was 9 months pregnant and helping her sister slip on her shoes. She’s an absolute gem, and when I finally got to meet her face-to-face, I felt so happy that she and Kyle had found each other. They fit together perfectly.

Their wedding day was peaceful. It was stripped of every extraneous thing and left only with what was most important: the people they love, and the promises they made. It was a true celebration of love and one of the most beautiful events I’ve had the honor of being present for. Here is a little sneak peek of Kyle and Kaela’s wedding day:

Cheers to you, Mr. and Mrs. Greenwood! I am praying that the home you two build together will be a rich blessing, both to you and every person you love most.

Until next time,

xo,

Jess