Yes, you read that right. A SURPRISE WEDDING ON NEW YEAR’S EVE!

Just wait; it gets better. But let me back up a bit.

When they approached me about shooting the wedding, they asked Nick and me to dinner. We talked about the logistics of getting weddings guests there, of how we would set up the venue (Massillon Women’s Club did NOT disappoint!) and how they pictured the night going. The last order of business was figuring out how to do engagement photos without anyone knowing! My fall mini sessions happened to be going on at the same time so it worked perfectly!

They’re perfect, am I right?!

Okay… NYE.

They invited all of their family and closest friends by pretending to have a black tie murder mystery dinner party. If I’m remembering the invite on our fridge, it said “come dressed to kill.” So we did! The murder mystery was an absolute blast. An acting troupe came in from Michigan and performed. Spoiler: Ella Vater (Danielle) was the killer! When she was found out, she was sent to jail upstairs (AKA a good excuse to get in her wedding dress!!!!)

When she was ready, guests were released to head upstairs for cocktails and a dance party… or so they thought! I won’t narrate the rest of the evening because I think the pictures speak for themselves. Here are the highlights:

+ Everyone was surprised… AND THRILLED!! My favorite reaction was Jake’s mom, who gasped, smiled, hugged him, then pinned on his boutonniere (read: I teared up here).

+ The love and joy in the room was palpable. You can see it on their faces, you can read it in their touches.

+ We partied the night away! I love when I get to photograph the wedding of friends, because at some point they usually encourage me to put down the camera and join the party!

+ Jake and Danielle rang in 2019 as husband + wife, surrounded by those they treasure most.

I know I’m months late blogging this, but 2019 has been amazing and busy! Here’s one final photo. It was taken 5 minutes before the new year, right after I put my camera down! My favorite weddings are ones I get to spend with my favorite person.