danelle + brendon married

American writer John Updike once wrote, "Rain is grace; rain is the sky descending to the earth; without rain, there would be no life."

As we watched the weather radar for Danelle and Brendon's big day, we were all hoping for a clear evening for their ceremony in the garden of the historic Whitlock Inn in Marietta. The call was made about two hours prior to the ceremony to keep the wedding outside, and no one suspected what would soon happen. Just as Danelle started to make her way down the aisle, holding onto the arm of her father, a few raindrops began to fall. By the time her father gave his daughter away, the drops began to grow in number. And as the officiant proceeded with the ceremony, we watched the most beautiful thing unfold.

No one moved. The bridesmaids and groomsmen held their positions, backing up this couple in one more step in their lives, as I'm sure they had done for many more before. Guests gathered under umbrellas and many men used their coats to cover their significant others. The bride gazed into her groom's eyes with a sweet smile. They were ready to get married.

Someone gave up their umbrella and passed it up to Brendon's dad. Playing the role of father and best man, he held this umbrella over the couple's head (and not his own) for the entire ceremony.

Love was abounding here. And this couple was indeed surrounded by grace.

As I listened to Danelle and Brendon vow to love and care for each other for better or for worse, I had to chuckle a little. What better time to make this promise?

But as Updike so eloquently explained, without rain, there cannot be life. And without love in the for better and for worse, two cannot exist as one.

What a beautiful day.

Thrilled to be married, Danelle and Brendon ran inside to steal a few moments to themselves and dry off. And then...it stopped raining!

Surrounded by a beautiful early evening glow and the crisp fresh air that comes after a rainfall, we got the chance to capture some awesome couple portraits. And I'm so thankful for their wonderful, adventurous spirits! With damp hair and a wedding dress twice its weight after soaking up water, these two were happily ready to walk around the grounds. I love how sweet these shots turned out.

Danelle and Brendon, the events of your wedding day are proof enough that you guys are off to an amazing new adventure in marriage. We're so grateful to have been a part of your day and wish you guys all the best!

Hope you enjoy reliving this special day every time it rains!

xoxo-E