Wedding: Michael and Hannah

When I shot Hannah and Michael's engagement pictures, I knew their wedding would be a sweet, sweet celebration. But somehow knowing something and experiencing it are two separate things altogether. And, yes, I was right: it was a beautiful, wonderful, gracious celebration.

While Hannah -- the picture of radiance and calm assurance in the face of her special day -- finished getting ready and spent time with her parents, Michael bounced around Ida Lee Rec Center, waiting for his bride. He played with nephews, greeted friends, tried to breathe, and - finally - sat down, to catch his breath and wait for his gal. But he couldn't sit for long. He was a bundle of energy, anxious to see his bride.




I know, know, know that every groom is in awe of his bride, marveling at her beauty. But Michael? When he finally had Hannah by his side, he quite literally could.not. take. his. eyes. off. her. Even - later in the day - while she was greeting friends and he was receiving congratulations, he was always and keenly aware of her; never leaving her side, never tired of watching her.









And then, ceremony time. Finally. There they were, surrounded by their closest friends and family.

I don't know if the guests could see and feel their moment, but as Michael and Hannah stood -- a mere six feet away from saying their vows -- and sang "In Christ Alone" with their guests, their joy was more than just a smile, or a glance. I can't even really describe it. But as they stood in awe of their Savior and in love with each other, their love was tangible. And, let the record show, Michael could not take his eyes off her.





And then it was time for the kiss. The kiss, the giggle, the embrace. In that order. And - oh my - so so so sweet.









(This just makes me laugh: Michael wanting his bride, maid of honor trying to fix her veil, and the guys...just being guys.)











(And you should've seen Michael's panicked look when they took away "his" cake to be cut the rest of the way... "That's my cake," he mouthed frantically.)








P.S. After they were announced to the world as husband and wife, Michael and Hannah walked out to the patio and Michael stole a few more kisses from his wife. As the wedding party walked toward them - and before they gather around for celebration - Michael grinned at Hannah. "I like your lips," he announced to her and the world. "Usta!"