This last week has been a whirlwind! From bachelor and bachelorette parties to a family wedding, it has certainly been a week to savor memories. John and I can hardly believe that his youngest sister, Jillian Rose, is officially a married lady! As I mentioned a few weeks ago in their engagement session blog post, Jillian has been instrumental in our own love story.
I first met Jillian when she was just embarking on high school. Her family joined the church where I happened to be a youth group leader for the high school girls. If you know Jillian at all, then you are very aware of how her personality draws you in. She’s an absolute hoot and joy to be around. It was fun to watch her grow up in youth group and see her through the good (and sometimes not so good) times. I give her full credit for bringing John and I together sometime near her senior year of high school. As much as fun as it was being a part of her life as a youth leader, I especially love being a sister-in-law to this gal.
It’s hard for me to remember the first time I officially heard of or met Justin. I think that’s because it has always just felt like he was there. One of the things I love about Justin is how he honors Jill. His kindness and love for her and for others has been evident since the start of their relationship. John and I have shot a lot of weddings, but you can tell a difference when a bride and a groom are just crazy in love with each other. You’ll be able to see just what I’m talking about in these photos.
I have so many memories that I’ll treasure from their wedding. Watching my mother-in-law and sister-in-laws get Jillian ready was so special. Hearing my father-in-law’s speech and listening to him sing to Jillian was certainly a highlight of the reception. But my favorite moment from the entire day was watching Justin as Jillian walked down the aisle toward him. I realize I’m in my ninth month of pregnancy, but I could barely hold it together as I watched Justin cry. I’ll definitely hold on to that memory forever!
John and I loved photographing this wedding and being a part of it. That wouldn’t have been possible with Katie Ellison’s help from Simply Grace Photography. She took over during the ceremony and throughout the family/whole bridal party portraits. I also want to thank Tammy Smith from Tammy Smith Design. She provided tote bags for the entire bridal party. If you’ve haven’t checked out her work, you should! I love swooning over her products! Thank you ladies!
I also have to thank my sweet husband John. Shooting a wedding takes a lot of energy and at 36 weeks pregnant that is something I don’t have a lot of. But John is always so faithful to help me out however he can. Thank you for all your hard work sweetheart. I can’t even begin to tell you what it means to me! I love you!
Without further ado, we hope you all enjoy some of our favorite shots from the Reilly’s wedding day.
