“Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart.” Marcus Aurelius
Jamie and John's story is beautiful, sad in many ways as they both lost beloved people in their lives - both named Barry. Jamie's first husband Barry and John's son Barry both passed away far too early in life.
God sets new paths before us in our deepest and darkest hours.
Jer. 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you.
Their love is an incredible story of faith under fire. We experience loss in life and though at times it seems unbearable, He holds us through it and continues to carry us. Incredible that two hurting hearts found each other, healed each other. Not that loved ones are ever forgotten - but their memory always treasured.
John and Jamie are two incredible people. They had dated for quite some time. It was so exciting to hear when they were engaged and even more exciting to know I was going to be the one to capture one of the most important days of their lives!
Jamie and I go back about 15 years. We met as college roommates, my freshman year, her senior. From that point on there have been many trips to Chicago and such to get together since we both live in different states. Dearly love Jamie and John is a FANTASTIC guy - felt like I had known him a long time too in just meeting him. He is a stellar guy. I couldn't be happier for her.
Their wedding was fabulous. So personal and full of charming character. Their location was a beautiful farm in Tennessee. John - who is now a police officer - had an incredible knack in construction. He had worked on this house and fell in love with the property and the fantastic owners. They hosted the wedding on their property and what a phenomenal property it is! Franklin, TN is a very small beautifully quaint little town. Very quintessential Americana. The day was a bit chilly, but everyone managed to enjoy the festivities, the sun was shining after all. It never seems quite as cold when the sun is shining. I have to say, you guys took the cake with your cake cutting skills, it was by far my favorite cake cutting out of all the weddings I have done. You guys.. simply could not be any cuter.
Homemade pies, nostalgic candy, hanging lanterns, hand-painted signs, ball jars, twine and vine, paper straws, burlap bags, hay bales and old windows are just a few of the incredible essentials to this wedding. The wedding had a nostalgic, country, do-it-yourself touch and it was sooooo nicely done. Jamie and John, you guys really put your heart into everything and it so showed.
Congratulations - to the both of you - along with your incredible families.
And they lived happily ever after.
