Kelsey and John’s Minnesota backyard wedding was one of the most rewarding weddings I’ve had the pleasure of capturing. This blog post it’s hard for me to write, because I truly cannot put into words how kindhearted and service-focused Kelsey and John are. Their Minnesota backyard wedding and amazing reception at Kellerman‘s Event Center were truly perfect. I was a little nervous going in to their day, because the forecast for the day was full of thunderstorms. They decided – rain or shine – they would have a backyard wedding as planned. John worked tirelessly to get their yard prepped for the big day for months. Luckily, the rain held out for the entire day and we were even able to sneak away from their reception to take a few photos at sunset. I think the world knew this couple deserved a beautiful day to have the wedding of their dreams!
John and Kelsey met while stationed in Kuwait. They are both in the military, and their hearts for service are evident in every interaction they have with each other and those around them. Many of the bridesmaids and groomsmen were fellow military members that bonded with Kelsey and John while stationed overseas. Perhaps the most emotional part of their day were the toasts from their wedding party and parents at the reception. Every bridesmaid and groomsmen thanked Kelsey and John for their steadfast friendship and guidance in times of hardship. I would be lying if I didn’t say I was shedding tears behind my camera after each speech. I was just so moved by the stories everyone shared about this amazing couple. The bonds between them and their wedding party were truly some of the strongest friendships I have witnessed.
In addition to the love and respect that permeated their big day, Kelsey and John incorporated other personal touches in their wedding that made it extra special. Kelsey’s family is Hindu, so the couple exchanged flower garlands during their ceremony per Hindu wedding tradition. Instead of a unity candle, Kelsey and John planted a flower together with soil from both of their parents’ yards to signify the bonding of their families. The list goes on and on! These two have such a genuine love and caring for others, and their love was beautiful to capture. You just can tell when they look at each other that there is so much love and respect between them.
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