JEN & DAN

MARRIED | ROCK ISLAND LAKE CLUB, SPARTA, NJ

I think that providence is the most inspiring and exciting factor in our lives. To look back and see not only the “visible” story that we tell others, but also in hindsight to see the interworking of “invisible” events that made this story in our life happen. My mom always said, “God works in mysterious ways.” And I knew He did, but this particular wedding with these two particular people really brought this fact to a whole other level of understanding.

Jen and Dan met in class, their Finance of Sport and Exercise Science class to be exact, during their college years. As Jen put it, ‘on the first day of class she opened her big mouth and made a sarcastic comment about something, so the professor gave her the task of writing down the pairs for their newly-assigned group project. Upon asking who her partner was, and since it was the first day of the class and she didn’t know anyone yet, she was silent.’ Silent, that is, until a voice behind her said, “I’ll be your partner,” and she quickly asked his name and wrote it down. It was only later in class that she was able to turn around and meet the mystery voice who had saved her from herself. His name was Dan, he wore a Duke baseball hat and was very handsome. She was immediately struck. But what happened during their project was even more unexpected. Jen was surprised to find that not only was Dan incredibly smart, he also pulled his weight on the project. Impression made.

Unfortunately, the end of the year also meant the end of Dan’s undergrad career. He would be leaving and Jen thought she may never see him again, which was worse than finding herself in an awkward position willing a partner for her class project. She decided to reach out. Luckily, the feelings were mutual and they have been inseparable ever since.

Fast forward a few years and I am starting a new job at a design agency where I meet Jen. We struck up a relationship immediately. Jen was the sweet, “always-early,” on top of it marketing coordinator and social media queen. During our time working together I learned about Dan and their relationship. I was there for their job transitions and relationship transitions and, even though we had moved onto other professional aspirations, we always kept in touch. It was last year when Jen reached out to ask if I was available to photograph her wedding day. I was beyond excited and completely honored. It’s the best to be able to stand alongside a good friend when she says I do and be the one capturing all of the moments with them! I couldn’t wait. Now November just needed to get here already.

Jen’s vision for her wedding was to be classically romantic with plum and purple colors to accent the fall vibes. Everything was perfect. The Rock Island Lake Club was the perfect setting for the events. The ceremony was set up along the edge of the lake with a chiffon and floral adorned canopy at the center where they would exchange their vows. The ballroom was set up with long wood tables and chairs and the most gorgeous floral runners.

One of my favorite details was Jen’s dress! It was a stunning Lillian West gown and she looked so beautiful in it! The hint of a champagne hue with the subtle lace accents with the chiffon and illusion neckline were all part of her classic and romantic style. I couldn’t get enough of it! Dan was looking dapper in his three-piece as well, which wasn’t to anyone’s surprise. Together, they were absolute perfection and we took some of my most favorite portraits this year! You would never known there were so many other things going on behind the scenes! First off, it was unexpectedly really cold this day. Both Jen and I thought that Oct 4^th meant sunny 72 degree weather, but somehow it ended up being the debut of winter weather and temps were down in the 50’s and probably 40’s by the time the sun went down and we were wrapping up ceremony! Also, you would never have guessed it, but Dan could totally pass on taking any photos and be happy as a lark. I had to collude with Jen to have a Maker’s Mark sampler in my lens bag in case we needed to bribe him. Lol. I actually ended up completely forgetting it was in my bag (unlucky for Dan) because we were trying to go through portraits quickly due to the cold (lucky for Dan). Overall, they were both champs and their wedding day was one to remember.

Jen and Dan, I’m so happy for you both and I love that our stories were randomly intertwined so I could be a part of this incredible day with you! I can’t wait to see how your love story continues to unfold! Love you both!