real weddings 2008 :: kathryn + will

Couple :: Kathryn + Will, 7.26.08
Pearls Events service :: Day of coordination
Ceremony :: Thornapple Evangelical Covenant Church
Officiant :: Steve Armfield
Reception :: Amway Grand Plaza :: Presidential Ballroom + Imperial Ballroom
Food, beverage service + dessert :: Amway Grand Plaza
Photographer :: JK Photography
Videographer :: Exodous Digital Productions
Florist :: Gail VanderLaan
DJ :: Complete Music
Chair Covers :: Special Occasions
Transportation :: Affordable Limousine
Hair + makeup :: Heidi Christine's Hip

Alison and I arrived at church at noon yesterday. Gail VanderLaan had already set up the ceremony flowers, which were amazingly beautiful! Once the guys were dressed for photos, I pinned all of their boutonnieres on, and they were off to a private residence for photos with JK Photography. The girls then arrived at church for lunch and a bit of relaxation.

The ceremony started on-the-dot at 4pm, and was very sweet + personal. Pastor Steve, who has been Kathryn's pastor her entire life, did an amazing job! An hour later, the couple made their way to the limo for a cruise around the neighborhood before doing family photos at the church with Jen of JK Photography.

All of the guests were off to cocktail hour in the Presidential Ballroom at one of my favorite reception venues in Grand Rapids, The Amway Grand Plaza. Alison and I arrived and did a once over in the Imperial Ballroom--the details were gorgeous. I met with the most fabulous banquet captain, Dennis, to discuss the details + timeline of the evening. While guests enjoyed appetizers + drinks, Alison was busy counting tables + chairs since the bride has a last minute change. The Amway was accommodating and quick to make the small change to the seating chart. At 7:15 pm, Dennis rang the dinner bell and guests made their way into the Imperial Ballroom for dinner. We ate an amazing artichoke salad, followed by the main course of chicken with apple current stuffing. I was so full, I couldn't finish everything!

Following the meal, Kathryn + Will did the traditional cake cutting, but since they are not huge cake fans, they served their guests chocolate covered strawberries instead--and they were SO good. Kathryn + Will then greeted their guests table-by-table, and dancing began shortly after.

Chip of Complete Music did a great job keeping the dance floor packed all evening long. Guests danced for hours and there weren't many guests sitting down. Kathryn + Will threw their bouquet + garter from the balcony, which made for some fun photos.

Kathryn + Will are an awesome couple that I've had the pleasure of working with. I will have pro photos from JK Photography later this week. Stay tuned...