“Barely even friends, then somebody bends, unexpectedly”

From our first meeting, I could tell how special Zach and Chelsea are to each other. Their love story is truly something of a fairytale, and if you ever get the pleasure of meeting this fun loving couple, you will understand why! Meeting in high school, they began their journey to husband and wife. For a long time they were just friends, never seeing truly each other as anything but until collage where their friend ship blossomed into something more.

On their first date, the pair watched a classic love story about two people who were destined for each other. Beauty and the Beast. The Disney classic captured their budding romance and remained a sweet constant in the coming milestones. On the proposal day, Zach popped the question in a ballroom, complete with rose petals, and of course their anthem playing in the back ground. The words resounding around them,”Tale as old as time, tune as old as song” as Chelsea said yes to her bright future. 

The details of the wedding day had references to their romantic beginnings. Roses adorned a vintage gold hand mirror. Pops of burgundy and gold completed this royal-esc wedding decor. The charming church added to the romantic and eclectic feel of the day, we could have very well been in that little town in France!

As the bridal party prepped for the ceremony and reception, both rooms where full of excited chatter and friendly banter. Each person selected for their group was important to how the two arrived at this happy day! And each individual couldn’t have been happier to celebrate with them!

As the guests were seated, soft piano music was playing. Most songs were recognized as timeless romantic classics. My personal all time favorite song was being played just before the family walked down the aisle. Clair de Lune. I had chills! Family and friends were on the edges of their seats to hear the personal vows shared between the two, and I am certain there wasn’t a dry eye in the house!

Heading over after the ceremony to the Butler County Court House gave us a castle like feeling to their bridal party portraits! What a fun group, full of so much love for Chelsea and Zach!

As the sun started to set, we retreated to Muhlhauser Barn for dinner, dancing and singing! Walking into the reception took our breath away! Gold glittering lights lit the space, and more nods to their favorite first date were placed around the reception. On the tables; candelabras, gold mini grandfather clocks and flower filled tea cups! Books and even Beauty and the Beast cookies completed the theme! Sharing their first dance to the timeless movie song was the perfect way to kick off their evening. Heartfelt toasts where given by the best man and maid of honor. Even a rendition of “Belle”, aptly renamed to “Chels” was preformed by the bridesmaids! A beautiful dessert table beckoned the guests. As the music picked up, and guests graced the dance floor, the night was electric!

It was such an honor to capture and celebrate The Pikes!