“What, then, is marriage for? It is for helping each other to become our future glory-selves, the new creations that God will eventually make us. The common horizon husband and wife look toward is the Throne, and the holy, spotless, and blameless nature we will have. I can think of no more powerful common horizon than that, and that is why putting a Christian friendship at the heart of a marriage relationship can lift it to a level that no other vision for marriage approaches.”
-Timothy Keller, The Meaning of Marriage
Johnny and Heidi are the sweetest and happiest redheaded duo you’ll ever meet! They’re the kind that seem straight out of a fairytale or a Disney movie and you kind of expect them to burst into song at any moment…AND THEY DID. Both of them. At separate times. As a surprise for the other. You guys, my heart.
Their special day took place at the beautiful Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens on a sunny and warm September Sunday. Heidi was buzzing with excitement and some nerves all morning, making sure to take quiet time by herself so that she could focus and remember the meaning of the day that she was living. Johnny took on the day with a giant ear to ear grin and a calm confidence. Both of them poured their heart and soul into this day, preparing every little detail. From meaningful, personalized gifts for their parents and bridal party, to handcrafted silk flower arrangements, to heartwarming handwritten vows, every bit of this day was so perfectly thought through. The pair chose not to see one another before their ceremony, but wanted to have a moment together. They held hands around a corner as they exchanged letters and gifts. Both gushing about their love for the other, the anticipation for their union began to grow. Heidi held her breath as the grand doors of the Tobacco Barn opened wide to unveil her in her beaded gown and cascading auburn hair. As she and Johnny joined their hearts in marriage under the wooden beams of the barn, family and friends let tears flow. Every word of their vows presented with such sincerity and love.
The sun set with flashes of color behind the striking white Grand Barn as we took the newlywed Shaw’s out and about for every photo op we could think of, to which they happily obliged. The evening cooled and guests spilled out onto the lawn to play yard games and enjoy a glass of the couple’s specialty Sangria. This couple enjoyed every minute on the dance floor with their family and friends. Johnny being a DJ, he and Heidi even took a portion of the evening to get behind the sound booth and help keep the party moving! The sweet pair ran out the doors surrounded by a tunnel of sparkler lights and their happily cheering guests. We wish you all the best, Mr. & Mrs. Shaw! Thank you so much for choosing us to document your day. We so enjoyed every minute! Happy honeymooning!
-J
Second Photographer: Jenessa Seiz
VENDORS:
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens
Dress: All Things Bridal
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Hair & Makeup: Cathy Bonsangue (Heidi’s Mom)
Florist: Diane Biddy Flowers
DJ: Portable Soundz
Videographer: Jason Merrill
Cake: Judy Shaw
Catering: Yoder’s Catering
