What an absolutely perfect day! The weather was perfect, the day ran smoothly and on time and everything feel into place perfectly! I have been looking forward to this day since I first met Kat & Dan almost a year ago!

We started the day at Kat’s parent’s home where I shot her details. I used the invitation to give the ring shot a blue background that added visual interest and brought in their color pallet. I’ve never done a vertical ring shot so I really love how unique it is.

Next I met Dan and the boys at the Double Tree in downtown South Bend. We decided to do their getting ready photos in the atrium so we’d have more space and have a very cool background. The boys had no problem assisting Dan with his suit. 🙂 I did, however, have to give them all a crash course on pocket square folding. hehe

 

I then drove back to Kat and the girls and caught the last minutes of hair and make up. Beauty and Bliss did a fantastic job on the girls’ hair and make! And they were so sweet too!

Mom zipped up Kat as sister Kelly and the girls watched. A few tears may have been shed too. Carol’s (mom) home had this big room of windows which mirrored the guys’ photos perfectly! I wish I could take credit for that but that was just good old fashion luck. 😉

We arrived early to the Basilica which gave us plenty of time to prepare for the ceremony. Leah of Floradashary was waiting with the flowers. They were gorgeous! So beautiful and they matched the colors perfectly!

Father Paul has known Kat her entire life which gave the ceremony a very special and personal feel. Everyone felt like part of the family. 🙂

 

I love this first kiss moment! The light is perfect on their face! 🙂

Formal photos then outside for creatives!

The company that’s doing the construction on the building next to the Basilica is actually the company that Kat works for. When we arrived, they had made special sign for them 🙂

I photographed the girls while Beth had fun with the guys. The sun was right overhead so we had to get creative on finding places that accommodate such a large bridal party.

 

 

I am in LOVE with Kat & Dan’s creatives… these two are so in love and it shows. I didn’t have to do a thing, I just let them be them.

 

Party time!

When we arrived at the Century Center, the guests enjoyed cocktail hour out on the island while I did reception details.

Courtney of C’est La Vie cakes provided such a gorgeous cake… and it was soooooo good! Floradashery decorated the tables and a stunning arch that was centered right behind the sweetheart table. It was perfect!

After Kat & Dan walked in, they immediately cut the cake. Father Paul prayed for meal and Kat’s father (Tom) gave a very heartfelt welcome speech. Alex (Dan’s older brother) made us all laugh during his best man speech and Kelly (Kat’s older sister) made several of us shed a tear or two when it was her turn.

Dinner then dancing!

After the first dance, Kat danced with her father and then Dan with his mom. And then the party really got started!!

 

We ended the night with a breathtaking night shot out on the island. Kat and Dan bravely climbed up on the edge to capture this incredible shot! I’m so in love with it and I know they are too. 🙂

Kat & Dan – Thank you for not only letting me capture your day but becoming my friend. I was truly sitting on pins and needles waiting for your big day. I’m so incredibly happy for you and I can’t wait see what the next chapters bring.  Love – S

Vendors:

Photography: Sarah Sage Photography

Church: Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Florals: Floradashery

Reception venue: Century Center

Cake: C’est La Via

DJ: The Hitman

Hair & Makeup: Beauty and Bliss

Food/drinks: Century Center

Photo Booth: Sarah Sage Photography