The most perfect fall day for the most perfect couple! I’ve been looking forward to Ana and Michael’s wedding day ever since the first day we met, back in April of this year.
Ana and Michael met through mutual friends back in grad school. Even though the majority of their dating time had to be at home (due to the pandemic), they said the quality time together actually brought them closer. Ana loves how creative and exciting Michael can make the simple, every day task while Michael loves how easy it is to talk to Ana about anything. Their great conversations were the foundation of this happy couple. They both share a deep passion for the Lord and were thrilled to get married in the Basilica. ❤️
This incredible day started at St. Joe Farm where Ana and the girls were getting ready. I grabbed Ana’s dress and immediately started on her gorgeous details.
In the search for the perfect place to photograph the dress, I decided to climb up and hang the dress from the grand chandelier in the barn. I doubt that was allowed but holy cow is that an incredible shot! 🤩
Michael actually made the ring box himself and Ana’s ring is actually Michael’s grandmother’s ring. 💍 I love how personal every detail is. 😍
A little bubbly to start the morning off right! 🥂
Ana and Michael both wrote letters to one another. The happy tears started here and continued the rest of the day! ❤️
Mom zipped Ana up in your gorgeous Maggie Sottero gown! 😍
The girls looked on with love. ❤️
Then Ana’s bridesmaids helped her with her finishing touches. 😊
Swoon! 🤩
Ana’s dad waited anxiously to see his baby girl. 😊
Isn’t she stunning! 😍 🤩
Off to Ana and Michael’s beautiful home to get Michael ready! I was pretty impressed by Michael’s details. Even his shoes were monogramed. 👞
The guys helped Michael with his finishing touches and let’s just say, the tying the tie was pretty hilarious! 😆
Michael then read his letter from Ana and opened his gift of wedding tea. Ana and Michael both love tea so this was the perfect gift! 🎁
Sorry ladies, this one’s taken! 😎
Ceremony time!
The moment when they first see each other. Breathtaking! 😍
After opening prayer, the ceremony continued with readings, the Gospel and a very hilarious homily. 😊
The exchanging of vows and rings. 💍
It’s official! 🥳
Next Ana, Michael and their guests took communion.
Ana and Michael’s friends sang as they took flowers to Mary in the Lady Chapel. This was such a powerful and beautiful moment.
Mr & Mrs Szopiak! 🥳🥳🥳
This is my favorite moment from a wedding day and today was no exception! How perfect is this! 🤩🤩🤩
Family formals at the front of the church. The Gadourys and the Szopiaks.
Our wonderful wedding party!
The newlyweds! 😍
I love when we have enough time to take photos in the aisle. It’s shows off so much more of the Basilica. 😊
All of Ana and Michael’s guests celebrated with them on the steps of the Admin building.
Family formals.
We were walking down to the Grotto and I snapped this photo while walking backwards. I love the story it’s telling.
Ana and Michael lit a candle and shared a private moment together. 🕯
These portraits in the Grotto are incredible. I had the hardest time narrowing it down because each one was so good. Which one is your favorite? ❤️
We headed back up to God Quad for some wedding party shenanigans! 😉
And of course, a little veil swoop action! 😉❤️
Domers! 😍
The boys!
The gals!
We snuck into the ‘kissing tree’ just for a moment as the wedding party walked to South Quad. These are so beautiful. ❤️
Walking photos!
Too beautiful for words! 😱🤩😍
As the guests enjoyed cocktail hour, Ana and Michael wanted a few photos in front of their beautiful home. Their house was built in the early 1900’s and has so many unique features inside. I especially love the built in bookshelf in the living room. 📚
Our gorgeous Ana!
Our handsome Michael!
Off we went to St. Joe Farm!
Ana and Michael thought of every little detail. They even had a ‘book-nook’ put in towards the far east side of the barn. It’s the perfect representation of them!
May I introduce, Mr and Mrs Szopiak!!! 🥳🥳🥳
Ana and Michael walked to the middle of the room and danced for the first time as husband and wife to the song, The wine we drink by Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors.
LOVE LOVE LOVE! ❤️
Before dinner, Ana’s father, Vin, welcomed everyone and regaled them with stories of Ana ice skating when she was younger. He also mentioned how much he adores Michael and that he couldn’t be happier that his daughter is marrying him. ❤️
Ana’s sister, Meredith, went next and toasted the couple with a well thought out poem that told the story of their sisterly bond and how much she looks up to her baby sister.
Last but certainly not least, Jake congratulated the happy couple and told stories of what it was like being Michael’s college roommate.
Needless to say, there were countless laughs and tears during the speeches. ❤️
After dinner, it was time for parent dances. Ana and her dad were up first. Vin had way too much on that dance floor. 😉
Not a dry eye to be found as Michael danced with his mother, Patti.
Party time! The dance floor was officially open! 💃
To end their spectacular day, I wanted to do night shot that spoke to who Ana and Michael are as a couple. For that reason, I couldn’t think of anything better than the ‘book-nook’! How cute are these two! 😍
So funny! 😂 🤣
The perfect end to this chapter as Ana and Michael start a new one. Yes, pun intended! 😉🤣
To Ana and Michael – Thank you so so much for allowing me to be a part of this journey with you! I couldn’t ask for more loving and wonderful clients! Your devotion to each other and the Lord is inspiring and I can’t wait to hear all the wonderful things the Lord has in store for you in the future. If you ever need anything, I’m always here. All my love – S
To see their full day, click here!
Vendors:
Photography: Sarah Sage Photography LLC
Venue: St. Joe Farm
Church: Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Catering: Navarre Hospitality Group
Coordination and Invitations: Merry Me
DJ/Band: In the Blue
Video: Vibrant Video Productions
Floral: Flowers by Anna
Rentals: AAYS
Cake: C’est La Vie Cakes
Hair: Ilona Warner
Makeup: Masterful Design Makeup
Dress: Maggie Sottero
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