THE SSP JOURNAL

Joyful, fine art wedding photography for real couples. Serving Chicago, Washington DC and beyond.
Based in South Bend, Indiana. Available for travel.

Pat & Rick’s 50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration – Notre Dame Wedding Photographer

Congratulations to the ultimate power couple, Pat and Rick Andre who just celebrated 50 glorious years of marriage! These two met during their time in college; Pat at St. Mary’s Collage and Rick at Notre Dame. They were married in the Basilica on 1/22/1972, surrounded by their closest family and friends. Life has taken them all over, from California to  South Carolina. They visit the area often and even have a small home near campus for football weekends. Their relationship is deeply rooted in their faith and they continue to live a Christ-like life. Now they’re back to celebrate this incredible milestone with their family and friends at the Log Cabin on Notre Dame’s campus.

The celebration started on Friday, with a casual and fun dinner at 7 on 9, located in the stadium. Before dinner, Pat and Rick wanted photos at Pat’s alma mater, St. Mary’s College.

Don’t you just love the doors of La Mans? So pretty!

The road in between the two campuses is a place where Pat and Rick would often walk. Rick wanted to make sure Pat got back to her dorm safely, but I think that was just an excuse to spend more time with her. ❤️😊

We hopped in the car and headed over to Touch Down Jesus where their family was waiting for us.

Plenty of squeezes to be had! 🤗

Stadium time! 🏈

Pat and Rick added the video board to their stadium experience. It looped photos of them and their family through the years.

Game time! 🏈

Touchdown Andre family!

I had them sit in the stands and act like they were watching a game. 🤣

A quick tunnel shot before going upstairs.

Seven on Nine was beautifully decorated and they even had bagpipers!

I left as dinner started but not before getting a group shot with all their wonderful guests! 😊

Anniversary day! 🥳

Saturday began at the Morris Inn where Pat and Rick’s daughters helped them with their finishing touches. Pat brought their original invite from 50 years ago. So elegant and the frame was a perfect addition.

The golden hallway! 😍

On the island at St. Mary’s College for some umbrella snuggles! 🌂

Their family met us at the Grotto.

Pat and Rick lite a candle and said a prayer.

Our last stop before the ceremony was in the middle of God Quad with the Dome behind us.

Ceremony time.

Readers, the Gospel and homily.

Exchanging of vows.

Two of their grandsons were gift bearers.

After communion, the final nuptial blessing was given.

Formal photos at the alter.

A quick photo outside the Log Cabin and then off we went to the Eck Visitors Center. We captured room decor and fun moments of guests enjoying cocktail hour.

Rick started us off with a welcome and thanked everyone for celebrating with him and Pat.

Rick’s brother gave a very funny and sweet toast to Pat and Rick.

Cut that cake! 🍰

Before sitting down to dinner, Pat and Rick’s son-in-law (Burt) toasted the happy couple.

After dinner, Pat and Rick surprised their guests with a performance from Notre Dame’s Glee Club. Rick was a member during this time in school, as well as some of his dear friends, his son-in-law and future (hopefully) grandson.

Rick had the Glee Club sing a special song just for Pat. ❤️

All the Glee Club members from the past years joined them in song.

The Glee Club stayed after their performance as Pat and Rick had their 50th dance. ❤️

Their family joined them on the dance floor.

Party time!

To close this wonderful day, I took a photo of the 5 couples, (yes you heard me right), that have all been married 50 years! So incredible! Congratulations!

To Pat and Rick – Thank you for taking me along on this wonderful journey with you! You were a dream to work with and just plain fun! It’s absolutely incredible that you were able to celebrate this milestone and do so with your closest family and friends. You are an inspiration! 😍 All my love – S

To see their full celebration, click here.

Vendors:

Photo: Sarah Sage Photography LLC

Ceremony: Log Cabin

Venues: 7 on 9, Eck Visitors Center, Morris Inn

HMU: Salon Nouveau

Cake: C’est La Vie

DJ: In-tune DJ Service

Catering: Navarre Hospitality Group

Decor: Merry Me Events

Floral: Country Florist & Gifts

Transportation: Royal Excursion

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