Where do I even begin? How can one accurately describe your best friend’s wedding day? Alaina and I have been best buds since 4th grade. The first day of school, I spotted her in the corner of the classroom, all shy and quiet, and I immediately made her my friend. I was bound determine to get this girl out of her shell… And boy did she! Her and I have been inseparable ever since. ❤️

Fast forward many years later and what started out as a simple scroll through a dating site, would change their lives forever. Alaina and Matt met online and after just 1 date (at Coney Island in Fort Wayne) they both knew they had found something special. I met Matt shortly after at my ribbon cutting ceremony. He and Alaina drove 2 hours just to see me for an hour and celebrate my big studio opening. I could tell right away that these two had fallen hard. And more importantly, that they truly cared for one another, on a much deeper level. As I like to say, “Movie love!” 😘

Their wonderful day started at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Fort Wayne. As Alaina’s hair and makeup got started, Grace and I worked on her details.

Grace was determined that we use Alaina’s perfume bottle in the ring shot. After several wacky tries, perfection! 💍⬇️

We left the hotel and met Matt at his house for his getting ready photos. I loved his colorful shirt paired with his navy pants!

Handsome, party of 1! 😎

Grace and I headed back to the hotel just as Alaina’s hair and makeup was finishing up. I love her coral dress with the white lace overlay! And how perfectly does her ring match her bouquet! 💐

Now that hair and makeup was done, it was time to get Alaina dressed. Normally I don’t get to be the one to zip up the bride but today was a very special day. Not only would I help Alaina get ready but I got to have this one in a lifetime moment with my best friend. And even better, Grace was there to capture it. The black and white photo is my absolute favorite from the whole day. The light is gorgeous, our expressions are genuine and it’s artistically pleasing with the black and white split down the middle of the frame. It was a moment I’ll never forget. ❤️

Future Mrs. Massy! 😍

Stunning! 🤩

Alaina and Matt had their first look on the bridge where Matt proposed. 💍

Matt told the story of the proposal as we recreated it. 😍

As we walked through the park, I saw this cute spot, surrounded by bushes, that I knew would make for some beautiful moments!

Just as we were about to leave, I spotted a willow tree and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. This moment will forever be called, “Don’t miss a willow of opportunity!” 😉

We met up with Alaina’s parents at Promenade Park for family photos. 😊

Next we headed downtown to capture the fun colors and industrial feel of the city.

So cute! 🥰

Our final stop was at Coney Island where Alaina and Matt shared their first date. They took a seat at the counter and enjoyed their favorite coney dogs with everything! 🌭

Ceremony time! Alaina and Matt had spent the last few months getting their backyard ready for their outdoor ceremony. The extra large deck and pergola were the perfect place to say “I do!” 😍

Alaina’s mom walked her half way down the aisle and then she passed off Alaina to her dad for the final few steps. Such a beautiful moment! ❤️

With Alaina’s parents standing by, Alaina and Matt made it official!

Alaina and Matt wrote personal vows to one another. Their dog Ringo also got in on the action! 🐶

I helped Alaina write her vows to Matt. I’m was so honored to help my best friend with such an important and personal task. 😊

The giggles were nonstop during the ceremony but especially here when Rick (the officiant) pronounced Alaina’s last name wrong.

Exchanging of rings! 💍

They did it!!! 🥳

A few family formals before dances.

Mr and Mrs Massey danced to Tip of my Tongue by Kenny Chesney. Don’t you just love that light! 🤩

Fur baby Ringo stole a kiss or two on the dance floor! 🐶

LOVE! ❤️

Alaina then danced with her dad. You could tell that this moment meant so much to him.

It was time to cut the wedding pie! Before diving in, Matt told the story of the fork they were using to serve the pie. Apparently when Alaina and Matt went to get their marriage license at the courthouse, Alaina didn’t remove all the metal objects from her bag. When she went through the metal detector the security guard stopped her and asked if she had anything metal on her. Confused, she rummaged through her purse only to find a random fork at the bottom. Everyone then bursted out laughing and now this fork will forever be a wonderful memory for Alaina and Matt.

As the evening came to a close, it was time to for their night shot. Since Alaina and Matt had spent so much time into their gorgeous backyard, it seemed only fitting that we use it for the night shot. As I was setting everything up, Ringo jumped in again for one last puppy kiss! 🐶

I love all the twinkle lights and the blue sky in the background! This was the perfect way to end such a perfect day!

To Alaina and Matt – Words can not express how amazing it was to be apart of this day with you! There’s was no way that I wasn’t going to be there for my best gal of 25 years! You two are perfect for one another and anyone can see how much you truly care for the other. I’m so thankful that I get to be there as you continue your journey together. There are so many amazing chapters to come and I’ll be right there beside you every step of the way! Love you more than words – S

To see their full day, click here.

Vendors:

Photography: Sarah Sage Photography LLC

Hotel: Hilton Fort Wayne at the Grand Wayne Convention Center

HMU: Just Live Beauty