Brittney and Ben’s Indianapolis wedding at The Hawthorns was nothing short of perfect. I still can’t get over the absolute wonder of their day. Not only are Brittney and Ben made for each other — their laughter and joy resonating strong all day long — but their friends and family came together in a way I’ve never seen to celebrate their relationship and start of their marriage.

You see, both Brittney and Ben come from a line of strong, strong marriages. Their parents’ love was a theme throughout their day: how they’ve both looked up to their relationships all their life, and how their parents have already built a strong marital foundation for Brittney and Ben’s future together.

That’s not to say it’s always been an easy road, though. Brittney’s father was diagnosed with ALS a few years ago. You may have heard of the disease last summer: the “ALS Ice Bucket Challenge” circulated around social media for quite a few weeks and raised amazing awareness for both ALS itself and the need for research funds, too.

Well, when Brittney originally contacted me, one of the very first things we talked about (after her excitement to be Ben’s WIFE!) was the importance of doing a first look with her dad. She wanted to celebrate him on their day too and make sure it was extra special. She shared that she had always dreamed of him walking her down the aisle, but she never knew how special that moment would be.

Needless to say, you can imagine the emotion in the room when their first look occurred. I’ll never forget listening to Brittney’s father tell her that his brand new chair (provided by Ben’s family the night before) had the ability to stand. Not only that, but she would be able to stand right on the chair too so they could dance together like she’d always dreamed.

Brittney and Ben’s wedding was a fairytale day, full of amazing friends, the best of family, and all the laughter, joy, and happy tears a heart can hold. It may sound cliche, but it’s true. I am so excited to share a peak into their story. What an honor to play a small part in Brittney and Ben’s legacy as well. Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Stone!!!

Photography: Sami Renee Photography // Ceremony: Christ the King // Reception: The Hawthorns // Wedding Dress: The Wedding Studio // Shoes: Badgley Mischka // Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas // Wedding Signage: the bride’s father // Second Shooter: Lauren Peterson // Florist: George Thomas Florist

Brittney and her girls all got ready at her parents’ home in Fishers, IN. There’s something so special about putting on your wedding dress in the living room you grew up in, and I loved these images so much!

Once we arrived at Christ the King, it was time for the first look with her dad.

Like I said, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room (or hallway!) — including mine!

Ben and Brittney chose to not see each other before their ceremony — I love these images of Ben with his parents as we waited for Brittney to come down the aisle!

Officially husband and wife!! :) After the ceremony, we all drove to The Hawthorns for bridal party photos before the reception began. Brittney and Ben’s bridal party was the BEST! I loved getting to hang out with them for the day, too!

Love!!!

For Brittney and Ben, we were able to hop on a golf cart and drive (sneak) around the golf course for their portraits! That Indiana sunset really showed off for them and complimented that newlywed glow!! :)

Love!

And then it was time for the reception to begin! The Hawthorns’ Ball Room at sunset….ahh! What a perfect spot to dance the night away!

These images of Brittney and her dad twirling away on the dance floor are everything!! What a perfect night!

Indianapolis, IN

If you’d like to support Brittney’s family and donate to the Indianapolis ALS Chapter, click HERE.