Cathie Doudy and Bill Jonakin had a beautiful spring day for their wedding, Saturday, March 27, 2010. The jubilant bride arrived at the Cathedral of the Rockies promptly at 3:00 PM, with THE dress in hand (she had purchased about 8 different dresses and hadn’t decided which one to wear until the last minute).

The Cathedral of the Rockies in Boise, Idaho

She made her way to the dressing room to change and apply a little lipstick.

Bill arrived shortly thereafter, and once the two were ready, Steve and I took the couple outside for a few pictures prior to the ceremony.

Cathie’s beautiful flowers were provided by Carpenter’s, The Florist at Edward’s Greenhouse.

While we were out taking pictures, Cathie found a feather. To Bill and Cathie it was a very significant and special sign.

The ceremony took place in the intimate Cana Chapel.

Cathie’s son, Christopher played the piano as guests were ushered in by Cathie’s other two sons, Graham, and Patrick.

Christopher Doudy

Bill waited patiently in the hallway with the officiant, Sandy McFadden.

Bill and Officiant, Sandy McFadden await the service to begin.

Once everyone was seated, Cathie’s sister and Maid of Honor, Ginny Broilier, was escorted down the aisle by Bill’s son, James.

James Jonakin escorts Maid of Honor, Ginny Broilier.

Next, the officiant, Bill and James took their places.

Bill and his son James watching for Cathy to make her appearance.

Cathie was escorted by her brother, Steve Harder.

Cathie is escorted down the aisle by her brother, Steve Harder

In my experience, it’s usually it’s the women who tear up the most at weddings, but Bill got the prize for being the most emotional at this one. He frequently pulled out his red handkerchief to dab his eyes. It was pretty touching.

The ceremony was beautiful and one of the most personal I have ever witnessed.

Sandy McFadden performs the ceremony.

The adoring couple took their vows, exchanged rings, and  lit their unity candle.

Cathie and Bill exchanging vows.

The bride and groom exchanging rings.

The lighting of the unity candle.

The final blessing was given and the ceremony concluded as the two were pronounced husband & wife to the applause of the audience.

Officiant, Sandy McFadden, giving the final blessing.

The happy couple is pronounced husband and wife.

Happy family and friends congratulated the newlyweds in the foyer.

Bill's daughter, Kate, and granddaughter, Grace Holgate.

Cathie's Mom, Pat Harder.

Cathie's brother Steve Harder and his wife, Lisa

Cathie with her siblings, Steve, Ginny & John.

Bill and Cathie with her son, Patrick.

We gathered the officiant and family members and took them into the chapel for portraits.

Cathie and Bill with the officiant, Sandy McFadden.

Bill with his children, Kate Holgate and James Jonakin.

From Left to right: Christopher & Patrick Doudy, Ginny Broilier, Pat Harder, Cathie, Bill, Graham Doudy, Steve and John Harder.

From left to right: James & Lynn Jonakin, Kelly, Joe Jonakin, Cathie, Bill, Kate, Grace, Blake & James Holgate.

Shortly thereafter, everyone headed to the reception at Berryhill & Co. We grabbed a few shots of Cathie and Bill making their way there.

Once at the restaurant, Cathie requested one more additional important group shot: her YaYa friends.

And then on to the reception:

The first item of business, was for Cathie to change out of her uncomfortable shoes.

Ah! Flip flops are so much more comfortable!

Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, wine and good conversation.

This would be the table of texting teens.

The dinner menu offered three delicious options.

Once everyone had finished their meals, the toasting began and went on for awhile. (A total of 10 toasts were presented). Bill’s son, James started things off with an incredibly touching tribute. He had written it on a paper towel, which came in handy when he needed to dab his eyes.

James Jonakin dabs his eyes during his toast to his Dad and Cathie.

The additional 9 who raised a glass to Bill and Cathie:

Judging from all the happy faces, I think it’s safe to say that everyone had a good time.

Even the photographers had a great time!

Evidently this group of gentlemen (with the exception of Harry Trumanjan, far right) have a history of getting their picture taken together dropping trou. This occasion was no exception. Seriously! We’ve opted not to include that particular photo in this blog.

Cathie and Bill needed a little help to get everyone’s attention when it was time to cut the cake. Lisa’s whistle solved the problem.

Their whimsical cake was created by the one and only, Greg Marsh of Greg Marsh Designer Cakes. Included in the design, were the letters e + B,, which intrigued those of us who weren’t already privy to their meaning. The story is as follows:  One of Bill and Cathie’s first dates was to “The Festival of Trees” Gala.  Cathie had no formal attire and had to go shopping for an appropriate gown. She told Bill she felt like Vivian in “Pretty Woman”. From then on, Bill started referring to himself as Edward (who was the main character in the movie portrayed by Richard Gere), which he shortened to “e” (always in lower case).  The B came from Bill watching Cathie buzz around her kitchen and he started referring to her as “Brownie”, which she erroneously thought meant elf. Bill’s reference was to that of a very small quick moving enzyme that can only be seen under a microscope.  The Brownie became shortened to “B” and is always capitalized.

The couple had a clean feed. Cathie not only fed Bill a piece, but several of the guests as well.

Christopher played piano awhile during the reception, to the crowd’s enjoyment.

Here’s a photo of Cathie’s whole fam damily.

And one of her with her boys.

Here’s James and his girlfriend, Kelly.

Kissing in the curtains.

The evening wouldn’t have been complete without a select few taking turns to perform the renown “Alligator”.

Here, Bill is getting geared up.

You go guy!

Like father, like son.

A few final hugs

And congratulatory clinks

And it was time to call it a night. The happy couple made their way to the car.

It was a wonderful celebration from start to finish. Steve and I felt so blessed to have had the opportunity to photograph the service and festivities, but even more so to have made two new friends in the process. We wish Cathie and Bill all the best in their new life together.

To view all the photos from this wedding click on this link

All photos copyright Steve Smith Photography, 2010.

At Steve Smith Wedding Photography we are blessed with an amazing team.  Second on our team is my wife Jeane.  In addition to her talents as photographer, stylist, and art director, she is a professional hair and make-up stylist.  Our clients, including men, always get make-up before a session.  Bill, though reluctant, was a good sport.

Bill Jonakin, Cathie Doudy, and dogs

Then the lovely couple…

Then the dog-led charge to the next photo spot…

As the daylight faded we moved into the studio.  Here are some of my favorites from the inside session:

Thanks, Cathie and Bill, for choosing us to photograph you.  You are wonderful human beings.

To view the complete session please go to:  http://pictage.com/804382

Liz Lunstrum and Glenn Summa tied the knot with fun, flair and style on Saturday, January 23rd, 2010 at the Boise Depot. Though the weather outside was a bit dismal, it was obvious early on that neither the bride, nor the groom, nor any of those in attendance were going to allow that to dampen their spirits. Talk about a bunch of happy people!

Steve and I arrived at the depot at about 2:00 to find a multitude of people busy setting up for the celebration. Teena Steele’s Significant Moments provided the lovely decor.

Our first task was to re-arrange the bride’s room in an attempt to keep one corner “clean” for photos of the getting-ready process. Liz’s bridesmaids and flower girls arrived and soon thereafter, the bride, made her appearance.

While the ladies began dressing, Glenn, his groomsmen and ring bearers arrived at the Depot pretty much dressed and ready to go in black tuxedos, white shirts, and baby pink vests and ties.

After a few final touch-ups, Glenn ushered the guys outside for a special presentation. He handed a long narrow box to each of Liz’s sons, Matt and Ben.

After recently having had back surgery, Ben opened his gift from the comfort of his wheelchair.

Inside the boxes, each of them discovered a personally engraved .22 caliber Henry Goldenboy rifle.

Once everyone had a chance to admire the  gifts, groomsmen Greg Harms and Mike Overcast pulled out the personally engraved .45 caliber Beretta pistols Glenn had given them earlier, and the manly hamming began.

What can I say? Boys will be boys.

Okay guys, hold on there. This is a wedding, not an execution!

The gentlemen retreated to the men’s room to partake in more manly activities.

This would be a picture of the men enjoying a Baha Fog; corona beer, tequila and lime.

While the guys were being manly, the ladies readied themselves.

Amidst the flurry of activity, Liz’s niece and Maid of Honor, Amy Morris, discreetly presented her beloved Aunt with a special bracelet. Liz was obviously quite touched.

With a little assistance, Liz got into her dress.

Her dear friend and wedding coordinator, Treva Jurs, better known as T.J., laced up her dress.

Liz put on her garter, and with Amy’s help, her shoes.

The flowers arrived. Liz was positively thrilled with her bouquet. It was just exactly what she had hoped for.

Once everyone was dressed, I took a few pictures of the lovely group. All the ladies had been to Avante Salon, in Meridian (where Liz is a nail technician) to have their hair and make-up done. Kudos to hair stylists, Becky Robling and T.J. Jurs, and make up artist, Delila Gutierrez, for making all the women look absolutely fabulous.

The picture above is missing Liz’s granddaughter, Taylor, who, at that moment, could not be coaxed into coming out from her brooding place underneath the table.

Liz happened to peer out the window just at the right time and spied the guys outside “hamming” with their guns.

At the videographer’s request, (Jim Seany of Foreverlasting Productions),  she got into the act too, and mimicked firing a gun and blowing the smoke off the barrel.

Amy helped Liz with her jewelry and T.J. helped her with her veil.

The bride was ready and maybe just a tad bit excited!

As evidenced by the steam on the windows, the bridal room got pretty warm with the 8-12 people that were in there at any given time. An icy bottle to cool the skin and a little sip to take the edge off was just what the doctor ordered.  Ahhh!

At the appointed time, we sequestered Glenn behind a side door adjacent to the canopied altar where the “reveal” was going to happen. Liz took her place. Glenn was brought out and turned so his back was to Liz.

When everyone was ready, Glenn slowly turned around to see his bride. His expression spoke volumes.

A lot of admiring looks, hugs and kisses between the two of them followed.

We gathered the entire wedding party and Steve photographed the group inside, and then outside.

The ladies donned their Ugg boots, and shawls before heading out in the cold.

The inclement  weather and unexpected early arrival of some of the guests forced the group inside sooner than anticipated. Liz and her attendants made their way back to the bridal room.

The day had been a dreary one, but as the sun began to set, it dropped down under the cloud banks. For a brief moment, bright beams of light streamed across the valley igniting the Boise skyline and foothills. It was a spectacular scene and a fitting omen for this man and woman about to be joined in marriage.

The ceremony wasn’t quite like anything I’d ever witnessed before. In my opinion, it was a reflection of the bride and groom; whimsical and fun. The groom appeared at the top of the stairway overlooking the crowd.

Glenn made his was down the stairs where he was greeted and congratulated by various members of the wedding party. He walked over to the table where his Mom was sitting, presented her with a bouquet of flowers and gave her a big hug.

Then he led the wedding party back up the stairs, in preparation for the ceremony to begin.

Glenn was first to walk down the aisle and take his place at the altar next to his dear friend and officiant, George Slaughter.

Maid of Honor, Amy Morris, and Best Man Greg Harms were next. This is when the real fun began. These two did not walk down the aisle, they danced down the aisle, as did the rest of the adult wedding party. It was pretty fun to watch.

Mike Overcast and Shar LeNoue       Carmen, Matt and Mandy Lunstrum

Flower girls, Alexa and Taylor Lunstrum were escorted by ring bearers, Andrew and Braden Lunstrum.

At last, Liz made her appearance.

Liz’s sons, Matt and Ben, escorted their mother down the aisle. This was an especially amazing and emotional moment. Liz’s oldest son,Ben, had suffered a serious injury resulting in his inability to walk. He had been confined to a wheelchair for the past several months and had been living at the Elks rehab hospital trying to learn how to walk again. His burning desire to escort his mother down the aisle was the incentive he needed to do it. That evening was the first time his family, including Liz, witnessed him walking. She was thrilled.  What a gift!

Both sons kissed their Mom before sending her off to join her husband-to-be.

Liz and Glenn two took their vows, exchanged rings, and were pronounced husband and wife.

To the applause of the crowd, the two sealed the deal with a kiss.

Immediately after the ceremony, the bride and groom were the first invited to visit the buffet table, followed by their guests. The delicious looking spread was provided by Two Brothers catering.

Meanwhile, Steve and I took the opportunity to photograph many of those in attendance.

D. J. Dave, (of D. J. Dave’s Mobile Disc Jockey Entertainment) summoned the couple to the cake table to share some words of marital wisdom provided by some of the guests. Then Liz’s Maid of Honor, Amy Morris, took the microphone and made the first toast.

Next, Glenn’s best man, dear friend, and Chugach powder guide, Greg Harms toasted the happy couple.

The final toast was given by, Jeremy Nobis, co-owner of the Tordrillo Mountain Lodge in Alaska, and a Chugach powder guide.

Liz and Glenn cut their whimsical cake created by Greg Marsh of Greg Marsh Designer Cakes.  The four tiered cake was a tribute to Glenn’s profession as a heli-ski pilot with Chugash Powder Guides in Alaska, (who recently partnered with Sun Valley Heli Ski guides to create EpiQuest).  It featured a helicopter, floating snow flakes, and powder guide figurines.

First Glenn fed Liz a piece.

Then Liz fed Glenn. In the event that Liz had any ideas of smooshing the cake into his face, Glenn was ready to retaliate with a plate of cake in hand.

Thankfully, there was no mess.

Liz and Glenn opted to not go for the traditional bouquet and garter toss. Instead, Liz took the microphone and made a tribute to Shirley Summa, Glenn’s mother. She explained to  the crowd that Shirley was more of a mother to her than a mother-in-law. After living 20 years without her own mother, Liz was so very grateful for the love and acceptance that Shirley had shown her.

As a token of her appreciation, Liz presented Shirley with her bouquet. Shirley was quite touched.

Then Glenn removed Liz’s garter.

Instead of tossing it into a crowd of single men as is commonly done, he strode over and handed it to his Best Man, Greg Harms as a token of his appreciation for their deep friendship.

Shortly thereafter the dancing commenced. The bride and groom took to the floor for their first dance together as Mr. and Mrs. Summa.

Liz danced with Glenn’s father Paul, while Glenn danced with his mother, Shirley.

Liz’s son, Matt grabbed the microphone and he and his brother Ben made a tribute to their Mom. Those men obviously loved and appreciated her greatly.

I think the feelings were mutual.

Matt danced with his mother.

And then Ben took his turn with her on the floor. It was an emotional moment. Liz never imagined her son would be able to walk down the aisle, let alone dance with her on her wedding day.

Shortly after that, the pace of the party picked up after that …..with dancing. Lots and lots of dancing!

From start to finish, it was an amazing celebration. It’s been a long time since I’ve met two people (my age) so incredibly happy and full of life. Their energy was infectious. It was a joy and an honor to have been a part of the festivities. We began the day as strangers, and ended the evening friends.  Thank you Liz and Glenn for choosing us to photograph your wedding!

Steve and I wish you a happily-ever-after lifetime of love, joy and adventure!

To see all the images from this wedding, click on this link:  Lunstrum/Summa Wedding

All photos copyright Steve Smith Photography.

I started off the day with a few exterior shots before heading into the dressing rooms to catch the tail end of the bridal party getting ready.

Rembrandt’s Coffee House in Eagle, Idaho

Natalie adding the final touches

Dustin and his groomsmen huddling it up

After catching a few photos of everyone getting ready we walked a couple blocks down the street to Heritage Park for the bridal party shots.

Jump for joy!

Lucky man

Lucky woman

Easing the nerves

With the bridal party all taken care of, it was time to move on to the bride and groom

Vibrant flower compositions and elegant wedding decorations were provided by Ray’s Custom Floral and Design

Dustin anxiously awaiting his bride to be

Dad with a few tears of joy

Lovely little duet performed by two of Natalie’s bridesmaids, Meagan on piano/vocals and Colleen on backup vocals

Natalie’s maid of honor, Colleen sharing some kind words

Dustin’s best man, Javin, blessing Natalie and Dustin’s new marriage

And a toast by Natalie’s father Randall

Natalie’s grandfather, Ralph, gave a surprise performance on the harmonic that had everyone clappin and foot stompin

Can’t forget the bouquet toss

Being such excellent friends, Dustin’s groomsmen couldn’t resist spicing up the garter toss. Natalie was replaced by Dustin’s best man, Javin, for a shockingly hairy treat.

Priceless reaction

That’s more like it

Over the shoulder firing

Guys vs. girls dance-off

What a great way to kick off the new year. Big thanks to Dustin, Natalie, their wedding party and both of their families for making such an awesome wedding!

More pictures will be available by clicking here and a slide show can be viewed here.

Maureen Shea and Ryan Brewer were one such couple to choose the winter for their season of choice. I couldn’t have been happier to work with these two as well as their cast of gregarious guests and kind families.

Ryan and Maureen chose Barber Park’s great event space for their wedding and reception location. This great space coupled with the creative eyes at Bliss events set the stage for a great wedding day.

We strolled across the parking lot to the wooded walkways of Barber Park

Having a little fun with it all.

If couples are up for seeing one another prior to the ceremony in order to take care of the bride and groom shots ahead of time, we will setup our own personal “reveal”. This reveal give is specially setup in order to give that same take your breath away feeling when you turn around and see your husband or wife to be for the first time that day. I had Ryan all staged and ready to go when Maureen gave him a welcoming hello. He made it about a quarter turn before everyone shouted to stop. This shot below shows the groomsmen giving a good chuckle to the near slip up.

OK Ryan, Now you may turn around.

Although a bit chilly out, the wedding party was tolerant enough to head down to the river for a few group shots.

Heels for the wedding, Uggs for everything else. Lucky bridesmaids!

Next up, the ceremony.

While everyone’s nerves may have been pumping, the ministers slight slip-up put everyone at ease with a good laugh. Instead of saying “we’re here today to join Maureen and Ryan” he led with, “we’re here today to join Maureen and Dan”… Dan just so happens to be Ryan’s best friend and best man.

Not to worry, Ryan and Maureen still got married.

Meet Dan, the man that the minister almost joined together.

Maureen played for the Boise State women’s soccer team and still carries strong ties with her former teammates. One of these teammates, Molly Hawker, was married a year or so ago wearing these same earrings. These earrings were first passed down to another fellow teammate, Kristin Sword, and then on to Maureen. Their goal is to keep passing the tradition around to the former players. What a great newly founded tradition.

Heart-warming memories from Maureen & Ryan’s past as a couple flickered on the wall giving guests a glimpse into their lives with one another.

Touching toasts were given by Maureen’s sisters/maids of honor as well as Ryan’s best man.

The first dance.

Maureen and her dad.

Some cake cutting.

Ryan’s sister and niece put on a beautiful hula dance for the everyone to enjoy.

Kind, appreciative words flowed from Ryan’s mouth as he thanked everyone for joining him and Maureen on their wedding day.

Another great wedding to be a part of!

More images will be made available at this link.

As the wedding day rolled around, Dan and Traci had one less item on their plate to think about. Their friends, family and love for one another was the focal point for the days events and it truly showed from a photographic standpoint.  It was another great experience filled with big smiles and kind eyes.

Traci and Dan chose the quaint Stonehouse catering and events center as their ceremony and reception site. This location has a cozy charm to complimented by delicious eats.

Warm sunset glamour shots a few weeks prior and iconic snowy strolls through the park the day of. I think they got the best of both worlds.

The resonating bagpipe reverberation in close quarters gave me chills down my spine.

Dan and Traci gave a fine toast to the audience.

Dan brought his Scottish roots to the table with an exquisite toasting cup, a spot of whiskey and some pleasant Scotsmen verbiage.

Dan’s father wasted no time following suit with his own Scottish toast.

Traci and Dan were a great couple from start to finish. Their love for one another was truly evident every step of the way. Congratulations!

More images can be found by following the link.

A nice bottle of champagne to mellow the mood.

Traci getting a helping hand.

Dan anxiously awaiting.

A quick note to remind Traci of his deep affection for her.

Sassily strutting down the stairs.

Gazing out at the beautiful November afternoon.

Dan’s platinum wedding band.

Fits like a glove.

Some of the great architecture that Dan designed himself.

Ahh yes, I think it’s time for that champagne.

“The Love Tub”

A quick transformation in to the casual attire.

Looking out over Dan’s expansive six-acre view.

Lean with it.

Another gorgeous Idaho sunset.

Showing off the dance moves.

Such a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Thank Traci and Dan for bringing me into your home to capture the true connection you have for one another! I can’t wait for the actual wedding in December.

More pictures can be found by clicking here.

It was a warm overcast Hallows Eve afternoon when we first caught a glimpse of Season and her father strolling down the walkway of Kathryn Albertson Park.

Season joined Glenn at the alter with officiant, Jake Schizel

Touching handwritten vows were given by both Season and Glenn

Season made a fitting boutonniere for Glenn signifying his passion for music

Guess what, they made this beautiful bouquet too!

Shoes’n'Socks

After the ceremony, I grabbed Season and Glenn for a few couples shots at various textural locations downtown

Season and Glenn took a break from the wedding day activities to hang at their room in the Grove Hotel the post ceremony session. The reception ensued several hours later in the evening at the chic Fifty-one Fifteen clothing boutique. Tina Maxwell rents this great space out at a super affordable price. Check them out off of Orchard on Gage Street. Following in the Halloween spirit, a line of S&G lanterns led the way to the entrance of Fifty-one Fifteen.

A eerie mad scientist invited guests in at the entrance with a framed version of Season and Glenn’s wedding invitation sitting close beside

Aged yet relevant images of Season and Glenn’s parent’s wedding gave a glimpse into their family history as they hung by clothes pins throughout the store

A fun make-shift photo booth with masks and mustaches invited guests in for a fun quick pic

A magnificent Corpse Bride cake caught everyones attention. And yes, it tasted as good as it looked!

Glenn and Season toasted to their family and friends for joining them on such a special day

Season keeping Glenn in check

Fellow friend Mark Beaver ran the tunes to get people movin

Glenn wasn’t afraid to showcase his air guitar genius

Or his air saxophone skills

Season picked up a few pointers from her new nephew

Ring Pops all around!

Time for those pesky shoes to come off

The first dance

Followed by an epic air guitar solo

Ahh, the bouquet toss. You never know how it’s going to turn out

A little carnage never hurt anyone

Especially when they’re still friends after all is said and done

I can’t thank Season and Glenn enough for bringing me on board for their wedding. Their smiles, inviting attitudes, great friends and warm family made this truly a special Halloween that I will not soon forget!

More images will be made available by clicking here.

Comfortable low seventy degree temperatures comforted guests on a marvelous October afternoon outdoors at the Sawtooth Winery. My day began with the groom, Nolan Ellis and his groomsmen piecing together their “penguin suits”. Nolan had a little bit of flair under his suite. Being a huge Spidey fan, he opted for the Spiderman undershirt.

Larry Ellis, showing his son how it’s done

Mad Hops!

On to the beautiful gals for their getting ready shots.

Tiffany’s dress elegantly laced up in the back.

Nolan anxiously awaited the arrival of his bride to be.

Lucky Shades

Sarah Hart of Story Book Weddings payed amazing attention to detail with beautiful seat covers, tent decorations, aisle lanterns.

Tiffany, her daughter Vanessa and Nolan poured individual vases filled with their own uniquely color sand into one large vase in a lovely unity ritual.

Tiffany’s father, Larry Ellingson gave a welcoming blessing.

We took advantage of the vibrant fall sunset for a few pre-reception couple shots.

Greg Marsh created yet another master piece cake incorporating the same flowers used in the bouquet as well as focusing on the unity sand vase.

Who said you could have a little with the cake cutting.

First Dances

Nolan and his mother Jean put a little twist on their mother-son dance. These two brought the heat to the “Cha Cha Slide” by DJ Casper before inviting guests to join them. It was a fun way to get people siked on the dance floor!

Thanks so much Tiffany & Nolan for giving me the opportunity to capture your wedding day!

More pictures will be made available by clicking here.

Steve and I had the distinct pleasure of photographing Sheila Peterson and Brandon Fairbrother’s wedding day, Saturday, October 10^, 2009 .

The bride and groom had requested that we start the day by taking pictures of their getting ready process so  Steve and I arrived at the Hampton Inn and Suites located in BoDo (downtown Boise) a little after noon.  Steve made his way to the gentlemen’s room while I headed for the ladies’ suite.

Brandon and his groomsmen, Robbie Grove and Danny Williams, started dressing soon after Steve got to their room.

Instead of the traditional patent leather dress shoe, Brandon opted for a rather stylish pair of Nike Jordan basketball shoes.

Once the guys were dressed and their boutonnieres pinned on, Steve took them downstairs for a series of shots in and around the hotel.

Meanwhile, I attempted to make my way up to the 8^th floor, which I came to discover would be no easy task. Shortly after figuring out I needed a pass key to get to the 8th floor, I  discovered that the passkey wasn’t operating properly that particular day because they were doing some security work on the system. I had to find a maintenance person to assist, so it took awhile longer than anticipated, but I finally made my way to the room.  There I found Sheila, (looking cool, calm & collected), her sister, Michelle Baughman, and good friend Martha Mendoza.

I set about taking pictures of Sheila’s dress (from David’s Bridal Shop), the garters, rings and her special shoes.

Sheila’s choice of shoes was A FIRST  in my experience. I’ve seen everything from flip flops to imported Jimmy Choos, but never had I seen brand new Nike Shox NZ Running Shoes.  Too fun!

Once all the ladies hair was styled, (courtesy Clarissa Borup of Studio D Salon in Nampa), Michelle and Martha got into their dresses, then helped Sheila into hers and laced her up.

Sheila’s Mom, Kim, arrived just in time to help her daughter put on her necklace. It was a pretty touching moment when she first caught site of her daughter dressed as a bride.

Next came the socks, the shoes, and the garters.

Once the girls were all ready, we headed to my car and drove to the area where Steve and I had pre-determined the “reveal” would take place.  I got Sheila positioned, with Michelle and Martha on either side of her.

As we were getting situated a father and daughter rode past us on the nearby bike path (Boise Greenbelt). The little girl hadn’t seen us, and the father, knowing the sight would thrill his daughter, stopped and told her to walk back and take a look. I wish you could have seen the look of wonder on the little girl’s face once she saw Sheila. It was magical — like the kind of look you see on a child’s face at Christmas.

Steve had driven Brandon, Robbie, and Danny to the location.  He called me to let me know when they were approaching, so we could be ready for the big moment.  I handed each of the bridesmaids a corner of a bed sheet I had brought to hide Sheila from Brandon’s sight until we could get him positioned and turned around.

Once he was in place, I grabbed the sheet and moved out of the way.

Steve directed Brandon to turn around and face Sheila.  His expression when he first saw his lovely bride, mirrored that of the little girl’s.  Sheila was equally enchanted by the sight of her husband-to-be.  It was a touching scene.

Steve photographed the bride and groom and their wedding party in a number of different areas close to where we did the reveal, as well as several other locations.

Sassy!

Afterward, we made our way to the C.W. Moore Plaza, where the ceremony and reception were to be held.

Sheila sequestered herself downstairs, while guests made their way to the Penthouse of the building which and been decorated in simple elegance.  Albertson’s (Ustick & 5 Mile) provided the flowers.

Situated on the 9^th floor of the building, the penthouse offers breathtaking, picturesque views of downtown, Table Rock and the Boise foothills; a beautiful setting for a wedding celebration.

At 4:00 PM Kevin Casch, the officiant, (and bride’s uncle), summoned guests to take their seats out on the terrace…..and the ceremony began.

Defying tradition, Brandon, Robbie and Danny marched to the altar to “Crazy Train” by Ozzie Osbourne. Each of them donned impish grins knowing full well this was clearly out of the classical music box (chosen for the rest of the ceremony),  much to the crowd’s amusement.

Flower girls, Camille and Mallorie Casch led the procession, followed by Martha and Michelle.

Sheila’s father, John escorted his daughter down the aisle, kissed her and presented her to Brandon.

The ceremony was short, but sweet.

As a symbol of their unity, the couple each took a glass cylinder of sand and simultaneously poured them into a single container; forever entwining the two together.

Vows were emotionally taken,

rings were exchanged,

and the two were pronounced husband and wife.  As a signal to the groom, the officiant held up his tie, where he had affixed a post-it note reading “Kiss her now”.

Brandon happily complied.

The bride and groom led the recessional back down the aisle.

Following the ceremony, I coordinated family members into various groupings for Steve to photograph.

Once we had completed the formal family and wedding party portraits, the immediate families formed a reception line to greet their guests.  Their were many congratulatory handshakes and hugs.

Following the reception line, guests made their way to the hearty buffet line, provided by A Lively Chef Catering. Salad, Bread, Green Beans, Mashed Potatoes and Roast Turkey were perfect menu choices for that crisp fall day.

According to the original plan, Fantasia Sight & Sound, Inc., the D.J. for the festivities, had set up shop outside on the terrace, which was the intended dance area for the reception. However, as the temperature continued to drop, the executive decision was made to consolidate areas and move the music indoors.

Those who did brave the cold to check out the view from the terrace were not disappointed.

Once the re-arranging was complete, it was time to start the party. The festivities started out with Sheila and Brandon taking to the floor for their first dance together as husband and wife.

Then John took Brandon’s place for the father/daughter dance.

Cake cutting was next.  (This cake came from the Albertsons on the corner of McMillan and Eagle).

Often, the bride and groom cut small delicate pieces to feed one another. Not so, with this bride and groom, (which made us a bit suspect that this was not going to be a clean feed).

Sure enough, both parties pretty much smashed it into the other’s face.

Fortunately, I think they both expected it from one another, so there were no hard feelings.

A bit later, the single ladies were summoned onto the dance floor and Sheila tossed her bouquet. Her first attempt was a little weak, so they gave her a second chance.

Martha was the happy recipient.

The ladies were replaced by the single gentlemen who anxiously vied for position.  Brandon retrieved the garter from Sheila’s thigh and slingshot it behind him into the crowd.

Robbie nabbed it left handed.

Once the wedding traditions were completed, guests took to the dance floor and mingled amongst themselves.  Based on these expressions, I would say everyone had a good time!

There were some beautiful, children at this wedding, all  happy, well behaved, and obviously dearly loved by many.

There was a lot of love swirling around the room that night: husbands; wives; mothers; fathers; children; relatives and friends.  Steve and I couldn’t help but be affected by it.  That kind of environment warms the heart and brings a smile to one’s face.  It reminds us how lucky we are to be able to do what we do.

We want to thank Sheila and Brandon for choosing us to photograph their wedding.  It was a truly a heartwarming experience.  We wish them all the best as they embark on their new life together as husband and wife.

To view all the pictures from this wedding, click here.

All photographs copyright 2009 Steve Smith Weddings.