Sara & Nadim

• Weddings

Sara and Nadim, an absolutely charming couple, tied the knot at beautiful Woodend Sanctuary recently, under cloudless skies on a beautiful day! We met them at the sanctuary that afternoon, where they chose to first see each other under an old oak tree, away from all the hubbub of pre-ceremony preparation. Nadim was so stoic awaiting his bride until he actually saw her–there’s something about the way a guy reacts when he sees his wife-to-be in a wedding dress–it’s really cool to behold. Adding to her beauty was a classic Norwegian brooch attached to the waist of her dress serving as a nod to her family heritage. After unobtrusively capturing them take advantage of some time together, we took care of a few portraits right there on the spot with the thick woods serving as a nice backdrop.

Closer to the ceremony, a few dear family members were running a few minutes late, so their guests patiently waited and watched one as of the groomsmen stand at the altar area, taking a cell call from those just arriving while the other groomsmen looked on. It was a fun moment to see and document, and it’s little things like that that help make a wedding memorable. Guitarist Chris Dunn played during the prelude and processional, and is one of the best classical guitarists we’ve heard at a wedding. Everyone then settled in to witness their touching exchanges and each drink red and white wine from personalized goblets to symbolize their togetherness. The ceremony site, beautiful on its own, was gorgeously accented with floral designs from the ever-talented Petal’s Edge. They also took care of making the tables beautiful as well as the cake, which was baked by Just Cakes (yum!). We saw several deer wander close by to watch as well, and even a few bunny rabbits to stop by the tent to check out things to make sure they were just so.

After cocktails finished on the side lawn, everyone gathered under the tent as the sun began to set to receive a warm welcome by Sara’s dad, followed by toasts by Nadim’s twin brother, as well as Sara’s sister Melissa. Melissa is also marrying in Minnesota later this year and we’re thrilled she’ll be well taken care of by a good friend of ours, Huy Nguyen. Joel with Occasions catering took care of everyone (including us), ensuring all were well fed. They’re one of the best caterers we’ve worked with–delicious food and excellent service! Once everyone was sated following dinner, fab DJ Chris Laich got everyone inside to watch Sara and Nadim’s first dance, Songbird, an Eva Cassidy classic.

Later in the evening, someone produced a CD or two of Arabian music, and the already energetic crowd got their second wind, keeping the dance floor packed until it was time for last dance, say goodnight, and bid farewell to the happy couple on their way to their honeymoon in the Hawaiian islands. Congratulations, you two! We couldn’t be happier for you both.