Last Fall, Kara & Kelly cozied up for an engagement session at their favorite summer place.  We walked and discussed everything about our favorite school (our alma mater Hope College), their love story, and the details that would piece together the day they were so desperately looking forward to: their wedding day.  On the first of June, I — along with my husband Adam and Mandy of Portraits by Mandy — found great pleasure in being able to photograph their wedding.  Kara and Kelly are both such humble, kind, and giving people.  It was no surprise to find hundreds in attendance to witness their union in Holland, Michigan.

I love the time Kara’s sister, Erin, spent with her tying up her dress.  I lived in the same dorm as Erin in college, and she too is a true testament to kindness and goodness.

And now…you’re a bride.  And a beautiful one, my dear.

Hiya, Handsome. ; )

Kara and Kelly each got dressed at the church, but opted for a First Look at a nearby park.  Kara couldn’t help by have a little teaser for Kelly before their First Look too!

I can see you!

Not too many people are familiar with this park owned by Hope College, and I must help keep its identity secret for my own photographic purposes. ; )  HOWEVER, Kelly worked for Hope College and mentioned this park for their First Look.  On the busiest wedding day in June (WeddingWire.com said so!), Kara and Kelly spent moments together at this completely quiet and private location — and I loved it so much I almost screamed!

Theirs was one of the most intimate First Looks I’ve photographed.  They simply held each other; neither letting go nor showing any signs of wanting to.

…sigh.<3

The park is lovely, but even more so when occupied by two so absolutely enraptured in love!

Each bridesmaid carried a different bouquet with flowers that made up Kara’s bouquet — adore!

I adore fun, big bridal parties: ones who like getting crazy with me!

NOW LET’S GET MARRIED!
As you walked into the sanctuary, you saw this wedding gift of Kara & Kelly’s :: a personalized painting with their wedding colors and reminiscent of their engagement session.  What a special treasure & keepsake…and talent!

“The rings are secure.”  ;P

I’ve never seen this reaction to a bride before.  Yes, a bride’s groom will be emotionally involved, but each groomsmen and each bridesmaid had a smile on their face.  Kara is a light; she shines.  And as a bride, she radiates joy.

A cord of three strands is not easily broken.
I’ve come to enjoy this unity ceremony celebrating Ecclesiastes 4:12 and the joining of not only husband and wife, but of Christ too creating a stronger marriage.

…the reaction every bride dreams of. ; )
Can I just say that the getaway cars this year have been FABULOUS?!  Worth buying the 16-35mm lens simply for those…

Presenting Mr. & Mrs. Lepley!

…and a high-five!

Their getaway car took them to Midtown Center in Holland near the historical district.  Their known for their bright, big windows & red walled dance floor!

JOY!

I think they both anticipated this cake smash.  I’m surprised I didn’t!

With the cutest audience ever, Kara & Kelly took the dance floor.

AMAZING.  I love the motion blur of all the guys except the one who caught the garter!  Way to go!

With a surprise slideshow montage of baby girl Kara dancing, Mr. VanOordt encouraged everyone onto the dance floor!

PSA: I can now — at the end of photographing 15 weddings — do every dance that is “hip” now.  Not well, but I know the moves!  So let’s wobble, Baby!

You two exude joy…and so did your wedding!  Adam and I (Mandy too!) felt such a special honor in being there to document each part of it.  Thank you, thank you for choosing us!  We are so happy that you two are together, in love, and finally, married!  We wish you nothing but oodles of blessings and happiness!