Cole and Stephanie’s Evansville Wedding

The title of this post is probably misleading. Stephanie and Cole were actually married at Simpson United Methodist Church, but their reception was in Stephanie’s parents’ backyard! How fun is that?!

The bride and groom both prepared for the day at the church in separate areas. They didn’t want to see one another before the walk down the aisle, so keeping them separated was very important.

The First Look – Without the Look

Although, they didn’t see each other before the ceremony, the pair did share a special moment together. They stood back to back in the stairwell of the church fighting every temptation to turn around and lay eyes on their soon-to-be spouse.

They stood for a silent moment, holding one another’s hands before exchanging and reading letters they had written to one another. It was one of the most special and heartfelt parts of their wedding day.

After returning to their separate rooms, Stephanie and Cole were each surrounded by their bridesmaids and groomsmen, respectively, for a group prayer. Stephanie’s bridesmaids, mother, grandmother and soon-to-be mother-in-law all laid their hands on her as they prayed over her. Their relationship is deeply rooted in their faith, and this was just one of the ways that that came through on their wedding day.

The Ceremony

As Stephanie approached her groom on her walk down the aisle with her father, Cole had the sweetest look of love in his eyes for his bride. After saying their vows, the very first thing the two did was serve communion to their guests. They wanted their first act as a married couple to be one of service. Are you sensing how sweet and loving these two are yet?!

After being announced as Mr. and Mrs. Cole Raven, the newlyweds headed back to the stairwell where they had shared a moment before the ceremony and rang the church bell together. It was one of the moments they had looked forward to the most on their wedding day, and the smiles on their faces made that very evident!

The Reception

Stephanie’s parents live in a beautiful open area on the west side of Evansville, and it was the perfect setting for their wedding reception. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal catered by Acropolis before hearing two heartfelt toasts by the maid of honor and best man.

Their first dance song was sang by two members of their church small group, which was such a special touch to the celebration.

Congrats to you, Mr. and Mrs. Raven! You’re two of the most humble, sincere and loving people I’ve had the privilege of knowing, and you have a beautiful life ahead of you!

Be sure to view the slideshow below to view more images not found in this blog post!

 

Wedding Ceremony Venue: Simpson United Methodist Church
Bridal Hair: Cheryl’s Cut Above
Bridal Gown: Olivia Bowen Bridal Boutique, Melbourne, FL
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: David’s Bridal
Florals: Zeidler’s, Evansville, IN
Catering: Acropolis, Evansville, IN
Second Photographer: Shanon Miranda Photography, Evansville, IN