I’ve been trying to figure out what I can say about Jake and Maria’s wedding. There’s so much I could say…. want to say… and don’t know how to say. What I do know for sure, is I’ve been going around telling everyone it was the best wedding I’ve ever witnessed…. and telling why get’s difficult.
First, you must know Jake and Maria, because they are amazing. Jake is one of 5 kids in his family and Maria is one of 10. Knowing that there were 15 siblings present… not to mention countless nieces and nephews, I knew from the start it would be a family affair. I first met Jake in college when we were both on the same mission team in Jamaica. He had such a passion and zeal for the Jamaican people. During this trip he pretty much was there with the intent of becoming a seminarian for Jamaica…. where he could live out the rest of his days as a priest. He even took a year to live there and minister full time to Jamaica. Also on our mission team, was Joe… Maria’s “little” brother. Joe was pretty sure he was going to one day get married … Well, God had other plans in store for these two! Joe is now a seminarian studying to become a Catholic priest and Jake married his “big” sister. It truly is amazing how God works in our lives.
It was very evident how much God is present in and through Jake and Maria. The entire day was focused primarily on the Sacrament that was taking place. From amazing worship lead by talented Catholic musicians/siblings Martin Doman and Alicia (Doman) Hernon, 6 Priests, 4 Seminarians, 29 bridesmaids/groomsmen/flower girl/ring bearers, and around 200 family and friends… how can it be anything but epic? Every single person in attendance worshiped with all their heart along with Jake and Maria and the joy was probably felt down the street….
I’m sure I have a lot more to say, but let’s begin with the pictures, shall we?
I guess we have to start with the rehearsal. Jake and Maria had a holy hour following the rehearsal. Her brother, Martin led praise and worship while every prayed, praised, and even had an opportunity for confession.
Following the actual rehearsal, they held a pig roast at the brides family home. Her family has a HUGE “backyard” complete with play equipment, lots of space I imagine has been filled with football and soccer, and a zip line. We’ll get to the zip line, later 
They strung up some gorgeous lights and I have to say, it made a GREAT venue!
The next day, for the wedding, I met jake and his groomsmen at their hotel.
OK, When I was going through the images, I pretty much busted out laughing at this one.
Reason number 1,456,233 Jake and Maria are awesome. They prayed for perfect picture weather. I.e. Not too hot and enough cloud cover. Thank you both, I couldn’t ask for better outdoor conditions in the middle of the day!
Of course, then it was time to check in on Maria.
How awesome are her shoes!
Maria dropped the back of her earring and everyone tried to get it. Of course, they soon stood up and Maria got down herself to reach deep under the dresser. Love this girl!
Her mom and Grandmother took this exact picture with this exact dresser/mirror on her mothers wedding day!
One of the things that I love about Maria’s family, is their love for each other. Being one of 10 children, being one of the younger ones, and having a LOT of nieces and nephews it goes beyond just family love. The entire family is very close and always looks out for one another. You would never know that they don’t all live in the same town or state. There is a comfort and love between all members that is very evident.
OK, I had briefly mentioned the zip line… The week before the wedding when Maria sent me her “wish list” of shots, she had mentioned something about wanting a picture on the family zip line if possible. Well, as soon as I read this I was pretty excited. Of course I would do anything possible to make this wish a reality for her! The more “offbeat” the idea the more I love it! We scoped it out the night before and then right before we left for the church (she’s one brave lady!) we began the orchestration of getting Maria…. in her dress… up a ladder, onto the zip line, and rigging it and us up to prevent any accidents or dirt/tears in the dress etc. It was a one shot kind of deal and if you ask me, the risk is pretty much always worth it. I’m so glad we got to do this, I LOVE the result!
This is Fr. Stan. He was the celebrant of the mass, and was in Jamaica with Jake and I. Pretty much one of my favorite priests of all time. He spent the year in Jamaica with Jake as well when they went back. If you want to know about missionary spirit, this is your man. I don’t even know if it’s possible to count all the places he’s ministered to in the world.
As if you need further proof how awesome Maria’s family is…. I think this is my favorite family picture of all time…. So fun!
Left to right, youngest to oldest. (+ Jake)
Jake also comes from an amazing family! You really just couldn’t help but feel the love!
This is another picture that just makes me laugh. I still have NO idea what the blue bear was about… other than I’m thinking a ploy from the brides brother to dance with her… It worked 
This couple has been married just shy of 50 years. They still look at each other like it was their first dance…. I love it!
I know, this was long post, but I couldn’t help myself! I could go on and on about so many moments through the day…. little things that were said… but I’ll leave it with these images.
Jake and Maria, It was an immense blessing to be there and witness your wedding and meet your families. I can’t wait to see what else God has in store for you.
