It’s funny, sometimes the best moments are the hardest to put into words. That’s how it’s been with Cody and Lauren’s wedding. These pictures have been waiting patiently, and I’ve just been wanting to get it right.
I remember meeting Lauren and Cody last summer out on the west coast of Michigan (you really should see their engagement photos!). I just knew their wedding day would be something special.
The weather wasn’t exactly what you dream of for a wedding, but the Toledo Zoo? It’s pretty magical no matter what. We even had a little rain, so their ceremony had to move inside. But honestly, I can’t imagine their day being any better. Lauren and Cody were surrounded by their favorite people – friends and family who made this feel like such a close, happy gathering. Everything just fell into place. From their first look to dancing the night away, every moment felt so joyful.
Congratulations, Cody and Lauren! You guys are truly wonderful!
Photography (since ya need three at a party this big): Michele, Maria Loomis, and Janell Traicoff
Venue: The Toledo Zoo
Wedding Planner: Amanda Caig
Florals: Garden View Weddings
Lauren’s Dress: Martina Liana from The Gown Shop in Perrysburg
Makeup: Merle Norman in Perrysburg
Cake: So Sweet Pastries
Music: Decorative Sound
This story. It’s one of many little stories that happened during Lauren and Cody’s wedding day that just makes my heart flutter. Cody was patiently waiting on the other side of these trees and Lauren was going to come up behind him and tap him on the shoulder. There are a few ways to approach a first look, but this ended up pretty sweet. She saw just the slightest glimpse of him through the trees, and it was by far one of the sweetest things captured.
The zoo has one of the most incredible locations for…well, for everything. But it was especially wonderful to enjoy cocktail hour outside and have a chance to feed the giraffes. So many priceless faces on people experiencing such a cool event and being so close to such incredible animals. And one of them reallllly liked Lauren. 🙂
The last part of the evening took place in the Malawi Event Center. This beautiful room has been completely renovated in the last year with a massive aquarium, and man, was it one of the best places to have a party. I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else.
