Kelly & Richie were married at Contento Vineyards in Hopland, in Mendocino County CA. I knew from the moment I hugged Kelly and introduced myself in person, that it was going to be an incredible day…the kind that doesn’t feel like work, but like hanging out with old friends.
Kelly & Richie are both incredible people. I know I say that a lot, but they are the kind of people I would be friends with, the kind of people that would give the shirts off their backs, and the kind of people who don’t take life (or love) for granted. They are the most fun-loving couple I’ve ever met, and were so chill, relaxed, and happy throughout the entire day. Richie is an emotional guy, which I LOVE. I asked if they thought he would cry during the first look, and everyone laughed while saying YES. (Spoiler alert, he definitely did. See below.) The love he has, an exhibits, for Kelly is just overwhelming.
We did their first look at a ranch down the street, and Richie held up a photo of himself over his face to block his view of Kelly. The paddle with the photo(s) was actually made for when Kelly went to try on wedding dresses; one side had a happy Richie face, and the other had a disapproving face. Such a fun idea! And I was happy they were able to reuse it for the first look.
Another favorite memory of mine was the speeches–everyone’s was so heartfelt, and I loved when Kelly’s brother told her to close her eyes and picture her mother’s laugh and smile. It was an emotional moment, and I even caught myself tearing up thinking of, and picturing, my own momma who is also no longer with us. Kelly, you did a wonderful job of honoring her, and I’m sure she was overjoyed watching you tie the knot with Richie!
Mr & Mrs Wilim, I wish you two nothing but the best! I hope I get to see you again sooner than later, and I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. It was an absolute pleasure to witness and photograph your love. Never stop adventuring together 🙂
*note: image quality reduced for faster load times
