Candi and Fred first met through a shared love of music (specifically trumpets), faith and their shared alma mater. Over time they became friends and then colleagues, often playing professional gigs together in various groups. Candi and Fred are both involved in the music industry and crossed paths at several events over the years. Time passed and they became the best of friends and eventually they realized there was more to their friendship. Fred proposed last year on a beach at sunset in his home state of North Carolina.

I got to know Candi because she is one of three talented Band teachers at my kids’ middle school and worked with my son in Wind Ensemble. She is kind, talented and endlessly supportive, and I was thrilled when I heard the great news that she was engaged to Fred. I was then truly honored when she asked me to photograph her wedding, it meant so much for me to be there! Conrad and I made the drive to the beautiful and historic Conn Mansion in Elkhart, Indiana to be a part of Candi and Fred’s celebration. I’m always happy to work with Conrad but a roadtrip wedding is extra fun for us!

Candi had planned an elegant and romantic celebration for her and Fred with only their closest family and friends in attendance. We arrived at the gorgeous mansion and were in love with all of the details throughout this historic home. Musicians filled the wrap-around porch and music floated through the air as everyone prepared for the ceremony. Candi was radiating joy as she got dressed with her cousins and best friend, we could have made portraits of her in the mansion for hours it was just so fun and special to photograph her as a bride in this place.

After taking some pictures with the girls and guys separately upstairs it was time for the ceremony to begin. Candi and Fred were both just so sweetly happy when they saw each other for the first time as she walked down the aisle. The ceremony was rooted in God’s word and stayed true to Candi and Fred’s faith, something that is really important to each of them. Once they were pronounced husband and wife they happily made their way inside for the sweetest cake cutting. Surrounded by their guests Candi and Fred enjoyed their first “meal” as husband and wife, surely the first of many, many more to come. We loved being part of this beautiful day!