He spoke about how Rachael was just like one of his own daughters — in fact, at his funeral, he said that he wanted her to be sitting in the pew right alongside his own (flesh + blood) children — that’s how much she meant to him. He then talked about how he first met Jon on a mission trip to Honduras; a bunch of guys went down to build houses. Jon was a carpenter … and also really good with kids. He noticed Jon right away — his quiet, humble, genuine, + kind personality. And then it hit him: “I need to introduce Jon to Rachael.” There was a point when he wasn’t sure if he’d ever find someone “good enough” to introduce to Rachael — she was a woman of great faith, a passionate + devoted mother, someone who had gone through some extremely challenging seasons with grace, dignity + hope. And again, since he considered her his daughter, he was very protective … of sorts … and wanted a man who would lead Rachael + her three daughters with that same love, respect, + faith.

Mike, the best man, is the one you could call “responsible” for the love story on the blog today. Or, I guess you could say that Mike was simply a tool used by God to bring Jon + Rachael together all in His perfect timing : ) Their celebration on Saturday was just that — an intimate gathering of their closest family + friends to CELEBRATE the way in which God’s hand has so obviously orchestrated Jon + Rachael’s story. There were LOTS of laughs, hugs, + tears shared all throughout the day, as well as your fair share of those little firecracker-popper-noisemaker things!! You know what I’m talking about?!? Mike was responsible for those, too : )

When I arrived to Rachael’s house where the ladies were getting ready before the ceremony, her three girls were just BURSTING with energy + excitement for the day ahead : ) It was truly captivating to see their enthusiasm + happiness about their mom marrying Mr. “Jonny-poo” (as they call him ; )), + they looked so beautiful + grown up in their gray bridesmaid dresses + fancy hairdos : ) When Jon + Rachael had their first look, they eagerly watched from a tree at the top of the hill … and then ran down to hug him as soon as they got the “okay” from mom : ) Because as much as the day was about God bringing Jon + Rachael together, it was about God bringing Jon to Rachael AND to Taylor, Addie, + Lola : ) A man who they LOVE … and who loves them right back.

The ceremony was incredibly moving as the officiant, a good friend of the couple, talked of God’s plans + how He has so perfectly completed this beautiful family. Everyone sang worship songs together + prayed over the future of the new Wanta family : ) After the ceremony, there were yard games, henna tattoos, food carts, cupcakes, a toboggan slide, + TONS of fun until the sun went down : ) Truly, the most meaningful + special of days … one that Caleb + I couldn’t help but stand back + think, “WOW. What a privilege it is to be the ones who get to document what God has done + is doing in these people’s lives!!!” Jon + Rachael — thank you for not only sharing yourselves but your family with us. We thank + praise God for bringing you together + for bringing you into our lives as well!! Love you FIVE so much, + enjoy some of our favorites from your day!!

Love this family SO much!!!!

Jon is a carpenter … so this wooden wedding ring perfectly suits him!! I LOVE it!!

Oh, these three! I just ADORE them!! 🙂 🙂

Happy, happy, HAPPY!!!

Time to celebrate with food trucks, a mobile coffee bar, + the best of friends!!

Okay, okay … I just HAVE to comment because the falafel was SO amazing!!

FAVORITE!!!

A special thank you to these talented folks!

Ceremony + Reception Venue: Enchanted Valley Acres | Florist: Blooms by Brandi | Cupcakes: Bloom Bake Shop | Hair + Makeup: Rejuvenation Spa | Wedding Dress Shop: Premiere Couture