Clint & Rachel | A Hometown Wedding at St. Stephen's United Church of Christ in Merrill & Stoney Creek in Wausau, Wisconsin.

Clint & Rachel | A Hometown Wedding at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ in Merrill & Stoney Creek in Wausau, Wisconsin.

August 10, 2016

Even though it was really out of my control, one thing I’m very proud of is to be from the Midwest. On our day off last week, Caleb + I were walking around downtown Madison near the State Capitol. A man stopped us + asked us about the Capitol Building, “What is this place?,” he asked, pointing at the remarkable architecture. We quickly learned that he lives in California + happened to be in Madison for a few days for a job training he had to attend. He proceeded to tell us how much he had loved his time in Wisconsin so far + said, I quote, “Everyone is so nice here. Where I’m from, no one pays attention to anyone else. They are always on their phones, going from one place to the next. They’re not friendly like they are here.” While of course, that’s a generalization regarding both of our homelands, the statement he made about the Midwest is exactly what I’m proud of. I’m proud to be from a region that is known for being kind, friendly to everyone — even if they don’t know them, hardworking, + down-to-earth.

So why do I share this story in Clint + Rachel’s blog post? Aren’t I supposed to be talking about them + their wedding day? The thing is that this story is a perfect example of everything I want to say about Clint + Rachel — AND their families. From the moment we met these two, we couldn’t believe how KIND they were — truly, they are two of the nicest people we have EVER met. I mean that with all sincerity. They are exemplary human beings with incredible work ethic, relentless generosity, and I’ll say it again, kindness. Honest, genuine kindness.

On their wedding day, it all made sense — who Clint + Rachel are + why they are the way they are (that’s a mouthful to say!). Their families are just the SAME. Two sets of parents who have laid a marriage foundation that is rooted in friendship, teamwork, + trust. Siblings who have nothing but pride + support for one another. There is just SO much love in these families … I’m obviously struggling to find words to describe it. What I’m trying to say is that these two families TRULY represent what I am proud of here in the Midwest. They are kind, hardworking people who put love + family + relationships above everything else. Who can laugh + cry together in the most honest of ways. Being surrounded by these families on Clint + Rachel’s wedding day was just SO incredible for Caleb + I — it was honestly probably one of the best wedding day experiences we have ever had. The love + the KINDNESS — how many times have I said those words in this post!? — but that’s what it was. That’s what made the day SO great.

How amazing to know that Clint + Rachel will now only carry on this legacy in their family trees. Because they have been raised with such a special blessing + I ALREADY see them walking in that + taking it so seriously. I’m really excited to share some of our favorite photos from their day with you — I only wish I could share the feelings, too : ) Enjoy, + have an incredible Thursday + weekend!! XO <3