Madi + Jon's wedding was the perfect summer dream.

The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is Fort Wayne's verdant heart. As you enter this santucary of peacefulness, welcomed by soft music and lovely greenery you'll see children giggling and chasing butterflies, families creating lasting memories, and couples stealing kisses on their first or 100th date. It is a place of pure enchantment, the perfect backdrop for Madi + Jon's joyful day.

I met Madi at the hotel next door as she was getting ready for the day and it was a scene of pure joy and excitedment. She was accompanied by her mom and her mother-in-law. They welcomed me in and made me feel like a friend immediately. Everyone seemed so excited but at ease. Their laughter and shared stories, mostly centered around the groom-to-be, Jon, created a warm and inviting ambiance.

A truly touching moment unfolded as Madi presented her mom with a breathtaking watercolor painting of her own wedding day. The thoughtful gesture brought tears of happiness to both of them.. Madi's dress, a masterpiece in its own right, seemed custom-made for her. The strapless bodice, adorned with intricate floral appliqués, accentuated her figure flawlessly. As she slipped into the gown, a cascade of happy tears flowed, a testament to the emotional significance of the day.

To capture this magical moment, we ventured to the Conrad, the lobby bar of the Marriott. Its unique lantern-style lighting created a dramatic backdrop that perfectly complemented Madi's effortless beauty. Against the dark, art deco-inspired surroundings, she absolutely glowed.

While Madi and her loved ones were basking in pre-wedding bliss, the boys were busy preparing for their big day next door at the venue. My incredibly talented second shooter, Tabitha, was on hand to capture their laughter and camaraderie.I'm convinced it's better to remain blissfully ignorant of the topics that sent them into fits of giggles.

Madi + Jon opted to keep their first sight of each other for the ceremony, building anticipation for their grand entrance. However, she did share a heartwarming moment with her dad in a private first look. It was a truly special exchange, filled with sweet sentiment. I’ll admit, I have a soft spot for those tearful dad-of-the-bride moments

Jon's palpable excitement was almost tangible as he stood at the altar, awaiting his bride. His uncle led a sprited ceremony that enveloped everyone present. The venue buzzed with anticipation as Madi made her grand entrance. When they were pronounced, the ensuing cheers could have rivaled the nearby baseball stadium.

The couple was surrounded by loved ones as they exchanged vows. Madi's two younger brothers were exemplary bridesmen, offering unwavering support on their sister's special day. While Madi’s maid of honor, unable to attend due to the recent arrival of a new baby, was missed, her spirit was undoubtedly present. She ensured Madi felt loved and supported from afar. Jon’s brother and two longtime friends stood proudly by his side.

Some of my favorite moments as a photographer are the intimate ones, when I get to simply observe a couple and capture their genuine connection. The botanical conservatory provided an enchanting backdrop for Madi and Jon's portraits. With its diverse ecosystems, it felt like we'd journeyed through different worlds in a matter of minutes. The desert room held special significance for them, as it echoed the setting of their engagement in Arizona. Watching them lose themselves in each other's company was truly magical. It was a refreshing break from the wedding day's excitement, a chance for them to relax and simply be together.

The reception unfolded under a tented canopy on the botanical conservatory's terrace. As the DJ announced the newlyweds, the crowd erupted in cheers, welcoming Mr. and Mrs. Yoder. Madi and Jon shared a lovely first dance, followed by heartfelt dances with their parents. The best man delivered a heartwarming speech, painting a vivid picture of his enduring friendship with Jon and offering a glimpse into the couple's kind and compassionate natures. A prerecorded speech from Madi’s maid of honor added a touch of emotional depth to the evening, celebrating their cherished bond. Laughter, dancing, and shared stories filled the night as guests reveled in the couple's joy. As the evening drew to a close,a bittersweet feeling washed over me. Some weddings are so perfect, you wish tyou could live in the moment forever. But as I bid farewell to the newlyweds, I knew I was witnessing the beginning of a beautiful chapter.

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vendors:

Venue: Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory (https://www.botanicalconservatory.org)

DJ: DJ Ajax

Catering: Shigs n Pit (https://shigsinpit.com)