Real Wedding: Jennifer & David

Written by David Schuster / Photography by Jeff Schaefer Photography

Jen and I had known for some time that in each other, we had found an ideal match. We regularly acknowledged that our lives had prepared us for the time that we met so that we would recognize each other as a compliment and life partner. We had discussed marriage and our common hopes and dreams on numerous occasions. She simply did not know when, nor how I would ask her to marry me. The preparation came very naturally. I had picked the day long in advance. I had selected a wonderful engagement ring for her with the help of Merkley Kendrick Jewelers. The hard part was dealing with the anticipation.

I proposed to Jen on March 20th, 2012 – the Vernal Equinox. I chose that day because of its symbolic significance. The Vernal Equinox marks the shift into spring, a season during which life flourishes, a season of positive change, growth, and renewal. I felt that it was an auspicious day to ask Jen to marry me, to ask her to join with me in changing our lives forever. To my great joy, she agreed to my proposal and to lovingly accept me, and my boys, into her life as family!

We began to plan our wedding immediately. We both envisioned an outdoor wedding in a beautiful location. We discussed a destination wedding with a reception/party back in Louisville afterward. We considered several locations around Louisville. Then we found our spot – a diamond in the rough! A law partner of Jen’s recommended that we look into Richwood Plantation, in Milton, across the river from Madison, Indiana. On our way home from a trip to Cincinnati, we made a point of stopping to check it out. We were blown away! A historic mansion and farm that has been converted into a luxurious Bed & Breakfast, Richwood is nestled into the banks of the Ohio River. The views were majestic, the scenery was bucolic, and the accommodations were perfect for us!

Location secured, we began to work on the details. From the start, we desired to make the day special for us as a couple and to make it a unique experience for our guests. We desired a day of celebration in beautiful surroundings. We hoped for it to be elegant, but comfortable at the same time. We wanted to make it refined, yet kid-friendly. We were willing to take chances and to explore novel possibilities. We included traditional elements only if they fit our vision or held importance to us personally. We insisted upon creating an unforgettable day for everyone in attendance. The day was to be one of pure celebration of family, of friends, and of our love for each other. And it was!

Our wedding planners, Diane & Deb of Just Breathe, were instrumental in helping us to realize our vision of “casual elegance”. Our friends and family were large in numbers and diverse personalities. We had planned something for everyone: Quiet places for conversation; a dance floor for those who wanted to cut loose; cornhole and an inflatable bouncy for those who wanted to play; a candy cart for the kids; ample bourbon for the adults; a photobooth for good laughs; and, great southern comfort food to fill everyone’s bellies.

Our décor was elegant, yet also fun and festive. Our music was unique and fabulous; from processional music and a concert that our friends gave us, to the dance grooves DJ Dwight Johnson laid down late into the night. The tent and grounds looked spectacular! It was an amazing day-although it had almost become a nightmare.

On the morning of our wedding day, we awoke to rain. The radar and weather forecast looked abysmal. It called for rain all day and heavy, perhaps severe thunderstorms during the wedding and reception. Jen & I had worked for over a year planning our dream day – and now faced a potentially ruinous weather forecast. Instead of panic and tears, we began to prepare for a very different day than previously planned. With great effort on the parts of many, a lot of creativity, and a number of crossed fingers, we managed to make arrangements for celebrating despite inclement weather.

Jen said something to me that morning that has become sage advice and a life lesson. She stressed to me that how we looked at things and how we acted would set the tone for everyone else. She also reminded me that rain or not, we were celebrating something beautiful and that’s what was most important. Jen radiated poise and composure. Her unflappable demeanor inspired me and was yet another indicator that I was blessed to have her in my life.

When it was time for the wedding party pictures, the rain stopped. As the skies began to clear, our outlook on the day brightened. Jef Schaefer, our stellar photographer, commented that he had perfect natural lighting for our pictures. The skies remained clear as guests arrived. The only rain that came the rest of the day arrived at the commencement of the ceremony and it actually added a lovely backdrop to the event. The brief shower ended precisely with the end of the ceremony and we were then treated to perfect conditions for the rest of the evening, including a marvelous sunset.

A day that began with the bleakest outlook ended up being better than we could have imagined. All in attendance had a great day celebrating. Jen & I were joyfully wed and showered with love and support by our family and friends – what a wonderful way to begin the rest of our lives with each other!