They say yawning is contagious but it's safe to say the same could go for smiling. Especially when it's one of those huge grins that are the natural result of pure happiness. And a smile with dimples? Total bonus. If you're like us, and a total sucker for just those kinds of smiles, than you're in luck because Kristina and Lou are going to make you smile without even realizing it because that's what they did pretty much every minute of their wedding day. Grinning ear to ear, dimples in full force, exuding happiness.
From the moment they saw each other at the beginning of the ceremony to the very last dance, they were connected the entire day. Whether they were holding hands or just exchanging sweet glances, you could tell they were just about as happy as two people could possibly be. And it was definitely was contagious. Not only were the two of us moved by the joy Kristina and Lou were spreading around, their friends and family were too. When the night came to a close, Kristina and Lou were arm-in-arm thanking all their guests for sharing the day with them and you could tell the guests probably wanted to thank them as well - for sharing their love with all of them, and giving them a reason to smile.
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We started the day with Kristina and her girls as they were finishing up getting ready in the bridal suite at the Amber Room Colonnade Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury. Amidst champagne toasts and last minute make-up and hair touch-ups, they chatted away and reminisced. Once the time came for Kristina to put on her gown, she had plenty of help from her friends and family who made sure everything was just right.
The ceremony was originally supposed to take place outside on the grounds but a crazily strong wind storm meant a change of plans. It still took place outside, but with the protection of an awning, which meant nothing was blowing around and everyone could actually hear the exchange of vows instead of the howling of the wind. Right after the ceremony we took a few minutes with just Kristina and Lou, giving them the opportunity to take in the fact that they were now officially husband and wife.
They kicked off the reception with their first dance to a song by Kristina's favorite band, Dave Matthews. It was a particularly sweet moment with their friends and family gathered around the floor, holding one another and cheering Kristina and Lou on. After dinner the party really got into full gear - the dance floor opened and the photo booth was hopping. They had so many props for the booth that many times during the night you couldn't really tell which was which, boas on the dance floor, dance moves in the photo booth. It was definitely one fun party - exactly what Kristina and Lou had hoped it would be.
Kristina's dress was simple with just a touch of detail. The flow of the fabric and the flower she had placed in her hair really pulled it all together and created a soft, romantic look.
She selected a cheery yellow color palette which carried through with the bridesmaid's dresses as well.
Finally all dressed and ready to walk down the aisle! Check out her dimple and the smiles on her bridesmaid's faces. How could you not be happy getting to be in the room with all of them?
Kristina's dad took her arm and relived any nerves she may have had about walking out into the sea of people.
And once she locked eyes with Lou and saw the grin on his face, she was completely ready for the ceremony to begin.
The braids and flower in Kristina's hair was perfect for a springtime wedding - the perfect compliment to her dress.
Lots of yellow and green, it's all so spring-y! (That's totally a word!)
Once we were done with the wedding party, we headed to the back of the Amber Room where there is plenty of green and some cool stone walkways. Seemed like a great place for a few quiet moments with just Kristina & Lou.
Kristina and Lou tend to make each other laugh quite a bit as well, something we love to see.
The light coming through the trees was really beautiful and really acted as a perfect backdrop for these images.
This cool walkway is tucked back from the rest of the hall and not so easy to find, but we just loved it.
This sweet ride just happened to be parked outside, not sure if was being raffled off or something, but we didn't think anyone would mind if we took a few shots around it, right?
First dance + Dave Matthews = sweet!
This is just a glimpse into what the party looked like! Kristina & Lou definitely have a solid group of friends and family that know how to have a good time!
Kristina & Lou, thank you so much for inviting us to share in your day. We have loved getting to know you and hope to catch up again soon!
