I Do: Jason and Ruth

I don't even know where to begin with this post...I just have so very much I could say. I smiled so much shooting Jason and Ruth's wedding that my cheeks hurt at the end of the night. It was an experience that I can honestly say I am grateful to have been a part of. I know that both Brook and Melissa who shot the wedding with me feel the exact same way. I have to say, going into the day, I knew it would not be a "normal" American style wedding. Ruth was born and raised in Nigeria before coming to the United States with her parents who are missionaries. The whole day was such an experience for me...a true glimpse into someone else's world...I just loved it. From the food to the music and the culture I was just soaking it in. Did I mention I had fun?! ha.  Ruth Gado met her husband Jason Coleman in Philly where they are both musicians. Jason was of course born and raised in the United States so he had a lot of learning to do when it came to Nigerian customs! After meeting up for their engagement session a few months ago I knew that their wedding day would be a blast. They are just completely in love and that makes my job a breeze! Enjoy some of my favorites from their Irmo, SC wedding. It was really hard for me to narrow it down!     

     

   

This is one of my favorites!!! love!

 Ruth was so easy to capture. She looked stunning! It's so hard to choose just a few!

 Precious. Look at those eyes!

  I love these shots. Seeing the bride and grooms reaction to seeing one another is probably my favorite part of the whole day.

Both fathers prayed for the couple during the ceremony...so powerful.  

Pronouncing the marriage- they did it!  

Love the vibrant dresses. In Nigeria every family essentially has their own pattern. So it was really easy to tell who was related at the reception! 

 Speechless. They are such a beautiful couple.

  

 

 The dancing was awesome. I want a soundtrack of Nigerian music. It was so much fun. You can see Melissa shooting in the background below. Notice the smile on her face...I am telling you it was a good time!

 A Nigerian wedding custom. The money represents their offering to the new couple starting their lives together.

They did it!!!! Love it.