Abbey & Brett | Norman, OK Wedding Photographer | The University of Oklahoma Memorial Union - Molly Shi Boren Ballroom | Michelle Valantine Photography

They started dating over skype.  After meeting in high school, she traveled to Europe and he enlisted in the Army. Skype worked, and Abbey exclaims, "we were thrilled when we were finally in the same state again!"

The day of the wedding, Abbey fell ill.  Her bridesmaids and Mom attended to her, while Brett took care of the ever changing plans of the day.  As their photographer, I stressed as our photography timeline fell apart.  But I also witnessed something very tender and prominent emerging before my eyes...their love, respect and concern for one another.  Together, they were stronger.

Star Wars was the theme.  The bridesmaids wore elegant black dresses with brightly colored heels coordinating with their light sabers, which they held instead of bouquets.  The bride wore ankle bracelets instead of shoes.  And a jeweled cape instead of a veil.  Their maid of honor drove across state borders carting an elegant chocolate wedding cake her mom made for the celebration.  The bride had a first look with both her dad and her groom.  Her dad married them.  Her maid of honor placed a trash can by the stage where they said their vows (just in case!).  Their day was uniquely them.  A beautiful testament of love and real life.  Of celebration.  Of letting go.  Of Plan B's.  Of endurance and strength.  All qualities of a wonderful marriage.

  

  

  

What was your favorite part of your wedding day?
Brett:  The vows.
Abbey:  Reading our vows...Brett was crying like a baby.

What advice would you give to couples planning their wedding?
Brett:  Proper planning is key, but most plans go up in smoke regardless...so, adapt.
Abbey:  Get a wedding planner or prepare to face off against everyone in your life. There were so many battles I was forced to wage even though people preached about how it was my wedding. If I could do it all again, we'd elope.

What is your favorite part about being married now?

Brett:  Life hasn't changed much.

Abbey:  Brett and I are great. Being married hasn't really changed anything, and we're looking for a house!

Groomsmen Attire - Meryem Hampton 

Lightsabers | Ultrasaber.com

 Venue & Catering | The University of Oklahoma Memorial Union

Dress | David's Bridal

Cake | Pam Macias 

Invitations, Menu & Signs | S-tetic Creative Graphic Design