Weddings call for special moments, but for Alena + Bryan's family, this had a whole new meaning. After Alena's sister was diagnosed with cancer, her husband was then diagnosed with ALS. It's truly remarkable that Nathan was able to join in on the celebration and be there to see his sister in law tie the knot. There was not a dry eye in the house! From their beautifully draped ceremony backdrop to the classic navy color scheme, this wedding was heartwarming in every way. Take a look at the photos by Erin Lee Allender below and read her take on the couple's meaningful day filled with family love…
Alena + Bryan
W.O. Smith
12.5.16
Wedding Team:
Photographer | Erin Lee Allender Photography
Venue | W.O. Smith Music School
Flowers | A Village of Flowers
Cake | Homestyle Bakery
Catering | Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe
Entertainment | J. Clark w/ Snyder Entertainment
Beverage | Yazoo Brewing Company
From the photographer, Erin Lee Allender:
I first met Alena 6 years ago when I photographed her sister Kathleen's wedding. When Alena contacted me to photograph her and Bryan's wedding, I was so excited to work with her and her family again. Alena is one of three sisters so I knew there would be lots of sister banter and if Kathleen's wedding was any indication of what the reception would be like, I knew that I would be photographing her dad getting down on the dance floor. When I met Bryan, my excitement became even greater because as you'll see in the photos, he's such a good natured and fun guy.
If you've known me for a little while, you have heard me talk about this family a lot. They have been through so much together. Alena's sister Kathleen (my previous bride) had cancer and as soon as she was pronounced in remission, Kathleen's husband Nathan (my previous groom) was diagnosed with ALS. This family is a tight knit unit so when Alena's wedding day came, this family was there together to welcome Bryan into their tribe. Nathan, despite being bed-bound, not able to talk, and not able to move endured a very painful ambulance ride so that he could be there at Alena's wedding. Alena and Bryan's wedding had a lot of tears but so much laughter and joy because everyone was thrilled that Alena and Bryan had found each other and that they were joining their lives together.
Thank you so much for sharing such a special wedding with us, Erin! You can check out more of Erin Lee Allender's photography work here on her website and also be sure to follow along on Instagram here! And keep in mind – Taziki's can cater your wedding just like Alena + Bryan's! Find out more about their fresh catering options here.
