They stood at the altar, side by side as they officially committed their lives to one another. And with a simple gesture, Stephen summarized that commitment when he reached up to brush one of Jessica’s tears off her smile-sore cheek. They’ve each found someone to wipe their tears away for the rest of their lives.

After their fabulous New Smyrna Beach engagement session, we knew we were in for a treat when we got to be a part of their wedding day — and we were. Their incredibly sweet wedding day began at Jessica’s hotel — with a gorgeous blush Martina Liana gown.

I think Jessica wins the award for “most comfortable bridal shoes of the year” for her sea-star-charmed Juicy Couture sandals — and the award for “cutest wedding accessory” for Sophia, who arrived at the hotel fresh from a nap and completely unconvinced that her naptime needed to be over.After Sophia had had enough of helping her mom get ready, Jessica’s ten bridesmaids took over.Meanwhile, Jessica’s parents drove Sophia across town to where Stephen was getting ready so Sophie could spend some time with her dad — and bring him a gift from Jessica.And then, the ceremony, with so many proud smiles and happy tears.It’s official! Also official: Their bridal party was great — and not only because they braved the unseasonable heat for some gorgeous portraits when we arrived at Maison & Jardin.Inside, everything was set up for a lovely, elegant reception.Is it just me, or do brides and grooms always look positively ecstatic when they enter their reception?!Between the first and second course, we slipped back outside with Jessica and Stephen for their portraits as the sun — and thankfully the temperature! — dropped. These two were incredible together! I tried to decide which portrait was my favorite and I couldn’t. Let’s just label them all favorites!We headed back inside for dinner, and then the rest of the special dances: one mother-son dance and two father-daughter dances — because not only did Jessica’s dad take her for a whirl around the dance floor, but Stephen and Sophia shared a dance, too.And then it was time for a party!I absolutely loved this series of shots, when one of Stephen’s relatives let Stephen’s grandmother know I wanted to take a picture of them . . . and then found herself temporarily removed from the picture!I think Jessica and Stephen and their guests would have danced all night! But they wrapped up with a sweet sendoff.If you’d like to see more, watch Jessica and Stephen’s slideshow.

Jessica and Stephen, we are so, so happy for you two and Sophia! Your day was an absolute joy, and we hope your honeymoon to Europe was just as much fun! We can’t wait to see what’s next for your beautiful family.

~ Laura + Danny

Vendors:

Hotel: Embassy Suite Altamonte Springs
Church: St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church
Reception Venue: Maison & Jardin
Bride’s Gown: Martina Liana, purchased at Bridal Ltd.
Bride’s Sash: Sashe, purchased at Bridal Ltd.
Bride’s Shoes: Juicy Couture
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: David’s Bridal
Hair and Makeup: Amanda from Sessions Hair Company
Groom’s Suit: Macy’s
Groom’s Watch: Breitling
Florist: Peddles
Cake: Heavenly Cheesecake
DJ: Weddings Only DJ Entertainment
Photography: Laura Yang Photography