Some stories take their time. Jerry had a crush on Emily all the way back in 6th grade, and years later, when the timing finally lined up, he asked her on a first date. Everything grew from there, and we had the honor of capturing the day they made it official at Park Winters.
When we asked them what they love most about each other, their answers said everything about who they are together. Jerry talked about how well their personalities complement one another, and how driven Emily is, the kind of person who decides on something and goes after it. Emily talked about Jerry’s kind heart, and about his resilience. Life has asked a lot of him, and he has met it with a gentleness that has never once wavered.
Family is the thread that runs through everything for these two, and you feel it in a room with them. There were people who could not be there in person, and their love was in that room all day, in the way Jerry carries himself and in the way Emily loves him for it.
The day started the way the best ones do. Emily got ready with her girls and Jerry with his guys, both sides full of laughter and nerves and that particular kind of energy that only happens in a getting ready room. Then one of the groomsmen decided to have a little fun with it and pulled off a surprise prank first look on Jerry. We will not spoil it, but the reaction was worth every second.
Not long after came the real thing. Jerry turned around to see Emily for the first time, and everything got quiet. They shared their private vows right there, just the two of them, and it set the tone for the entire day. Everything after that felt lighter, like the hardest and most tender part was already behind them and the rest was pure celebration.
And the bridal party made sure it was a celebration. This crew was fun from the first frame to the last, the kind of group that keeps everyone loose and laughing.
They said their I do’s in front of the Sunken Garden, surrounded by people who have known and loved them for a long time. During the ceremony, they poured water together into a pot with a small plant in it, a quiet little moment that said more than any words could. It was an intimate ceremony and every seat was filled with someone who mattered.
From there everyone moved into the courtyard, where long tables were set end to end with floral baskets running down the middle. We love a long table. Nobody is tucked away in a corner, everyone is elbow to elbow, and the whole night feels like one big family dinner instead of a room full of separate ones. Dinner and toasts carried on as the light softened, and once the last glass was raised the party moved inside to dance the night away.
Thank you Emily and Jerry for letting us document your day. You have built something steady and warm and full of heart, and it shows in everyone who came to stand around you. We are grateful we got to tell this part of your story.
Love,
Your friends from FJM
