Jake and Nicole have had their ups and downs over the years, mostly concerning Nicole’s blood sugar level and the constant monitoring it requires. Through the medical roller coaster, the couple has grown stronger and learned that it’s the little things in life that make it worth living. Their wedding—from the vows to the kiss to the first dance—showed their closest friends and family just how devoted they are to each other.

The ceremony took place at The BARn, located north of Platteville, on May 20, 2017, which happened to be a misty-rainy day. It wasn’t quite what they had planned for their wedding, but there’s no bargaining with Mother Nature and they were able to make the best of the soggy day. All outdoor activities were moved indoors to a large, white tent.

If you asked each of them who was more excited for their wedding that morning, Jake would have had the loudest “me.” Jake was the details guy for the wedding, but one detail he didn’t take part in planning was Nicole’s appearance for that day. Standing at the arch in front of their friends and family, Jake wiped his sweaty hands on his pants showing how nervous he was to see his bride. When the music changed announcing Nicole would be making her appearance, the crowd stood, effectively blocking his view until she was at the end of the aisle, directly in front of him. Seeing her in her wedding gown and Converse shoes walking down the path with her dad brought tears to Jake’s eyes.

The couple was joined by two bridesmaids, two groomsmen, a matron of honor, best man and a miniature bride and groom. The bride’s brother, Reid, served as officiate and the mothers of the bride and groom took part in the ceremony by lighting the candles for the unity ceremony.

Jake and Nicole wrote their own vows, sharing the sweetest, most meaningful promises to each other. Reid announced them Mr. and Mrs. Price and gave them permission to share their first kiss as bride and groom. Their first kiss was one of those only-in-the-movies, you-know-they’re-so-in-love types of kisses. Just when you thought they were done, Jake wrapped his arms around Nicole and pulled her closer for a longer, deeper kiss. When they finally remembered they were standing in front of a large crowd, they danced down the aisle arm-in-arm.

It was a wedding to remember.

I want to formally congratulate this wonderful couple and thank them for allowing me to be a part of their special day.