Once upon a time in a land rather far from Columbus, Ohio,

a hockey player and a nurse fell in love.

Meet the gorgeous (and splendidly fun, I might add) Nathan and Alisha.

It was a privilege to photograph their day, and I'm thrilled to share what I witnessed through my lens.

Here is their day from my perspective...

The speech being penned below was delivered brilliantly later that evening at the reception.

It was genuine, heartfelt, and absolutely hilarious.

Alisha, looking oh-so-stunning.

Alisha was helped into her dress in her parents living room...home.  It felt so appropriate.

About to head out the door, she paused for lipstick at the china cabinet.  This is the wealth of a lifetime of moments at home.

All the pretty ladies.

Guests registered their attendance on a hockey stick.  Fun and original, eh?

The bride was blessed with prayer by her friends moments before she walked down the aisle.

The ceremony was held outdoors, overlooking one of the many lakes that dot the landscape of northwestern Ontario.

It was breathtaking.

Oh yes they did! :)

The new Mr. & Mrs.

Oreo hockey stick favors.  Naturally.

The skies threatened rain most of the day, but generously held off until everyone was safe and sheltered at the reception.

Krystal, the bride's dear friend and personal attendant.  Word on the street is that she's part angel.

 Food is my love language.  Not sure where I heard that...but YES.  Me too.

Fun game: get the hockey puck past the goalie and Nathan and Alisha have to kiss.

The guests were pretty good, so the bride and groom got creative with their kisses.

Nathan held on for dear life as they switched roles and Alisha dipped him for a kiss.

The dessert happiness yielded endless options.

The wedding party participated in a creative and competitive version of musical chairs.  The goal each round was to collect a specified item (comb, international driver's license, socks...yes, you heard me correctly) from wedding guests and return to a seat before none remains.

Nathan's elimination, and the best man doing his best-man duties and providing a shoulder.  Drama, drama.

It wasn't for the faint of heart.  Legit competition here.

Last ladies standing.  The final item to collect was a kiss.  The bride lost to her friend's mad, kiss-collecting skills.  I site length of marriage as the reason for the loss.  Judith (the winner) has been married for seven months.  Alisha hasn't been married for seven hours.  You see the advantage... 

Parents.  Child-raisers. Cheerleaders. Your roots and the place you can always wing home safe.

They blessed and they released.  I think this must be much harder than I can fathom.

It was a lovely day with fantastic people, and such a gorgeous and meaningful wedding.

Nathan and Alisha, you are beautiful together, and I wish you the very best.