Faith-Inspired Wedding at Nazareth Hall in Grand Rapids, Ohio

It was the most beautiful summertime celebration at Hayley and Steven’s faith-inspired wedding at Nazareth Hall in Grand Rapids, Ohio! 💗

Hayley and Steven met in elementary school. Although they shared friends throughout high school, they had not spent a lot time together as they were involved in different activities. After graduating high school, Hayley went off to college, and Steven joined the Marines. A year later, the two found themselves catching up through casual text messages. But soon, their friendship turned into romance, and they spent the next seven months dating long distance from across the country!

In April of 2019, Steven drove from the West Coast to Ohio to meet with Hayley’s parents and ask for her hand in marriage. Later that evening, he planned a date night for Hayley … and proposed at dinner! 💍

Upon meeting Hayley and Steven, you will instantly recognize that they both have incredibly kind hearts. They both have giving spirits and an unwavering faith in God. Being mindful of the blessings God has given them was kept at the forefront of planning for their special day. But, wedding planning proved to be an interesting task while Hayley was completing her college degree and completing an internship on the opposite U.S. coast! There were many video chats and help from their family in order to make their wedding vision come to life.

Their wedding day brought rain for good luck in the morning and the most glorious clear skies for the remainder of the day! Hayley was smiling from ear to ear ALL. DAY. LONG. She looked like the most perfect princess in her gorgeous ball gown. Truly … PERFECTION.

Meanwhile, I got tearful when witnessing all the special faith-inspired moments Hayley and Steven shared throughout the day. At the ceremony in front of the lovely grotto at Nazareth Hall, the happy couple shared their personally-written vows. (Gets me every time. 😭) The couple graciously offered communion to all during what was a very special and memorable part of the day for them both while people they love in heaven looked on. And at their reception, the couple danced and sang to their first dance song, “When God Made You” by Newsong. They glowed with such genuine joy and thanks to God for connecting them. It was so touching.

Only a couple of days after their wedding, Hayley and Steven headed off on a road trip across the United States in a moving truck. I hear they made a stop at the Grand Canyon, eventually reaching their destination at their home together in California where Steven is stationed. I know that they are so happy to FINALLY be able to see one another daily! And congruent with their giving spirits, they have hopes of volunteering together in their community.

Hayley and Steven, it was truly a privilege to witness you attesting your love and devotion to each other. Wishing you a lifetime of happiness and blessings!