Rainy Winter Wedding

Jillian and Seraphin have a really special story that I’m only going to try and do justice. They met in Benin, Africa where Jillian went to do mission work at an orphanage that Seraphin was working at as well. I love how God brought them together in the most special way. How he knew exactly when Jillian would be there. How he knew exactly what the two of them would need and when they would need it.

Eventually Jillian adopted sweet Dori from the orphanage, who is the adorable flower girl that you will see in the pictures below. What is so cool is that now she will forever have a mommy and a daddy who love her and can care for her every need. She is such a special little girl as you can see. She also got to be in the wedding with her best friend who also was in the SAME orphanage! Are you beginning to see how cool this story is?! He was adopted by Jillian’s matron of honor, Ashley and her husband, Seraphin’s best man, John. They all work together in Benin as they are fulfilling God’s calling on their lives.

Now for the crazy story of the wedding day! It was just a typical rainy December day. We were a little bummed, but had worked it out with God that we would get at least 10 minutes rain free for outdoor bride and groom portraits. And we did!!! So the ceremony and reception were at two different places. They got ready a NOAH’s, had the ceremony at their church, then had the reception back at NOAH’s. So as we left NOAH’s for the ceremony, it began to drizzle a little. Right before we pulled into the church it was POURING cats and dogs! The party bus pulled up so close to the building so the bridal party could get in as dry as possible. Right as that was happening, the tornado sirens started blaring! On their wedding day. Seraphin, being from Africa did not know what they were. So they as they were explaining it to him in French, we were all checking the weather and taking cover. Soon the sirens stopped and people started arriving for the ceremony. We only pushed it back by 5 minutes! Amazing right?!

The ceremony was beautiful. Jillian and Seraphin said their vows in both English and French and as they exited, Dori went with them. A family united at last. We were able to get to the reception venue safely with no crazy weather and partied the night away!

I’m so thankful we were able to be a part of this day. Jenny and I both teared up several times because it was just so special and their story is so cool. I know I say this a lot, but I just love what we get to do for a living. It’s truly magical.