This wintery elopement in South Bend day was planned in three weeks by the bride herself. Katie is an absolute superstar! This day was so special and filled with so much love, it was truly an honor to be a part of it and be able to capture it.

A few weeks ago, Katie texted me about some changes in their wedding plan. When the family found out that Katie’s mom had been diagnosed with cancer, the wedding priorities quickly changed to ensure she was there to witness her marriage to the love of her life.

The Fernander family truly made me feel as though I was part of the family and it is such a blessing when I feel this. Everyone from Katie, to her mom and even Katie’s sister, Ellie made me feel as though I wasn’t just someone hired to take pictures, but a friend who was part of this special day, as well. I can’t tell you how much of an honor that is as a wedding photographer!

To the newlyweds, Mr. & Mrs. Goldsmith,

Thank you so much for allowing me to be part of this intimate ceremony. It was such a blessing to witness your marriage and join you in celebrating the start of your forever! I can’t wait to see YOU ALL again in June. So many prayers for your mom and family. And congratulations! Enjoy some favorites of your day from point of view 🙂

xo, Court

Katie’s details are so special. Nick’s grandmother’s ring is her engagement ring. Her earrings are the same earrings her mother wore for her wedding and the bands they used for this day are borrowed from their parents! They didn’t have time to get their own bands so they had to improvise!

Also, Katie snagged this Lulus dress for like $100!

This was the day I saw where Katie gets her smiley personality from 🙂

I absolutely love what Katie planned for this moment. After her and Nick’s first dance, she invited his mom to dance with him, her dad to dance with her, and worried her brother may not get the chance to have a dance with his mom, she invited them both to share a dance altogether. It was soo so special.

Then everyone was invited to dance with their significant others together and I can’t get enough of this one of Mr & Mrs Fernander ♥

And as the dancing finished up, light snow began to fall so we quickly moved outside for some portraits by the river! I LOVE SNOWY PORTRAITS!!!

After a frigid 5 minutes in the snow, we headed inside! And HOLY MOSES, Ironhand, y’all have AMAZING FOOD! Wow, I need to visit South Bend again and bring my husband!!

Last-minute idea, by yours truly, after we were done with portraits, I ran over to Ellie, Kaite’s sister (whom I thought would be the best fit for the job) and asked her to emcee announcing the new couple to everyone!