A Windmill Winery Lake House Wedding
Living in The Land of the Free is only because of The Brave. The United States would be a different country if we didn’t have our military men and women, and my family is proud to support and honor them. We know this is a huge sacrifice and we appreciate their courage and their strength. We have multiple family members who have served across the world and we appreciate every single soldier, both past and present, serving us today.
Marissa and Brett met during their Advanced Individual Training at Ft. Sam Houston, in San Antonio, TX. (This training is after “boot camp” when soldiers are taught their profession in the military, like combat medic, infantry, dental, etc.) Being that their last names were close enough alphabetically, they ended up in the same class together. Marissa said she used to make fun of people who dated during AIT. They would refer to them as “Battle Boo’s” and then she found herself not being able to get Brett out of her head!! They started texting, then talking, and eventually admitted that they liked each other. Fast forward to a kiss on top of the Farris Wheel at Six Flags and these two became inseparable.
One day they decided they wanted to go for a hike. As they hiked up Superstition Mountain, they came to a point in the path where a tree had collapsed. Marissa was preparing herself to climb it. Then she hears Brett’s voice behind her say, “Excuse me”. She turns around to find him on one knee with a ring in his hand! She got at least six miles in on her fit bit that day, and a ring!
For their wedding, they chose to have the ceremony and reception at Windmill Winery’s Lake House. They knew by sharing in a first look they’d get about 60% more portraits, and they’d get a chance to join cocktail hour with their friends and family. Their sweet pup Stella joined the ceremony as the ring bearer. She wore the rings on a pillow on her side. As she finished walking down the aisle, she laid down and waited for her mom to join the ceremony.
As Marissa walked down the aisle with her dad, tears were running down the guest’s face. Marissa’s dad shared the seven blessings, called the Sheva B’rachot. The blessings focus on joy, celebration, and the power of love. They begin with the blessing over a cup of wine, then ending with a blessing of joy, peace, companionship, and the opportunity for the bride and groom to rejoice together. My favorite part of the ceremony was Marissa’s vows. She explained to Brett that before knowing him she was trained to take a bullet for him. They were battle buddies and didn’t even know each other. But now, instead of dying for him, she wants to live for him. I teared up, and I’m pretty sure everyone there did too! Brett kept his vows short and sweet and the two became husband and wife after breaking the glass. The guests cheered, “Mazel tov!” and the happy family of three walked down the aisle!
After a night of dancing with family and friends, they were met with a bubble exit! Marissa and Brett, thank you for serving our country. Thank you for putting your life on the line for ours. Thank you for trusting us to be a part of your wedding! We can’t wait to see what the future has in store for you both! Enjoy a few of my favorites from their day! xo
The Creative Team
Photography: Amanda Cromer Photography
Venue: The Windmill Winery – Lake House
Venue Coordinator: Lisa
Caterer: Elina’s Catering
DJ/MC: Elegant Entertainment
Florist: Bloominous
Baker: Lesleys Creative Cakes
Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal Collection
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