It was Fleet Week in New York City. Julie and her best friend Karen were there on a vacation and decided to join in on the celebration. For those of you who are unaware, Fleet Week is a annual celebration of the sea services (Sailors, Marines & Coast Guardsmen). Annually, this week of festivities has occurred for the past 28 years and is much anticipated by those who participate. Clayton was there in New York partaking in the events when he stumbled upon Julie.  That day, Karen and Julie hung out with Clayton and a bunch of his friends.  Somehow during that time, the romance between Clayton and Julie began.

After meeting in New York City, the pair started finding more ways to see each other. At the time, Julie was in vet school at the University of Illinois.  Despite the challenges of starting a relationship long distance, Clayton and Julie made it work.  Their love only grew with time apart and soon it was clear they were meant to be. Clayton proposed at his home in Georgia.  Sweet and simple is how Julie described his proposal, although there was a spectacular firework show involved.

Clayton and Julie’s had a Polen Farm Fall Wedding.  Polen Farm is a historic venue located near Dayton, Ohio.  It is an absolutely beautiful property.  The groomsmen and bridesmaids were able to get ready in the old home located near the ceremony location.  Their ceremony was held in a gazebo outside that was garnished with fall mums, pumpkins and cute chalked signs of the wedding verse, 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8.  Julie’s mother walked her down the aisle and led her to her soon to be husband and life partner. The little flower girl and ring bearers took their jobs very seriously as they paraded down the aisle.  The minister talked of love and marriage and what it meant to be united as one.  Clayton kissed his bride and they walked hand and hand down the aisle.

Upstairs in the gorgeous barn, the wedding festivities continued.  Guests enjoyed Wisconsin cheese and happy hour while Clayton and Julie snuck away for photos.  Clayton beamed at Julie and couldn’t help but kiss her throughout their pictures. This pair was destined to be together.  These two, who began as strangers hanging out in New York City and are now husband and wife.  They enjoyed the rest of their wedding day by partaking in wedding traditions that included a first dance, cake cutting and hearing speeches from those closest to them.  Clayton and Julie’s wedding was beautiful and I am so happy that they included me in their celebrations.

To see more of Clayton and Julie, check out their engagement photos.

VENDORS-