Mary Queen of Peace Church, Benedict’s Plantation Wedding: Gretchen + Dustin

Venue + Catering: Benedicts Plantation

Cake: Zoe’s Bakery

Gown: Pearl’s

Bride’s Hair + Makeup: Ginnette Mendez

Music: Glenn Rainey + Lindsey Piattoly; Reception: Countdown Sound

Church: Mary Queen of Peace

Officiant: Father Harold Imamshah

If you don’t remember Gretchen and Dustin from their engagements, then let me remind you as I was reminded this past Saturday.

They are genuine and selflessly in love. Dustin’s thoughts revolve around Gretchen’s needs and their efforts to make life easy for the other is admirable. They’ve had their fare share of hardships, but no matter when or what the circumstance, they push ahead….together.

They hold each others’ hands and they trust. They trust in their love and they trust in each other for comfort and for guidance. Their wedding was special, and full of tears. It was romantic, relaxed, and sophisticated. And it revolved around their love for one another, their love for their families, and their cultural traditions.

Every detail was thought out. Gretchen spent plenty of time shopping on Etsy for the perfect clips, cake toppers, and more…and what came of it was a beautiful and love-filled wedding that I am thankful to have captured.

I would also like to send a special thanks to Gretchen’s sister Sharman for allowing me to shoot the details just how I wanted inside of her gorgeous home.

Gretchen’s gown suited her perfectly….the simplicity of the gown was elegant yet detailed in a way that drew attention to her!

Gretchen’s sister and maid of honor, Ginnette, was there every part of the day and always helping Gretchen.

It was really sweet to see everyone laughing and enjoying this moment. Her mom was full of smiles and her grandmother took almost as many pictures as I did! 🙂

And when she put on her veil….everyone stood back and let the tears fall.

After Dustin + Gretchen’s First Look, which if you haven’t seen yet, you should check out HERE, we were able to take all group photos before the ceremony! 🙂

Look at her!!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂

The ceremony took place at Mary Queen of Peace, a beautiful church! I loooovvveeedd the architecture.

Ohhhh Dustin….lol. He’s such the character.

And as Gretchen walked into the church, all eyes were on her….especially Dustin’s.

So peaceful.

As the priest began the ceremony, he reminded them of what their names meant. He told Gretchen to remember that “Dustin” means that he is strong of heart and………a BOLT OF LIGHTENING.

And when Dustin busted out with a giant stack of napkins….I laughed so hard. No one could see his face but me so anyone looking at me probably thought I was crazy.

But shortly after, I realized that he was smart. And that he knew both Gretchen and himself oh too well. Neither of them could make it through the vows.

Everyone, including me, got a kick of out those two and their napkin sharing…

So sincere….

….and so loved.

After the vows were said, and they shared their Spanish Lasso, Dustin put his hand up to the guests and kissed his bride! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Dauzat.

The reception at Benedict’s Plantation revolved around Dustin and Gretchen’s favorite season: Winter. The ice blue, black, and silver decor spread throughout the venue in everything from their cake to their snowflake wine stopper favors.

One of their favorite wedding purchases was this cake topper. It was customized just for them! 🙂

Gretchen’s mom made the announcement for them to start their first dance and they did….as husband and wife.

After 5 years, they are STILL SO in love.

Not your typical cake cutting……

And Ginnette took it upon herself to give a toast to the bride and groom. She talked to them about how when she and Gretchen were growing up they used to play house. And how Ginnette was always the husband and Gretchen the wife. So….she gave Dustin a few tips. 🙂 She loves her sister and told Dustin that Gretchen couldn’t have chosen a better husband to “take her place.” It was such a cute speach, and SO hearfelt.

There was LOOOTTTSSS of dancing….even some Salsa (which I participated in). 🙂 🙂

And a tradition for the Dauzat family is to have the women line up and sing “Going to the Chapel.” It was crazy!!!! And such a cute idea!!

As the night was ending, Gretchen and Dustin were still going strong, living it up….just as they wanted!

Gretchen + Dustin,

When it was time for me to leave, I didn’t want to. Instead, we all danced, and I continued to enjoy your company. Because you guys have such a way of making others feel welcome and comfortable. Your wedding was beautiful, and your traditions are so heartfelt and unique. Every moment of the day was sincere and I appreciate that you are so both unafraid to wear your hearts and your sleeves. You guys are amazing. God definitely knew what he was doing when he brought you two together.

Throughout life, we all know that there will be both good times and bad, but it’s special to know that you have each other to lean on. 🙂 I hope you are having a wonderful and safe trip in Costa Rica!

Catherine