It couldn’t have been a more perfect Friday afternoon, reminding me how much I love New England summers. There was a nice breeze, sun was out and ready to set, at Sabin Point Park. Ethan and Kendra took some time together with me before the eventful wedding celebration, here in RI.
Ethan moved to Arizona a few years ago to pursue his Master’s Degree. He is a dear friend of mine, one I enjoyed having over every week for bible study. It was just a an ordinary day at a friend from church’s  get together where Kendra happened to be there too. They ending up talking that evening and the rest is history! I always new Ethan was going to find his wife out there.😉

This was actually my first time meeting Kendra, but she is genuinely such a nice woman. She is beautiful, soft spoken, but has a quiet confidence. I loved how she embraced Ethan’s Liberian culture and had the opportunity to come out here, to RI, where he is from. I know all of his close friends and family loved meeting her or getting to know her even more! They both are such a light and it exudes out of them. They are a great example of what it looks like to have Jesus at the center of your relationship.

Look at those smiles!!

There was so many laughs, we had too much fun!

Such a good looking couple!

Kendra… you are too beautiful!

Such a genuine, sweet essence just exudes out of her!

I love how sweet he is towards her, his queen.

We had a great time at the park, but it was now time for the celebration!

Loved their white and gold colors of royalty.

Kendra’s father, brother, and Ethan’s sister made a grand entrance, dancing their way into the reception!

And now, Mr. and Mrs. Ethan Gaye!!!!

Their first, well “second,” dance!

I love their love! Always smiling together.

They had such an upbeat and fun father-daughter dance. It was sooooo cute!

Ethan and his mother are beyond adorable!!! This was definitely one of my favorite parts.

Special prayer before dinner.

There were many speeches through out the evening, and Kendra’s father’s speech was a very  special one.

I loved watching her reaction as he was talking.

Stanley was Ethan’s best man, they have been friends since they were little kids. They have been through so much together and have remained best friends continuously! Loved hearing him reiterate again how he “released” his best friend, Ethan to Kendra. Super sweet.

Ethan’s sister sharing heart felt words, even though she really is like a second mother to him.

Ethan’s mom shared very passionately about how much God has blessed their family and has been so faithful to them. If it wasn’t for God, they wouldn’t be where they are today. It was a very powerful time of praise and thanksgiving.

They received some wedding advice from some couples who have been married the longest!

And a special prayer was given over their family.

Now, time for the cake!!

They are too cute!

Time for the  fun, where the traditional Liberian custom of the Bride and Groom is to dance and be sprayed with money!!! So much fun!

🎼”Chop my money, chop my money.” 😂

Then everyone got in a big line for the ‘Grand March!’ I loved watching everyone come together, celebrating their love and marriage.

They led the way!

I know how grateful and blessed his family felt to have put on such an amazing evening. God has been so faithful to them!

 Ethan and Kendra each shared a few words of how grateful they were for everyone who came and supported their marriage. They were so thankful and full of joy.

Special thank you to her father who traveled from Arizona to be there!

Ethan and Kendra, thank you so much for letting me be apart of your beautiful marriage! It is evident the pure love you both have for one another. Ethan, thank you for being such a great friend and brother in Christ over the years. Jeremy and I always know that you are there and praying from a far. It means so much to us to have you in our lives. Kendra, thank you for being such an amazing woman, genuinely loving Ethan and helping him draw closer to God. I still remember when we were praying for you! This day was such a beautiful testament of God’s faithfulness. I love you both! Just know I am only a phone call away!!!

Much Joy,

Charity HOPE