Kara & Justin

Kara and Justin met their first semester at college and have been together for a decade. More than once during their Twin Cities wedding day did I hear a friend or relative say, “It’s about time.” But I think the anticipation of the day made it even more special.

They were married at The Church of St. Mary in Shakopee, a gorgeous 1865 church seeped in history.

Justin was so sweetly nervous to marry this amazing woman. Here he is getting some advice from friends before she arrived.

Kara did not want Justin to see her until she was walking down the aisle, and despite the close quarters at the church everyone went to great lengths to make sure it happened.

The priest insisted Kara and Justin memorize their vows, which didn’t really seem to put Justin at ease.

One of the bridal shots before the ceremony. Isn’t she gorgeous?

Her gown was stunning, too.

Just thinking about her dad before the ceremony brought Kara to tears. When I saw those church doors swing open and the sunlight stream in just as they entered, I got a little choked up, too. Dads will do that to me every time.

Likely some of the cutest ring bearers, flower girl and junior bridesmaid ever. Here they are, letting loose before the bridal party arrived at the reception:

The reception was at the Shakopee Ballroom, which is unassuming from the outside but really has an amazing dancefloor. The seating horseshoes all the way around it, so there isn’t a bad seat in the house. The happy couple during their first dance:

Kara and Justin had such strong, fun and supportive group of friends who were there for them throughout their relationship and on their wedding day. They even ended their bridal party dance with a group hug — with the little ones trying to stake out a spot on the outside.

Congratulations, Kara and Justin — clearly it was worth the wait!