After having been engaged for three years, Blake and Chelsea became husband and wife, as they were surrounded by family and friends at Vizcaya in Sacramento-during a beautiful early morning ceremony.
Chelsea was getting ready in the charming bridal suite as she was surrounded by her mother, Rene, Maid of Honor, Tammy and bridesmaid, Dannin. Just downstairs, Best Man (aka brother) Kyle, and groomsman, Phil, were keeping Blake calm and entertaining him as he was getting ready for a first look with his bride-to-be.
The small veranda in front of the waterfall at Vizcaya made for a perfect place for Chelsea and Blake to share a first look. With Blake standing to face the waterfall, Chelsea quietly made her way up the steps toward him. Once within reach, she extended her hand and gently tapped him. He was definitely ready to turn around, and when he did, looked so pleased that he had chosen this beautiful woman to be his bride. Chelsea looked equally pleased as they talked quietly and doted on each others look.
As they shared a few minutes to themselves, the nerves visibly melted away and it became obvious that these two are meant to be-as they both restored each other's comfort and looked like the only two people in the world at that very moment in time.
Since the two had seen each other, and they were no longer nervous, we took a few minutes to get some fun photos of the bridal party altogether!
With the final guests taking their seats, it was time for the ceremony.
Blake was positioned beneath the flower adorned arch, as one by one, the bridal party made their way toward him to join him. Eventually, the moment that everyone was awaiting had come, and Chelsea appeared, escorted by her father, Steve. As he led her down the aisle, there were smiles and excitement throughout the audience!
Blake and Chelsea shared their vows, exchanged rings, and proclaimed their love for each other as they each said "I do" and promised to love and take care of each other until the end of time. As Blake kissed his bride, they turned to cheers and celebration, blushing with excitement at what had just taken place!
After the ceremony, and photos with family, the newlyweds were able to steal a quiet moment alone, to view and enjoy the gorgeous reception room.
Eventually, guests were allowed in, and the guests of honor were introduced as Mr. and Mrs. Saukko for the very first time!
Delicious food was served, followed by toasts.
Chelsea's dad, Steve, had a memorable toast as he recalled how relieved he was to meet Blake and realize that out of any prior prospects, he really liked this guy and was willing to give the thumbs up. He laughed as he said he was even more thankful and relieved when he realized that Chelsea really liked this guy and gave the thumbs up too!
Perhaps the most touching moment came from Blake's dad, Andy, as he too toasted the couple. As Blake and Chelsea had been planning the wedding months before, they weren't sure if Andy would be in good enough health to attend the wedding. Happily, here we was on their wedding day-and he admitted that he could not have been happier or in better spirits than he was at that moment, and for that matter, the entire day!
Following the toasts, there was an abundance of delicious treats and plenty of dancing to be danced!
The newly married couple danced their way around the ballroom floor as guests looked on. Chelsea's dad then entered the dance floor to share a dance with his newly married daughter. As they finished, the floor filled up, and everybody had a wonderful time in celebration!
With everything winding down, guests began to gather at the doorway with adorable small flower petals in anticipation of sending off the couple with well wishes.
Blake and Chelsea ran through the exit to hear the last cheers and excitement for their wedding day as they were whisked into a car and on their way to bask in the excitement of the morning, and on to their next adventure!
Congratulations to such a beautiful couple!!!! It was truly a pleasure to capture their special day so that they may remember their bond for the rest of their lives! If they go through life with even half of the charm, modesty, love and romance that we witnessed on that day, they will definitely have a splendid life as husband and wife!
