Kyle and Carly were friends long before they were boyfriend and girlfriend. They had spent time together with mutual friends, and after each had relationships that didn't work out, they were there for each other as friends, and confidants, who eventually fell in love.
Friends and family were thrilled when the news came that the two were engaged, and they began planning for a beautiful wedding day that would be rooted in love as well as a strong relationship with God.
As Carly began readying herself at Bluestone Meadows in Placerville, her sister, mom and cousin were there to keep the nerves away. As she put on the perfect dress she had previously 'said yes' to at David's Bridal, her three adorable little girls were just arriving to see mom transform into a gorgeous bride.
Soon after, Kyle arrived-and as Carly made her grand entrance, he viewed his bride for the first time! He couldn't hold back the emotion and tears, as he looked like the happiest man in the world to be marrying his truest friend and love of his life.
With nerves out of the way, we had a blast taking photos with the bridal party! Turns out, Kyle and Carly are both twins! With Carly's twin at her side as her Maid of Honor, and Kyle with his twin as his groomsman, it was fun to see the similarities and bond that they all shared as only twins can. They were also joined by her cousin, and his other brother, and there was so much excitement for the ceremony.
Carly's daughters and niece were perfectly pretty in their flower girl dresses, and their nephew was there to bring the ring. They couldn't have chosen a better group of people to surround themselves with for their special day.
As 5:30 approached, guests had filled the seats and were giggling and chattering with excitement as they awaited the ceremony procession. People were in awe as Carly approached in an antique Ford, whereupon she arrived and followed her girls down the aisle as they scattered petals before her. It was like something of a fairtytale…
Kyle was overcome with emotion as he awaited his bride at the arch at the end of the aisle.
As if the day had not already been perfect and emotion-filled throughout, their ceremony included much more! They exchanged vows, tied a three-cord unity braid, and took communion as they invited God into their marriage.
"Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." - Ecclesiastes 4:12
One of the sweetest moments was when Kyle dedicated vows and necklaces to each of the girls, promising to be their daddy forever, and loving them through all the years.
They were pronounced husband and wife, and they shared a kiss to seal the deal! They were met with applause and cheers as they were introduced as Mr. and Mrs. Brannam for the first time ever!
As the newlyweds were taking time to take some gorgeous photos in the beautiful golden light, we took a moment to allow them to have a deep breath and really take in the surreality of the day. As the sun was setting, they talked amongst themselves and looked to be the only two people in the world...sharing in the sunset-which would become the first sunset of many as husband and wife...
They entered the reception just in time to share in a delicious family style meal. Following dinner was toasts, and again, it was clear to see just how loved these two people truly are. The testimony that was shared by Carly's sister Brooke was touching and filled with sentiment, as she reflected on their childhood and praised Kyle for being somebody that she knew she could count on for her sister and her nieces.
Kyle's Best Man Jake also shared touching sentiment as he explained that he was surprised and honored when Kyle had selected him to be the Best Man since he was not his twin. He called himself 'the other brother' and said he had always felt a bit 'left out of the club' and like a third wheel, but was truly touched and ecstatic when Kyle selected him. It was heartfelt when Kyle explained that it was never like that at all, and Jake would always hold just as special a place in his heart as his twin does.
And then there was Carly's brother Austin, and his wife, Jessica. Try as they might, the bride and groom couldn't hold back tears, and Jessica struggled to get through the words as she expressed her deep love for the two and the fondness she held for each individually.
This couple is definitely well-loved-and everybody toasted to that!
Cake cutting, a bouquet toss, and garter throw followed...
As the night was beginning to come to an end, the dance floor was begging to be opened!
This was perhaps one of the most unique and unselfish moments we have witnessed. Kyle and Carly shared in their first dance very briefly, and then the DJ announced that they wanted to share this first dance with all of the married couples. Happy unions filled the floor, and it was beautiful to see just how many happy couples were in attendance and will serve as wonderful examples to the newlyweds.
Again, during the Father/Daughter dance, the floor was open to all that fit the description, and Kyle danced with his adorable daughters amongst a crowd of others.
Finally, during the Mother/Son dance, unselfishly-the floor was shared by all mothers and sons. Definitely a touching moment for all-especially one of Carly's friends who had traveled some distance to be at the wedding and had her newborn son, only days old-with whom she shared this dance.
We truly enjoyed The Brannam's wedding day! It was a fun-filled, emotional, and exciting day. From the moment we arrived, to the moment we left, we felt the happiness and excitement from Kyle and Carly, and the joy that everybody held for them. We wish them all of the happiness in the world as they continue to embark on new adventures, and lest they remember:
"Be completely humble and gentle; Be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace."- Ephesians 4:2-3
“Marriage is sharing your life with your best friend, enjoying the journey along the way, and arriving at every destination together.” – Fawn Weaver.
