24 years ago, Baby Melanie was born, to my babysitter. 🙂 Talk about a long time ago and talk about how time has changed us all! Now, Baby Melanie is Mrs. Melanie! She and Shane tied the knot this past August 9th at their Alma Mater — Notre Dame! Yes, folks, that means *I* got the opportunity to photograph a wedding IN the Basilica at Notre Dame! Go me!

But since this isn’t about me … I have a tremendous series of images here for your viewing pleasure … a very very very short synopsis of our many hours of photography …

The bride had her hair done right across the street from our hotel … and walked back with her Mom and Dad. I found this walk quite touching.

She finished getting ready at the hotel with her Mom and Dad.

A walk down a LONG aisle and she met her husband to be … and married him!

After the ceremony, the couple — and their entire party — moved to the Grotto for a very personal, special prayer.

We didn’t have a whole lotta time after the ceremony to complete formals, so we had to move them outside. Not a problem at all! And yes, the bride and groom ARE in this shot. 😉 It was something they wanted, so we happily obliged. 🙂

See? There they are!

The kids though, needed a water break. 🙂

Moving on to the party — aka reception — at Tippacanoe Place. Talk about an old stately mansion with character beyond belief!

Inside …

And out …

I promise … despite her intent and attempts … she did not actually get into the keg. 😉

The toasts were teary … very very teary … from both big sisters of the bride … and groom.

The cake was as beautiful as any of the decorations! It was a decoration!

All the activities were sweet and wonderful and represented this couple to a T! Our GREATEST of congratulations goes to them!