They first walked down the aisle together 15 years ago.  Not becoming husband and wife but as bridesmaid and groomsman next to Mel’s sister Valerie and her husband DJ.     They smiled at each other and were cordial but only became friends nothing more.  There was a photo in the entry way area of that day…what a great reminder of how far they had come.  
Fast forward and here they are.  Colin, still a police officer and Mel, a project manager for Westcott homes and her daughter grown…they began to officially date.  A few years went by and Colin realized he just could not live without her.  Yes, they have been in each other’s lives for quite sometime however it was different now.  Sande, his groomswoman and partner shared during one of the toasts how Mel definitely makes Colin a better version of himself.  Colin grinned and knows that it is the truth. 
It was a few days prior to Christmas in 2014.  Mel had had an awful day as she flopped down on her bed, exhausted, Colin sauntered in and slipped a box into her hand.  It was then he popped the question ‘Will you marry me?'.  Definitely in shock and thinking 'OMG!'....she emphatically said ‘YES’.  Wedding planning started and their friends and family would agree they are the best thing that has ever happened to each other. 
They decided to tie the knot at the Monte Cristo Ballroom in Everett.  It’s an awesome venue that has rooms for both parties to get ready in and I love the juxtaposition of the indoor class with the outdoor industrial areas.  As the guys got ready Colin’s sense of humor really came out.  I had kind of pegged him for being rather serious but nope,  I think he just has a cop demeanor with a cool sense of humor you just have to allow to shine!   (Even if it means embarrassing selfies while I am pinning on his corsage).
Mel got ready with her daughter, sister and best friend along with her 3 nieces.  Salon Maison did a wonderful job on the hair and makeup.  Her youngest niece Halle was eager to help Aunt Mel’s Bagley Mischka heels and she loved the sparkles.  I must agree the shoes were gorgeous and worth it….even if Colin isn’t sure!!!

    
We ventured outside as it was an incredible gorgeous sunny day.  The sun rays were warm and as they approached each other for their first look, they were both emotional and excited to see each other.  I know Colin even shed a tear but was hesitant to let me catch it on film.  We proceeded with photos doing our best to keep everyone laughing and moving along.  I love when there is time to take in a couple of the areas around the venue to provide some variety to their portfolio.  A back alley and a brick wall never hurt!

Guests were arriving and the ceremony was about to start.  Mel’s daughter, Morgan walked her down the aisle.   They exchanged their rings and immediately sealed it with a kiss.  I love that Brooks (my second shooter) was able to be on the balcony to catch their exit and have a different vantage point! 

As cocktail hour began guests enjoyed the delicious food that the Monte Cristo’s menu provides.  Mingling around the photobooth and seeing the display of photos around the venue of Mel and Colin’s adventures together was definitely a highlight.  As well as the cocktails ;)
After dinner cake cutting and toasts began but not before we were able to slip out for a few sunset photos.  Time was limited so finding a rooftop was not an option however improvising is key and getting a few at the golden hour was sweet!    

With toasts from the maid of honor,  best man and grooms-woman (and partner at the police dept.) I learned a lot about this couple.  Mainly how much they love adventure and each other.  They make each  other smile and they have an ability to be tender that  comes across in all that they say and do. 
What I didn’t learn from the speeches the Origami Fortune Teller, as part of the décor on the tables, was able to add.   Like Colin preferring Coke over Pepsi and Mel possibly having less shoes than Colin.  Tid bits of info that tell you a few fun facts about the couple – what a fun idea! 
They moved into the ballroom for their first dance and invited other couples to join part way in.  They were ready to socialize and celebrate with everyone who came.   You can tell when people love and admire a couple…they want to hang around and just ‘BE’ with them.  They have a ton of love and support and now as Mr. & Mrs. Davies, they couldn’t be happier.
Much love and all the best….

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Venue::  Monte Cristo Ballroom 
Caterer & Coordinator:: Monte Cristo
Florist::  Flora D’Amore  Chelsea Dudder-Cox
Cake Artist::  The Cakewalk Shop
DJ::  Monte Cristo
Hair & Makeup:: Salon Maison
Wedding Gown::  LaineeMeg Bridal
Shoes:: Badgley Mischka
Bridesmaids Gowns::  Romashka
Suits::  Men’s Wearhouse
Officiant:: Patrick Hamman
Photography:: Arlene Chambers Photography
Second Photographer:: Brooks Scribner Photography