Wedding Date: July 13th 2023

The Brocker family has been a chosen family for Janelle and I for many years and even decades. Janelle used to work for the Brocker’s and was always invited to join their family bowling nights where everyone was encouraged to dress up in any way you wish. She distinctly remembers Danielle dressing in head to toe rainbows, glitter, and sparkle each and every time bringing some extra light and fun to the dimly lit bowling alley. But that’s who Danni is, she’s always had that extra sparkle. We’ve already photographed 5 Brocker weddings and each one has been so unique and special. I often thought what Danni’s day would look like when it was her turn. I knew it would be pink, whimsical, inclusive, over the top, and filled with love. But the big question was who would pair with this shining star? Then in stepped Tyler. He is kind, steady, adventurous, and the perfect fit for Danni.

For this dreamy wedding they knew they needed an equally dreamy location. I suggested the Edward Anne Estate at Bavaria Downs for a fairytale cottage feel that was big enough for this large crew. When I arrived the morning of their wedding the first thing I noticed was just how perfectly these two families fit together. They were talking like old friends and laughing as though they’ve known each other forever. It made me smile knowing that these two lovely souls had found each other and so had their families. Then I saw Danni beaming from across the room looking like a perfect Disney princess complete with the most fabulous shoes I’ve ever seen.

Tyler and I walked out to the fountain for their first look while the sun shone down on these two lovebirds. They laughed and talked while wearing huge loving smiles knowing the day was now complete since they were finally together. He gave her a few grandiose twirls before everyone began getting ready for the ceremony. Watching all the guests fill the seats was like a family reunion for me. I hugged familiar faces and was overjoyed to meet all of the babies! Seeing past wedding couples become parents is such a special moment and I loved seeing how this loving family continues to grow. The ceremony highlighted their faith and love for one another and I got goosebumps when the families gathered around the couple for a final prayer. Then they were pronounced husband and wife and happily danced down the aisle in a shower of rose petals.

As the party moved toward the reception hall, we grabbed the wedding party and explored the grounds a bit. The estate felt more like a castle and you know what they say, every princess needs her castle, so this day couldn’t have come together any better. As the sun began to set, we ran through the tall grass with Danni twirling and the pair's laughter carrying in the warm summer air. When we finally entered the hall, cheers erupted for the newly married couple. The room warmed with love as we listened to stories and relived memories. Danni’s father said that Tyler reminded him of his own father and everyone in the room welled up a bit. But there was no time for tears because the dance was about to begin and this is what everyone had been waiting for! After a sweet first dance and parent dances the Brocker children hit the dance floor and showed off their signature dance moves to the cheering crowd. Danni’s dress was made for twirling and this was definitely her moment as she spun on the dance floor into Tyler’s arms. Everyone was cheering on their feet and the energy was electric!

We snuck out of the party for one last twirl next to the iconic fountain to create a quiet moment of their own. It felt like the stars fell down around them and as the music echoed from inside, they even had a perfect Disney soundtrack to match the perfect moment. Then the guests poured outside and cheered on the happy pair as they climbed into their getaway car and drove off into the night while the party continued to fill the night air with joyous noise.

Vendors: Bavaria Downs (venue), Bellagala (florist and decor), D'Amico (catering), Guy Wagner (videographer), Martin Thornburg (dress designer), Raffine Bridal (dress boutique), Men's Wearhouse (suit), Warpaint (hair and makeup), Steve Ly (dj and lighting)