Backyard CT Wedding | Wesley + Thaler - wedding photographer in CT

{Backyard CT Wedding 09.09.2017}

I started this blog by highlighting all the amazing personal details that made Wesley + Thaler’s backyard wedding so special. Because of their incredible thoughtfulness and effort, they transformed Thaler’s grandparents’ waterfront property into an absolute woodland fairytale. But what really stood out to me wasn’t just the stunning décor or the handcrafted touches — it was how much they valued the people around them. To them, the day was about throwing the biggest, most epic dinner party for the people closest to their hearts.

Meaning behind the details…

I don’t say this lightly, especially when I think about the driftwood arch Thaler made by hand. That arch wasn’t just a “thing” — it meant the world to Wes because Thaler brought her vision to life with his own two hands. But what they were truly excited about wasn’t the arch itself, but the people watching them marry underneath it.

Wes’s family lives far away, split between Brazil and California. Having them walk down the aisle and sit front row gave her that gorgeous smile she wore all day. On the other hand, Thaler’s family lives just next door. Wes describes being a part of Thaler’s family as “living inside of a cozy down comforter.” Honestly, that’s the best description I’ve ever heard about feeling at home with family.

The ceremony also took place in front of a stone wall that holds deep meaning. Thaler helped his grandfather build it, and it’s where the cousins gather every year for photos. That wall represents family tradition, hard work, and legacy. Thaler said the best gift he’s ever received is “the gift of my trade from my father,” referring to their family business, Hefel Masonry. But he also treasures “my mom’s intuition, my sister, and Wesley’s never-ending waterfall of love.” You can see why “things” aren’t what matter most to these two.

How they knew they were meant to be…

Wes + Thaler knew pretty early on that they were meant for each other. Wes felt it on their first date — no turning back, no other option. But it was Thaler who wins the “who knew first” debate (not that they’re ever competitive). He says he knew from their very first encounter.

Of course, Wes is gorgeous, but it was more than looks. After an hour talking at the bar where Wes worked, Thaler recognized her huge heart. They bonded over family, values, and a love of travel and adventure.

Both left the country after their first meeting, but Thaler remembered when Wes would be back and set up their first date. That date was magical, and even though they were practically strangers, Wes let Thaler step into the role of healer and provider, especially after she’d recently lost her mom. For someone fiercely independent who kept her heart guarded, letting him in was a huge deal. Now, they walk through life leaning on each other every step of the way.

Man, I could go on about this couple forever!

They could definitely write a book about their story — it would do way more justice than I can. I can’t wait to see the global treasure hunt Thaler wants to plan or hear about when Wes finally visits Thaler’s family in Austria to relive childhood memories. I’m excited for the success they’ll both achieve — in Thaler’s masonry business and Wes’s personal training business, WESFIT Training (she totally works out, in case you couldn’t tell!).