the spa at norwich inn wedding ct destination photographer

{The Spa at Norwich Inn 06.24.18}

Jackie + Dave were married at The Spa at Norwich Inn on June 24th, and honestly, I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house. Not from crying — from laughing. From the second I walked into the bridal suite, I knew this was going to be one of those weddings. The kind where your cheeks hurt from smiling before the ceremony even starts.

These two are absolutely hilarious — and more importantly, they’re completely and unapologetically themselves. Jackie gave her bridesmaids “The Rock” candles (yes, that Rock), and Dave had a first look reaction that deserves its own Oscar. (Scroll down — seriously, you need to see his face!) The ceremony? Basically a roast, courtesy of their officiant-slash-bridesmaid-slash-cousin Kathryn. Add in toasts involving duct tape and dance floor chaos, and this day was everything.

But underneath all the humor is something really tender.

High school sweethearts!

Jackie and Dave met back in high school. From the beginning, Dave loved how much she made him laugh. After a short break before college, it was good ol’ social media that brought them back together (classic). Jackie admits she may have done a little Facebook stalking. Dave? He says he never stopped thinking about her.

And just when you think this story can’t get sweeter, here’s the moment that sealed the deal for him: Dave saw Jackie holding his best friend’s newborn daughter — and he just knew. That was the moment he realized they were going to build a family together someday. (I KNOW. Cue the collective “awww.”)

The “simbawich” proposal (yes, really)!

Dave planned a romantic hiking trip for the proposal, but wasn’t totally sure when the right moment would strike. As fate would have it, it was right when Jackie held her sandwich above her head like Simba from The Lion King.

I’m not even kidding. Picture it: she’s cracking up, sandwich held high, and Dave drops to one knee. She didn’t even put the sandwich down before saying yes. And now, the infamous Simbawich lives forever in their proposal photos — thanks to her sister screaming, “PUT THE SANDWICH DOWN!!”

Honestly? Iconic behavior.

A day full of laughs, dancing and so much love!

After a year and a half of planning, Jackie and Dave finally got to celebrate their love surrounded by all their favorite people. And while the day was packed with fun and laughter, there were also so many tender, emotional moments.

The way Dave looked at Jackie during the ceremony? Pure adoration. And Jackie absolutely glowed the entire day. She told me she was most excited about the dancing — and let me tell you, this crew did not disappoint. The dance floor was full all night long, with kids, cousins, uncles, everyone just vibing and celebrating.

I’m still not over how sweet it all was.

Jackie + Dave — thank you for letting me capture such a joyful, beautiful, authentically you wedding day. Your love is radiant and your humor is next level. I’ll never forget the Simbawich, the candle gifts, or your epic dance party. Here’s to a lifetime of laughter, love, and probably more sandwiches.