In some ways, I like a wedding rehearsal dinner better than reception. It’s usually smaller, more intimate, and only encompasses the closest friends and family of the bride and groom. Distant friends, acquaintances, and wedding crashers aren’t allowed, resulting in deeper conversations and a more palpable sense of joy.

At my first meeting with Amalee and Todd, they told me how their families were close and how they practically grew up together hunting, fishing, and working on their trucks. It’s one thing to hear about family bonds, but its another altogether to actually experience it firsthand.

When I first arrived at the Lowake Steakhouse (I have it on good authority this is the best steak for miles, they’ve been open since 1951), I realized I should feel a little out of place with my subcompact car surrounded by diesel trucks. But maybe it was the friendliness of their family, or maybe they put something in the steak, regardless I was immediately greeted warmly, and regaled with tales of Amalee and Todd as children. Three glasses of sweet tea and one Ribeye later, I felt felt like I was a part of the family.

If there’s one thing I’m thankful for Amalee and Todd reminding me of, its that weddings are not only a joining of two people, but of two families. And in their case, they are some of the nicest families I’ve ever met.

Filmed with the Sony FS100, FS700, and Canon 7D.

**And because all of you keep asking, this is the last wedding film I didn’t shoot with an A7Sii. Every wedding film from here on is filmed with the A7Sii. 🙂

Thanks so much for watching. Interested in having me film your wedding? Get in touch!