Rachel and Shane wanted their vows to be just theirs. Fully private, no audience, no interruptions. Caitlin and I stood guard at the bottom of the stairs, and I loved every second of being the ones who got to protect that moment.

It makes sense. When I asked what they were most looking forward to on their wedding day, they put private vows first.

Earlier that day, Rachel did her first look with all of her siblings, brothers and sisters together. They looked at her with so much tenderness and love, and it set the tone for the whole day.

Rachel also brought the very first flower Shane ever gave her as part of her details. She dried it and kept it all this time. It’s one of my favorite little touches from the whole day.

They described their wedding as fun, joyous, and effervescent. That’s exactly how it felt.

Rachel and Shane, thank you for trusting me with a day this personal, and for letting us stand guard at the bottom of the stairs. I hope these photos take you right back to all those beautiful moments.

Here is a peek at everything we captured!