06 Jul lisa + neal: joined. a memphis tpc southwind wedding.

They waited half a century for each other. Literally. Neither have ever been married before now. Both were waiting for their perfect match. Then one day, a church committee brought them together, and they knew the wait was over.

Six months after they began dating, Lisa was diagnosed with colon cancer. A lot of their time suddenly became consumed with doctors, hospitals, and various treatments. Neal stuck to Lisa’s side through it all. Two years later, Lisa is cancer free, and knows she could not have done it without Neal.

Lisa and Neal began their life together, finally, on a beautiful day at TPC Southwind. Though they both live in Illinois, they brought friends, family, and church officials all they way to Memphis to join hands, hearts, and lives together in marriage.

Lisa’s 5 sisters helped her prepare for her big day.

While Neal waited patiently to see the love of his life.

I so wanted to take this ring bearer home with me!

Most wedding ceremonies are very similar. But once in awhile, one stands out. This was one. It was one of the most emotional ceremonies I have had the pleasure of witnessing.

Neal could not contain his emotions as he walked to the altar.

But once he saw his bride, he was all smiles.

Ed captured this beautiful photo of Lisa gazing at Neal.

There were plenty of tears, but just as much laughter.

The blessing of the rings.

The moment everyone was waiting for – married!

We then stole outside for a few portraits of the new man and wife.

One of my favorites…. Lisa truly knows how to bring out the best in the otherwise quiet and shy Neal.

I have never seen a couple so happy to be married. Ed’s photo on the left.

Happy, happy, happy!

Lisa, you are beautiful. Inside and out.

Love Ed’s shot on the right, golf carts and all.

Andria Lewis and crew did an amazing job decorating for the reception. Lisa’s family baked an entire table full of delectable treats for guests to take home. Wedding cake and dessert? Yes, please!

Toasts are always my favorite. You can learn so much about a couple through what others say about them! Just like their ceremony, Lisa’s and Neal’s toasts were full of laughter….

Tears…

And lots of love for family.

And at the end of the day, Lisa and Neal got to leave as husband and wife.

Lisa and Neal, thankyouthankyouthankyou! For being you. For loving like you do. And for giving us the honor of getting to know you. I don’t cry at many weddings. Yours was truly special.

Here’s to waiting. And then waiting some more. And beating cancer. Together. Cheers!