Heather Ryan Photography: Lutherville-Timonium, MD Wedding at Cloisters Castle

Jillian (JJ) & Jozue’s wedding day was nothing short of spectacular. They were married on Saturday at St. Joseph Odenton Catholic Church and celebrated with a fairy tale reception at Cloister’s Castle. With 15 days of straight rain - a record in DMV area - the rain stopped just in time for JJ to leave for the church through the end of their reception. That's pretty remarkable if you ask me.

I have known JJ since we were young teens in high school. Athletic, adventurous, outgoing, fun, and compassionate - she’s one of those marvelous people that others gravitate toward. Me being someone who suffers from a constant state of wanderlust, I envy her travel and adventures. Zip lining in the Panamanian ran forest, exploring street markets in Suzhou, China, volunteering with the Global Medical Brigades, volcano surfing in Nicaragua... to name a few... JJ is a world explorer and she has found her travel partner for life! JJ and Jozue recently visited her home of Panama where she enjoyed being tour guide to her soon-to-be husband. Best friends and now husband and wife as well, their love is a beautiful thing.

I learned of JJ’s engagement to Jozue through social media and was jumping for joy when she contacted me to work with them. It was an honor to be invited into their lives for one of the most beautiful and happy days I have witnessed to date. JJ’s mother, Thelma, planned most of the day and should seriously consider opening a business as a wedding planner. Friends and family traveled from around the globe to join them on their day; her matron of honor came all the way from Ireland. They even had their fur-baby, Zeus the bull-terrier, join in on the festivities.

Meaningful and fun details were everywhere from her hand-embroidered veil, personalized stamps for the invitations, pinned photos of JJ's loved ones to her bouquet, to the kids writing a rap to sing for everyone during the reception.

Words do not do this couple or this day justice! Congratulations to the new Mr. & Mrs. Ruben!!