“Salt.” When I ask couples what flavor they would use to describe the other person, I’ve gotten a lot of interesting answers. I’ve heard Chick-Fil-A sauce. cheesecake, and I believe someone once said lasagna. But salt? This was one I was not prepared for. After hearing Gunnar’s reason though, I think this answer excellently shows the kind of relationship these two share. “Renee is like salt. Everywhere I’ve lived has always been on the coast and so salt is a big part of my life. It’s homely and comfortable and I put it on everything. It’s something that’s always there and is always going to be there.” If anyone reading this is ever lucky enough to interact with these two, you’ll see just how true this statement really is. Renee and Gunnar truly are… comfortable. When you are around them, you feel peace and joy. These two have fought through a years of long distance to get to where they are today, and it has built them into an unyieldingly devoted couple.

I would be remiss if I did not stop to mention one of my favorite things about this pair. Renee and Gunnar’s story starts in one of the most unique ways I think I have ever heard. While on a mission trip in DC, their story begins in a preschool gym. While eating breakfast, Gunnar did this thing with his banana where he snaps it to peel it. Now, fully confident in her ability to mimic this impressive feet, Renee proceeded to repeat Gunnar’s success. However, having never done this before, Renee had absolutely no idea what she was doing and proceeded to smashed her banana into the table where is exploded. Instantly, Gunnar knew this was the kind of woman he wanted to pursue and from there began subtly working to be close to this woman. From there things progressed slowly, with Gunnar’s family being stationed far away at varying points. Eventually however, under a gazebo overlooking a harbor, Gunnar dropped to his knee and asked his amazing, quirky woman to be his bride.

Now, Gunnar and Renee are married, and this world is made better for it. They are loving, considerate, and simply put, great. I am so proud of the journey these two have overcome and who they have become.

SPECIAL THANKS TO…

Second Photographer – Jessica Barrett Photography

Venue – Astro Entertainment

Wedding Planner – Astro Entertainment

Videographer – Leila Haddad

Florist – Fluttering Flowers

Cake Artist – Carrie’s Cakes and Confections

Pianist – Ryan Flug

Wedding Dress – Poshmark, Asos

Bridesmaids Dresses – ASOS online

Tuxes – Jos. A Banks

Gorgeous flowers! Thank Fluttering Flowers!

This dress was so Renee! Elegant. Simple. Beautiful.

Chick-Fil-A anyone?

Thank you to my incredible assistant Jessica for making this photo happen!

Good luck you two! Love you both!