Some wedding days stay with you long after the last song plays — and Annie and Kristin’s wedding was absolutely one of those days.
From the moment I met them, I knew their day would be filled with laughter, personality, and so much genuine love. Their December wedding at The Brick in South Bend, Indiana was the perfect mix of heartfelt moments, meaningful details, and one unforgettable celebration.
And honestly? It was exactly who they are as a couple.
❤️ A Love Story That Started With Sports (and Souvenir Cups)
Annie and Kristin met online while both living in Ohio, and their very first date set the tone for their entire relationship — a Cleveland Cavaliers game.
Kristin worked for the Cleveland Monsters hockey team and had access to tickets, so many of their early dates were spent cheering at sporting events together. Sports quickly became part of their love story, and today they collect souvenir cups from every new stadium or game they attend — a tradition that started from that very first date.
But beyond shared interests, their connection ran deeper.
For Annie, she knew Kristin was “her person” when she felt like her true self again — laughing more, worrying less about what others thought, and feeling supported during one of the hardest seasons of her life after losing her father. Kristin honored his memory in ways that meant everything to Annie.
For Kristin, the moment came when Annie met her entire family for the first time on New Year’s Eve. Surrounded by extended family, games, and laughter, Annie fit in instantly — convincing Kristin’s brother to buy an Orbeez gun and even convincing Grandpa she played softball for Oklahoma University. By the end of the night, Kristin knew Annie already belonged.
💍 A Proposal Full of Surprises (and One Very Excited Dog)
On November 21, 2024, Annie planned a proposal Kristin would never forget.
She spelled out “Will You Marry Me?” using Christmas ornaments inside Kristin’s apartment, all while coordinating a fake dinner plan with friends to make sure Kristin was dressed up for the moment.
There was just one problem — Kristin planned to change outfits later.
After a very convincing car ride (and some gentle insistence), Kristin finally walked into the apartment where Annie waited by the Christmas tree with their dog, Gunnar.
Kristin said yes — and Gunnar immediately tackled Annie mid-proposal, creating one of their favorite memories of the entire moment.
The surprise didn’t end there. Hours later, Kristin realized their friends’ “flat tire” excuse had been part of the plan all along.
📸 A Wedding Day Full of Joy at The Brick
Their wedding day at The Brick in South Bend was everything they hoped for: fun, relaxed, and focused on celebrating with the people they love most.
One of the sweetest moments?
They discovered they had chosen dresses from the same designer — completely unintentionally — making their first look at each other even more special.
They wanted their wedding to feel like a party, and judging by guest reactions, they absolutely succeeded. The morning after, friends and family were already asking when the next party would be because they had so much fun.
And honestly, that energy lasted all day long.
✨ The Decision That Changed Their Day (For the Better)
Originally, Annie wasn’t sure about doing a first look.
But after talking through their vision and timeline, they decided to see each other before the ceremony — and it became one of their favorite decisions.
They rented a party bus, traveled to multiple photo locations, and spent time together laughing and relaxing before the ceremony even began.
Instead of feeling rushed, they were able to truly enjoy their day.
“I really did not want to do a first look… but I am so glad we did it.”
Moments like this are exactly why thoughtful timeline planning matters so much.
🗂 Wedding Planning Advice From Annie & Kristin
Like many couples, wedding planning felt overwhelming at first.
“Where do we start? What comes next? Is this in the budget?”
But through it all, they learned an important lesson they now share with future couples:
Do what YOU want and don’t worry about other people’s opinions.
Their biggest planning takeaway?
Getting ready hair and makeup at the venue would have helped them feel less rushed.
Trusting their timeline made the day flow smoothly.
Choosing vendors they loved made all the difference.
🤍 A Dream Vendor Team
Annie and Kristin truly loved every vendor they worked with — something that shows in how smoothly their day unfolded.
Venue: The Brick — South Bend, IN
Photography: Oh Shoot Photography
DJ: SG Entertainment
Hair & Makeup: Tangles Salon
Dresses: The Bridal Bar – Fort Wayne
Dessert: Sis & Me Bakery
Transportation: Gladwell Party Limo
Catering: Navarre Catering and Events
Florals: Goshen Floral & Gift Shop
A strong vendor team creates a stress-free experience, and their wedding was proof of that.
🥂 Life After “I Do”
Now that they’re married, Annie and Kristin are looking forward to their next chapter together — planning a honeymoon for their one-year anniversary, buying a home, and starting a family.
More than anything, they’re excited simply to build life together with their growing little family.
✨ Final Thoughts From Their Photographer
By the end of the night, Annie and Kristin told me they felt like we were friends — and honestly, that’s always my goal.
Wedding photography isn’t just about photos. It’s about trust, comfort, and having someone beside you who helps the day feel easier and more fun.
Their wedding was joyful, emotional, and completely authentic to who they are — and I already can’t wait for our next session (especially when their dog finally joins us!).
Planning Your Own Wedding?
If you’re planning a wedding in West Michigan, South Bend, or the surrounding Midwest, and want photography that captures real emotion, genuine moments, and the story behind your day, I’d love to connect with you.
👉 Inquire here: https://www.ohshoot.photography
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