Dante + Ruth | Grand Rapids Wedding at The Gallery at Divani
It has been a pleasure getting to know Dante and Ruth over the past year. We were introduced to them through Ruth's father Ralph, a realtor in Grand Rapids who we have known for many years. He mentioned his daughter was getting married and wondered if we would be able to photograph her wedding day.
Unfortunately we were already booked for the date, but thankfully we have a great team of associate photographers that we could connect with them. Jason and Tara, who have worked alongside us for the past several years, photographed their wedding day, along with another photographer friend, Ed.
Earlier in the year, Jason and Tara photographed Dante and Ruth's engagement photos from the Gerald R Ford Airport. In case you haven't seen their engagement photos, I'd recommend checking out the session as there are few times couples are able to have access to the airport like Dante and Ruth had.
Wedding Vendors
Ceremony Location: Neland Aveneue Christian Reformed Church
Reception Location & Catering: The Gallery at Divani
Wedding Dress: Allure, purchased at Bridal Gallery
Bridesmaids Dresses: David's Bridal
Groom's Tux: Dunhill Tuxedo
Hair & Makeup: Abby Heitz at Jeffrey Richard Salon
Flowers: Horrocks
Wedding Cake: Connie's Cakes
The day began at Neland Avenue CRC in Grand Rapids where Dante and Ruth both got ready, had a beautiful first look before the ceremony, followed by time for portraits before becoming husband and wife.
One of our favorite parts of their ceremony was Ruth's father, Ralph, a former pastor, was able to serve them communion during their wedding ceremony. It's special touches like this that make each and every ceremony and wedding day unique.
Following the ceremony Dante and Ruth held a private foot washing ceremony to symbolize their commitment to one another. As the first thing after their ceremony, it displays their willingness to serve one another as husband and wife.
After the foot washing ceremony and family portraits, Jason and Ed whisked the wedding party to downtown Grand Rapids.
The first stop was the JW Marriott where the rain could not hinder wedding party portraits. Using the fantastic staircase as the backdrop, the wedding party, along with Dante and Ruth look amazing.
The next few stops were part of the Downtown Skywalk in where everyone could continue to stay dry.
Then it was a quick hop back in the limo with a final stop at Rosa Parks Circle where the rain had left a wonderful layer of water on the urban space which Jason and Ed used for a few great portraits while the rain came down ever so lightly.
The evening ended with a celebration at The Gallery at Bar Divani in downtown Grand Rapids. The Gallery is a tucked away hidden gem in downtown Grand Rapids for events less than 80 guests for sit down dinner. The exposed brick and large windows provide a welcoming environment and the meal and cake, provided by Bar Divani, are always wonderful.
The evening ended with toasts, dinner and time to mix and mingle with their wedding guests.
