Catherine & Brett I Wedding at Owl's Nest

Two of my closest friends tied the knot on June 10, 2017 at the bride's family home in Connecticut. Friends that I consider my second family. When trying to decide what to put in this post about Catherine and Brett, I felt sharing my toast during their reception would be the best and only way I could properly express my sentiments toward them. It is rather long, so bare with me, but I feel it not only explains them as a couple, but the impact they have on others:

"I will start off by saying that I had a much harder time writing this than I thought I would, I think mainly because trying to condense everything I want to say seemed impossible. I have spent the last seven years watching you two build a life together and feel very lucky to be here with everyone this weekend to witness this next step.

I think it is safe to say that the three of us have been through quite a lot together. Mainly all laughs, but definitely times where we all needed each other. At a time in my life when I needed support, you both took me under your wing. You two have been nothing but loyal, accepting and nurturing friends who I would call my second family without any hesitation. The friendship we have built is unlike anything I have ever experienced thus far and something I believe people would be truly grateful to have. The same goes for your relationship.

[To the guests] I could stand here tonight and just simply list all the reasons why these two make a wonderful couple. Like how their chemistry is undeniable. Whether it is when they are on the dance floor and it's as if nobody else is in the room, or translated in photographs where they look at each other and it’s as if time stands still for just a moment. Or how they strive to be the best version of themselves every day so they are stronger as a whole. Not because they have to, but because they are the types of individuals who always want to grow and be better for themselves and their partner. But I think these things seem fairly obvious to everyone here.

So next I would like to thank you two. Thank you for all the things you taught me as a result of just knowing you. I have learned the value of of patience and positivity in all the various aspects of life, and become a stronger person for it. I think most people can agree that there are some things that don’t always go as planned, and it is easy to give up. You two have shown me that personal strength grows at times when you keep going even if you don’t want to or think you can. I know for you two, a lot of your strength comes from the support you give each other. I have learned it is okay to be vulnerable and put yourself out there. I can honestly say that I wouldn’t have had the courage to pursue my passion if it weren’t for your motivation and watching you consistently encouraging each other. It has been a wonderful and inspiring environment to be around.Finally, I have learned you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. For Catherine, it is to master the art of Jewish cooking. For Brett, it is being able to have the best time even if you are surrounded by an army of all women. You are a good man, B.

I guess what I am trying to say is not only do you bring out the best in one another, but y’all have made others better people through how you demonstrate love. It is important you know that and never forget it. I found a short quote that I want to share because I think it offers some great words of wisdom. “Love. It is a short word. Easy to spell, difficult to define, and impossible to live without. Love is work, but most of all, love is realizing that every hour, every minute, every second of it was worth it because you did it together.”

Please join me in raising a glass to cheers the beautiful couple. I hope each chapter of your story continues to be as amazing, if not better, than the one before."

Below are some select images that I captured throughout the evening. I love you both so much!