Y’all… Buddy the elf got it all wrong. The best way to spread Christmas cheer ISN’T singing loud for all to hear; it’s inviting your family and friends to your home on Christmas Eve for a surprise wedding! <3

While we wouldn’t usually take a wedding on our anniversary, Nate and I were in Disneyland when we first got Scott’s inquiry and we both got goosebumps! It wasn’t a matter of “if” we’d make it happen, but how, seeing as we’d have to shuffle some family plans to make it happen. I’ve always wanted to photograph a surprise wedding, and I honestly can’t think of a better way to spend our 9th anniversary afternoon than seeing this beautiful couple exchange vows. <3

This was the beautiful view Scott and Michael’s guests were treated to when they arrived for drinks. :)

Last minute cheat-sheet prep by their close friend and officiant, who also doubled as bartender. I told him he could make a killing here in Orlando combining those two services! ;)

THIS GIRL. <3 I fell in love with Michelle on our first shoot together, and she was 1/2 of the reason we got the incredible honor of photographing this wedding! Scott was going to hire a client’s daughter to shoot the event, and Michelle insisted he hire us. After a few minutes, they realized they were both talking about ME! Scott has cut my step dad’s hair for years! Such a small world. :)

It seemed their guests figured out they were there for a wedding at varying times, but I got to be present for a couple light bulb moments. :)

After everyone arrived, Scott and Michael led us to the back porch for the ceremony.

It took Scott’s sweet mom a good minute into the ceremony to realize her son was getting married!!

I loved Scott’s excitement when Michael put his wedding band on! :)

Every time I look at this photo, I get a lump in my throat. <3

The usual suspects! ;) See more photos of Michelle and Pocket HERE!

Marriage license time!!

The real star of the day- Warren! <3

Our favorite. <3

Scott and Michael, we hope y’all know how much it meant to us to be a part of this exciting chapter in your story!! From one Christmas Eve couple to another, we truly wish you the happiest of ever afters. Cheers, friends!!