Lily + Ruslan | Spokane Wedding | Amber Tyler Photographer

It was such a great experience getting to photograph Lily and Ruslan's wedding! They are such a sweet couple with amazing friends and family that we all got to celebrate with for the day. This wedding was a little different than the usual for me though. The families are Russian, so the whole ceremony and reception was conducted in Russian. At first I was a little nervous because there are cues I listen for at every wedding to know whats coming next, but in this case I had to read body language and go based off of emotion since I do not speak the language. What I found to be so significant is that even though I did not understand the language, there was an overwhelming sense of love and presence of God in their ceremony. The families of each side took turns saying a prayer for the bride and groom, and I couldn't understand it, yet I could feel it. Both sides were so full of love and pure joy for this couple. These feelings and emotions are universal no matter what language they are spoken in.

After the ceremony, we went to the church for their reception where they ate, played some games, watched some videos and slideshows of the couple from when they were younger, and their family and friends sang songs throughout the evening for them. It was so different from the usual reception that I am used to, but it was so personal and touching. A refreshing change up! Everything from the food to table details were all done by friends and family. They all put their hearts into this wedding.

After the reception we headed out to Farragut Park for the bride/groom and bridal party portraits. We had so much fun exploring the scenery that the park had to offer, and the light was so beautiful. As you can see below, this wedding party is GORGEOUS! Check out a few of my favorite shots below!

Lily and Ruslan,

Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your special day. There were many firsts I got to experience by you sharing this day with me. Your families are truly amazing and I can't wait to see what God has in store for the future for both of you!

Sincerely,

Amber Tyler