March 14, 2009
Familiar Love
Meeting one another through mutual friends, Jaclyn Zurek and Aaron Irions quickly learned they had more in common than just running in the same social circles. From working at their respective family businesses in the RV industry in Elkhart, IN to their similar childhood stories, these familiarities spawned an instant connection for the two. "It all happened so fast," recalls Jaclyn.
Eight months of dating was all the couple needed to affirm their dedication to each other. But after a series of disheartening events and the loss of her grandfather, Jaclyn dismissed the idea of a positive turn of events, let alone an engagement. "When is anything good going to happen?" she questioned Aaron.
In an attempt to lift her spirits, Aaron took over a month to arrange the perfect getaway-a trip to Mackinac Island. During their stay at the romantic Grand Hotel, Aaron waited until the sun hung low in the sky at dusk before reaching for a sparkling ring with a blue sapphire, Jaclyn's favorite gemstone. Aaron's proposal was all she needed to instantly dismiss any worry or fear of what's to come.
As soon as the newly engaged couple arrived home, Jaclyn's older sister, Amanda, had a gift basket waiting full of helpful wedding planning tools. Jaclyn would soon learn, and be deeply grateful, that family plays an integral part in the planning process. "It was really stressful! Deadlines were hard to meet and it was difficult sticking to the timeline especially because we both work full time." Aaron agreed, "I didn't think it was going to be that much work."
Aaron's mom, Vera, took on the role of honorary planner and made a great effort to lessen the couple's anxiety and contribute to checking off wedding "to-do's." She even planned a few surprises as well. Through MichaelAngelos "The Event Company," indoor fireworks were arranged to blast off when the newlyweds were introduced during their long walk down the grand staircase at Century Center. She also booked a stretch Excursion limousine as the get-away car following the reception.
Not all wedding day decisions were difficult to settle. Jaclyn deferred to their all-time favorite colors to define the wedding palette. Aaron was always a fan of green, so the couple decided on a deep sage to offest Jaclyn's favorite color, black. "Everyone looks good in black. Everyday I wear black!" she explains.
Wanting to honor Aaron's late grandmother, a very influential person in their lives, Jaclyn found the perfect way to show their respect. Butterflies, his grandmother's favorite, were used throughout the reception decor. In complementing green and black, the butterflies were carefully placed amidst centerpieces and on the cake-a touch that made a lasting impression on the family.
Both Jaclyn and Aaron decided the best gift they could offer one another on their wedding day would be hand-written letters from the heart. Though Jaclyn's letter was misplaced during the wedding day frenzy and not found until after the festivities, the couple soon learned both letters contained the same tender message, "You're my best friend." The unexpectedness of the letters? similarity amazed them, but they weren't surprised at all. Jaclyn and Aaron's connection began amidst common ground-a comfortable familiarity that best friends know well.
Century Center,
South Bend, IN
Reception Location:
Century Center,
South Bend, IN
Wedding Coordinator:
Melissa A. Barenie,
Special Events Sales Manager
Century Center and Centerplate
Caterer:
Center Plate Catering
Photographer:
Creative Touch Photography
Wakarusa, Indiana
Videographer:
Audiobahn Productions
Granger, IN
Wedding Gown:
Bernardo's For the Bride
South Bend, IN
Bridesmaids' Gowns:
David's Bridal
Alterations:
Lenee's
Edwardsburg, MI
Hair Salon:
Jolene at Fringe Salon
Elkhart, IN
Make-up Artist:
Krissy Vanderwoude
Chicago, IL
Tuxedos:
Men's Warehouse Tux
Mishawaka, IN
Wedding Rings:
VanHorne Jewelers
Flowers:
MichaelAngelos
"The Event Company"
South Bend, IN
Wedding Favors:
S & S Photobooth
Wedding Cake:
Rascia's
Bristol, IN
Invitation:
Cloud Nine Invitation
Elkhart, IN
Reception DJ/MC:
Audiobahn Productions
Granger, IN
Reception Band:
Pat Smillie Band
Chicago, IL
Rehearsal Dinner:
Main Street Grille
Mishawaka, IN
Transportation:
C & C Limo
South Bend, IN
Honeymoon:
Fairmont Resort
Wailea-Maui, Hawaii