"Love and death are intertwined, but love always has the last word."
Kim and Barry are two of the bravest people I’ve met. In their relatively short time together they have survived a long-distance relationship, then once together they have suffered the heartbreak of losing two babies and Barry’s Dad.
It was through the loss of their first son Mason that I met Kim and Barry via my role as a volunteer photographer for Remember My Baby. Kim then tracked me down via my photography business and booked me for their wedding, citing that as I’d seen them at their saddest, could I capture their happiest day? I was honoured to accept.
Little did we know at that point that more sadness was to follow. When Barry’s dad was given only a short while to live, Kim and Barry hastily arranged a registry office wedding so he could see them married.
Then their big wedding was postponed again as they found out they were expecting another boy. Sadly Cody only lived a few days before he gained his angel wings and joined his brother. I was honoured through RMB to capture memories for the family again.
Those Pesky Weather Gods
Finally, their wedding day was almost upon us and something that Kim and Barry could look forward too. Along with their families and the other bravest little person I’ve met, Barry’s daughter Brealyn.
Their venue, Dunmar House, has beautiful grounds and Kim had her heart set on an outdoor ceremony.
I prayed, danced and whispered to those weather gods to make Kim’s wish come true. Surely after everything she deserved this. They listened and the last weekend in July was a scorcher!
Girls, Girls, Girls
When I arrived at Kim’s room the preparations were in full swing. Bride, maid of honour, mums, bridesmaids and the cutest little flower girl were all getting ready.
Boys, Boys, Boys
Not to be outdone Barry had scrubbed up rather nicely and along with Kims dad and his ushers I had them posing at the front of the hotel in a way that Kim later described as the ‘Alloa Mafia’.
Care Package
Kim and Barry made sure that everyone was looked after at their wedding. All the wedding party had personalised goodie bags full of lovely surprises. I was given a huge bag of drinks and snacks to keep me going. Each guest had a guest bag with fans, water, tissues and confetti in amongst other goodies. It was such a lovely touch from this caring couple.
Let's Do This
The bridesmaids looking lovely in blue, led by Miss Braelyn took the scenic route down to the aisle, followed by the maid of honour and finally Kim looking fabulous, clutching her proud dad’s arm. Barry was blown away when he took his first look at her in her wedding dress.
Nobody Forgotten
The ceremony was equal parts funny and poignant. And let’s not forget that confetti!
Kim and Barry wanted to make sure their sons and his dad were there to celebrate with them from the chairs set up for them during the ceremony, Kim’s nails, a memory table and the taking of the bridesmaids bouquets to the boys graves nearby. This was joyful not sad, in fact it was the perfect way to represent them.
Then it was back to the hotel for some Bride and Groom Portraits.
Let's Hear It For The Girls
Slightly unconventionally after Kim’s dad gave a wee speech Kim gave a speech as did Miss Braelyn.
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Dancing Time
Once the dancing started the floor was soon filled especially with the personalised glow sticks Kim had organised.
The weather was still warm and light as I packed up my gear to leave. People were either dancing or taking advantage of the lovely evening to sit outside and shoot the breeze. As I set off home I reflected on the beautiful day and wished with all my heart that this was the start of things looking up for this couple. For if anyone deserves it they do.
Congratulations again Mr & Mrs Kennedy xXx
