Hayden & Melissa Butler - December 20, 2008

I had done it once before, but completely forgot how difficult it is to shoot a wedding that you're in.  Earlier this year, my younger brother and his fiancé asked that I video their ceremony and be the best man.  Seeing that it could, in fact, be done, my little sister thought she'd also employ our services and I found myself scrambling between the role of videographer and brother/groomsman.  The ceremony was officiated by both my dad and Aaron Porter at First Baptist Church in San Luis Obispo.  A cake reception was held in the social hall of the church and a slightly more intimate dinner reception was held at the Portola Inn in Atascadero.  Though far from perfect, I hope this trailer caught a glimpse into the amazing and holy union between two extraordinary people.

Ely Roberts took the pictures below.  He and his assistant, Squirrelly, rocked it!

 The man of the hour, Mr. Hayden Butler.  Here he sits cool and collected before the big, "I do."  On the mantle in the background is a Dolly Parton book my sister gave my wife as a thank you gift. Creepy.

Here, my cousin Laura helps Melissa into her dress.  The tattoo you see says, 'Doulos' and means 'Bondservant.'  Very cool.

For the most part, Dad kept it together all day.  Secretly we were taking bets on how long it take for the first tear to fall... if it ever did happen, Dad hid it well.

We took the pre-ceremony pics at my house.  Here's a huddle of groomsmen under the oak tree behind the house.

Ely had us all crawl up on the roof for a few crazy shots.  With Hayden leading the way, Captain Morgan and I responsibly took up the rear.

My wife, Katherine, made me look good as we headed down the aisle.

Father and daughter, walking down the aisle.

Like I said, completely unmanned for the entire ceremony.  Not ideal, but we got it!

Looking heavenward during a time of worship.

Sealing their vows with a not-so-subtle kiss.

I forgot to mention that my brother, Tim, and I ran secret service for the evening.  Don't be fooled by our strikingly good looks.  We meant business.  Actually, Hayden is the first guy we didn't try to beat away with a stick, drown in a remote river, push off a cliff, run over with a truck or... well, you get the picture.

Another kiss after the ceremony.  Think these two are happy to finally be married?

I love this picture.  Slow dancing at the reception.

Here I am again, grabbing some reception highlights.

Hayden and Melissa - I pray for God's blessing and grace in your marriage.  I know He has great things planned for the two of you and I can't wait to see how your love for each other and our God will change the world.  Love selflessly.  Serve without expectation.  And don't forget to have fun.  I love you both.  Congratulations!!!