This wedding is the story of a sweet couple, a dapper poodle, a toothless horse, and an imprisoned hummingbird.

Hannah and Forrest met in college. She was attending Washington University in St. Louis, and he was attending the University of Missouri. It wasn’t long before they were attached at the hip. They love games, gardening, music, and have so much in common. One thing they have in common is their love for looking out for others. They aren’t having fun unless everybody is having fun. Their wedding reflected that, as well as their love for nature and animals. Their poodle, Leo, was part of the photos and the ceremony. After the ceremony, they took a horse-drawn carriage ride during cocktail hour. We learned from the carriage driver and horse handler that the horse had been rescued from a rough past and, due to poor care in his younger years, was toothless. Hannah especially enjoyed feeding the horse soft treats, a moment that was both sweet and heartwarming.

Because I knew this couple loves animals, it especially tugged on my heartstrings to see a hummingbird in distress. The poor thing had flown into the venue and gotten itself stuck up near the rafters. We watched throughout the day as it frantically searched for an exit through sealed windows that were twenty feet in the air. During the maid of honor’s toast, the bird finally dropped down, exhausted, landing right under Hannah’s dad’s chair. As soon as an opportunity presented itself, my sweet, heroic husband swiftly scooped the bird up, and I ran ahead to open the door. We were able to return the little guy to the great outdoors where he belonged. Hooray for a happy ending!

The wedding took place at The Sycamore at Mallow Run, a stunning venue nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Indiana countryside on the southwest side of Indianapolis. Known for its lush vineyards and elegant mountain cabin-style architecture, the venue provides an idyllic blend of rustic charm and modern sophistication. With its high vaulted ceilings, exposed wooden beams, stacked stone fireplaces, and expansive windows, The Sycamore allows guests to feel immersed in nature while enjoying the comforts of a beautifully designed event space. Surrounded by thick greenery, it’s the perfect backdrop for a celebration that honors both love and the natural world.

I mentioned that this couple can’t have fun unless everyone is having fun. One unique feature of this venue is the seamless transitions between beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces. During the reception, the talented DJ kept the party going with really great mashups inside. The dance floor was still packed with people well after 11pm. Those who needed a break from dancing and wanted to relax and have more quieter spaces to drink, chat, and be cozy were able to enjoy the porches and patios outdoors that were well lit and warmed with gas fireplaces. For that reason, and the exceptional organization of Kim, the venue’s event coordinator, this spot quickly shot to the top of my list of favorites. All of that, and perfect weather too! This wedding couldn’t have been more perfect!

I want to give credit to the folks who helped to make this day so lovely:

• Venue: The Sycamore at Mallow Run | Bargersville, IN
• Sycamore Event Coordinator: Kim Walls
• Florist: Jennifer Fledderman – Ambrose Beautiful Borrowed Bouquets | Greenwood, IN
• Hair: Phillip Salmon – Blue House Salon | Indianapolis, IN
• Makeup: Bailey and Ashley Hamer (Skin Twins) | Greenwood, IN
• DJ: Kreation DJs | Indianapolis, IN
• Videographer: Isaac Ross
• Caterer: Nameless Catering | Indianapolis, IN

Hannah and Forrest, it was a treat to get to know you! Congratulations on an absolutely stunning wedding day. I honestly don’t know how you could have improved on it. I’m grateful that you asked me to be part of this day. I hope this is the kick-off of a long and happy life together. I wish you many happy anniversaries.