Some love stories unfold quietly, in the smallest, most meaningful moments. For Marissa and Chris, it all began on an early hike, a sunny day, her dog Jaxon leading the way, and an unexpected adventure that changed everything and led them to a romantic barn wedding at Venue 5126.
How They Knew
On one of their first dates, Marissa brought Chris hiking with Jaxon. Afterward, they discovered Chris was covered in ticks. “I was so embarrassed,” she told us, “and offered to drop him off so he could go home.” Instead, Chris insisted they stop at the pet store for tick shampoo. Later, he sat in her small bathroom, gently combing through Jaxon’s fur — calm, patient, kind.
“It was the moment I knew I was falling in love with him,” Marissa said. “That I wanted to be with him forever.”
The Wedding
Their day at Venue 5126 was every bit as heartfelt and intentional as their story. Set in the middle of a cornfield, the venue offered rustic charm and sweeping views of the countryside. The ceremony took place inside the barn, glowing with warm light and surrounded by love.
Marissa and Chris described the space as “rustic elegance” — the perfect blend of Midwest charm and romantic detail. The dinner tent twinkled with string lights, laughter, and the sound of glasses clinking as guests celebrated the start of their forever.
For Chris, the most powerful moment came when they read their vows to each other mid-ceremony. “It felt like time stopped,” he said. “Just us, standing there, promising our lives to each other.”
Marissa’s favorite moment? Their first look. “I’ve never seen Chris so emotional,” she said. “It’s something I’ll never forget.”
Advice for Future Couples
When asked what advice they’d give to future couples, both shared something that every bride and groom should hear:
“Try to do a mix of DIY and hiring professionals. If you try to DIY everything, you’ll get overwhelmed — and sometimes the cost of materials ends up the same as paying someone else to do it for you. Choose what truly matters to you, and let the rest go.”
The Future
The newlyweds haven’t taken their honeymoon just yet, but they’re planning a European adventure next May. Until then, they’re soaking in everyday life together.
Chris said it best: “Living every day with my best friend.”
Marissa smiled and added, “Same. I love every season with Chris. I can’t imagine him not by my side.”
We Would Love to be Your Wedding Photographer
It would be an honor to become a part of your wedding team. We create that timeless keepsake of your big day you’ll love forever. Myself and my team of wedding photographers at videographers at Lauren Ashley Studios will go above and beyond to capture the atmosphere of your special occasion, and share it with passion and authenticity.
