I was in my hometown of Brazil, Indiana to ring in the New Year. My family had two reasons to celebrate: the start of 2016 and the marriage of my cousin, Brittany! She and her fiance Jason had worked for a long time, planning a party for their friends and family to enjoy, and I was excited to see what they had in store for us.

The day started at the church where the two would be delivering their vows. It was overcast and gloomy outside…

…but there was plenty of warmth and cheer inside! Here’s Brittany, getting some help putting on her gown. She was surrounded by her bridesmaids and my Aunt Debbie during the preparations.
Brittany’s son Brodie was looking dapper in his suit. It’s hard to believe how much he’s grown…
I get this look from Brittany a lot.
My Aunt Debbie made sure everything was in place and perfect on the gown before sending Brittany off for pre-ceremony pictures.
Brittany and Jason had their first look just outside of the church. They spent a few minutes admiring each other and then we set to work taking pictures.
When we finished outside, Brodie was spent. He gave his mom a quick hug…
…and took a few minutes to rest up before the big walk down the aisle.
This groomsman helped to prepare for the ceremony by lighting candles throughout the sanctuary. It was a tough job, but someone had to do it!
I brought along this cutout photo of my Grandmother to pose with Brittany. She would have been so proud and happy for Brittany and Jason.
My Uncle Mike was smiling ear to ear when he saw his niece in her wedding gown.
Thumbs up from Debbie! That means it’s time to get married!
Brittany was escorted down the aisle by both her father and Brodie. They took their place in front of the altar and the pastor began the service. Enjoy these pictures from Brittany and Jason’s wedding ceremony!:
Vows and rings were exchanged, and the minister ended the ceremony with a prayer for the newlyweds…
…and after a first kiss, Brittany and Jason made their way to the narthex to greet their guests in a receiving line.
My cousin (and Brittany’s sister), Breanne (center), was one of the bridesmaids. She was ready to get to the reception!
The party kicked off with toasts, led off by Jason’s Best Man. Brittany’s friend Anna gave a toast in honor of her friends as well.
When dinner was finished, Brittany and Jason warmed up the floor by sharing their first dance…
…and then welcomed her father for a special dance.
Then it was time to party! My cousin’s daughter Shaylyn was the first one out, showing off all of her best dance moves.
Brodie put on some more comfortable clothes so that he could boogie down with ease.
Brittany’s nephew Mason was having fun exploring and saying hi to family.
Brenda could barely handle all the excitement.
Part of the dance party included a dollar dance, during which guests contributed to the honeymoon fund in exchange for a dance with the bride.
When the dollar dance was over, the floor opened to everyone who was ready to party.
My niece and nephew, Kloee and Kadyn, seen here being strangled by my sister, were definitely ready to party.
My Aunt Janet and Uncle Brad were all smiles as they shared a slow dance together.
My Uncle Ron and Aunt Debbie (Brittany’s parents) have been married for over 40 years! They’re showing Brittany and Jason how it’s done, for sure.
The party went on late into the night, and as midnight drew close, guests grabbed hats and noisemakers to ring in the New Year.
My cousin Brandon and his wife Crissy kept their eyes fixed on the big screen as the clock wound down.
Brodie positioned himself for an important surprise. 3… 2… 1…
Happy New Year!
The balloon drop was a big hit…
…especially with Kadyn.
Jarrod was having a good time, too.
Whew! That was fun, but Brodie, like a lot of us, was worn out!
Breanne’s kids were still going strong, though.
I can’t think of a better way to start the year. Congratulations, Brittany and Jason!