Amelia decided early in life that she would grow up to be a princess, among other things.  Meanwhile, Ben was busy becoming an expert on princesses and other things – or at least as close as one can get – by earning a Ph.D. in Folklore.  Their wedding was everything that a fairy tale should be – good friends, romance, and a sense of timelessness.

I’ve been looking forward to Amelia and Ben’s wedding ever since I met Amelia back in January.  Amelia and I share a love for bellydancing, and Ben’s background in Folklore is one of the few fields closely related to my background in ethnomusicology.  I was quite smitten with the way they incorporated their friends and family in their wedding, and their witty and creative design ideas.

Amelia and Ben held their ceremony and reception at the Swedish American Museum in Andersonville.  I couldn’t help myself.  I felt so witty getting the shoe-and-ring shot with a pair of wooden shoes from the museum.  I crack myself up….

Ben’s shoes were the real stars of the day, though.  He ordered custom purple Converse sneakers with the wedding date embroidered on the side.  You are THE MAN, Ben.

Amelia got ready upstairs at the museum.  Displaying her dress with this colorful collection of old books seemed appropriate for this well-read couple.

Amelia’s gorgeous mom helped her get ready.  The happy tears started flowing early and lasted all evening.  I also want to point out Amelia’s Awesome tiara, which was custom-made by a dear friend.  Fit for a princess.

Oh Amelia, you are gorgeous.  I could photograph you all day.

Amelia’s family came together and made Amelia and Ben this gorgeous quilt before the wedding.  I think it actually looks like a stained-glass window in this image.

Amelia’s friends made her these awesome centerpieces.  Each table was different and depicted different myths and fairy tales.  Fantastic.

The head table was simple, but beautiful:

On to the dancing!  I really love these dancing images of Amelia and Ben.  I think this one is so glam, and I love how Ben makes Amelia laugh:

Here’s a little dancing detail:

And, finally, one of my faves from the night.  I love how affectionate Ben and Amelia are, and a little dramatic lighting doesn’t hurt either:

Still hungry for more?  Check out Amelia and Ben’s wedding slideshow: