On this glorious day in early spring in Berlin, the sun was shining brightly as I arrived at Marie & Kay's Apartment. The air was filled with excitement and anticipation, as no one could have imagined a more perfect day for their wedding. It was no surprise that their spirits were high, having already devoured a small breakfast and almost completed their preparations. Without delay, we set out into the warm and inviting spring sun, climbing aboard Kay's best man's festival van, which had been lovingly restored and decorated for the occasion.

As we embarked on our journey, Marie & Kay settled comfortably into the back seat of the festival van, while I perched on a nearby water cooler. The ride itself was an experience to remember, cruising through the sun-kissed streets of Berlin as rays of light streamed into the cabin, illuminating the loving couple as they held each other's hands. Despite their calm and relaxed appearance, excitement and anticipation filled their hearts, wondering what the day and ceremony would bring. However, as we arrived at the registry office, their families welcomed them with open arms and popped bottles of champagne, washing away any lingering doubts and fears, and filling the air with pure joy.

As tempting as the pre-ceremony festivities were, Marie & Kay were eager to proceed with the ceremony and officially tie the knot. Kay had faced difficulties working in Russia, especially during the months following the invasion of Ukraine, and the two of them had been filled with uncertainty and anxiety about the future. Yet, as they walked down the aisle and took their seats at the registry office, all those worries disappeared. They listened attentively as the registrar recounted their story, and exchanged their vows, finally sealing their love in marriage.

As the newlyweds exited the Hochzeitsvilla Zehlendorf, they were met with a joyful crowd of guests who had gathered outside. The location had been transformed into a charming wedding celebration, complete with custom decorations, vintage cars, and even white pigeons. Marie & Kay's wedding party joined in the festivities, setting up their own folding tables to enjoy a spontaneous reception in the warm sunlight. The atmosphere was filled with high spirits as the couple made their way through a tunnel of flowers, down the stairs, and into the midst of their loved ones. It was a serene and beautiful scene that Marie & Kay fully immersed themselves in, basking in the love and joy of their closest friends and family. When it was time to leave, they hopped back into the festival van accompanied by their loved ones and a bottle of champagne, ready for a joyful drive through the sunlit streets of Berlin.

Before the wedding dinner, Marie & Kay stole away for a little alone time to take some couple photos in the vicinity of the restaurant. They had chosen a dinner location in the heart of Prenzlauer Berg, a neighborhood they knew well, and they set out for a leisurely stroll through the wide streets of the beautiful Berlin Kiez. As they explored, they received compliments from strangers, peeked into a typical Berlin Hinterhof, and basked in the warm sun in front of the stunning Zionskirche. It was exactly what they had envisioned, and it gave them renewed energy as they made their way back to the restaurant to join the rest of the wedding party.

Before the much-anticipated wedding lunch could begin, it was time for group photos. Of course, Marie & Kay wanted photos of all their guests, but they also made sure to capture some special shots of their closest friends and family members. Fortunately, everyone was in a lively and energetic mood, and I was able to capture some fantastic family and friends group photos. Only once did I need to ask them to wave for the camera - the rest of the time, the dynamics were so wonderful that I just let it unfold naturally.

Once the group photos were done, it was finally time for the long-awaited lunch. The beautiful boho-style decorations inside the “heimlichTreu” invited everyone to relax and unwind, while wine and starters were being served. The guests were illuminated beautifully by the soft light shining through the large window fronts, while Marie’s dad held his emotional wedding speech. Joyful applause filled the air, and both Marie & Kay hugged each other warmly. Soon after, guests lifted their forks and knives to enjoy the delights of the carefully crafted wedding lunch.
Overall, it was a day filled with love, joy, and celebration. Everything was perfect, from the sunny weather to the festival van, the ceremony, and the lunch. Marie & Kay were surrounded by their loved ones, and everything felt magical.