Yep. You heard me. They ELOPED!

And there's no better service than Facebook to get the word out! I found out via Jackie's status update, which read: is married to the love of her life! Yes, the wedding is still on for next July but we just couldn't wait any longer :)

And I can't blame them, really. Their chosen wedding date would have meant an 18-month engagement for the two young lovebirds. I remember when Jake proposed, I wanted to run away with him and make it official right away. Because, when you're young and in love, sometimes patience is the last thing on your mind.

And 'twas the case with Jackie and Zach... during a simple conversation one day this winter, they decided they just couldn't wait until July to make things official. They like to do things differently. They were excited to plan an intimate ceremony without being in the spotlight of 200 guests. They described their decision to me as wanting to make it official for themselves, but still not wanting to take away from their big wedding planned for this summer for all their family and friends to enjoy.

So, on December 16th, 2009 - a Wednesday, they went to their minister's home and he performed a 20-minute ceremony in his living room in front of his Christmas tree. Zach's brother Jake and his girlfriend, Kira, were there as witnesses.

At the holidays, Jackie & Zach had the chance to share the news with family and friends. Needless to say, all were completely surprised, but also so very happy for the lucky couple. Their wedding this summer is sure to be a big celebration for everyone. Jackie told me that she is stoked for the opportunity to wear her gown, walk down the aisle, and celebrate. Zach confessed that he is relieved he won't get hit on in public so much now that he's sporting his temporary wedding band (to be replaced with the official one this July), and is much looking forward to his Bachelor Party :)

But perhaps the best, most romantic, parts of this story are the beautiful thoughts that Jackie and Zach had to share about each other:

From Jackie... "Being married has been so amazing and fun. We didn't really expect to feel any different from before but we totally do. We feel so much closer and every time I look at him, I get so giddy inside because I get to call him my husband! I love it."

From Zach... "I love my wife. She has been so supportive and I am excited about our new life together. We have such great plans for life. We both want to be parents of a role model family that supports and loves each other, accepts all people equally and gives back what we take from the Earth. My wife is an angel and she has the kindest heart. She has taught me so much and I feel so privileged to be in her life."

These proclamations give me goosebumps, and teary eyes, and a heart full of happiness. And this, my friends, is what it's all about.

Congratulations you two. I am so honored to be your photographer. You have something special, and there is so much to celebrate!

(And a huge thanks to their witness Kira for making sure to get some photos of it!!)