The Day I Became a Wife

July 20th, 2024. Falling Rock, South Dakota. A date and place etched in my memory forever.

When it was time, he jumped out of the truck, excited as ever, while I sat for a moment, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. I wanted everything to be perfect—my dress, my shoes, my hair, everything. I closed my eyes, said a quick prayer, and then, feeling a rush of courage, I stepped out.

The wedding planners were already chatting with him, and as soon as I met them, they instantly put me at ease. They were kind, calm, and completely in control. Then came a surprising twist: one of them was from Presho, South Dakota! What are the odds? This incredible team I’d been working with—based all the way in Las Vegas—was being led by someone from our home state, and the town my soon to be husband was from. That small, beautiful coincidence felt like God’s little way of saying, “You’re in the right place.”

When they handed me my bouquet, I was speechless. It was beyond stunning—more beautiful than anything I had pictured in my mind. With that bouquet in hand, we started walking side by side toward our ceremony spot. Yes, in tennis shoes. The hike to the spot was a little rugged, but honestly, that walk felt perfect for us.

Our officiant walked with us, asking why we chose to elope and about our thoughts on marriage. It was a beautiful conversation that reminded us both why we were there: to make a lifelong vow, not just have a fancy day. He smiled, took a few notes, and let us soak in the moment. As we approached the spot, I caught my first glimpse of it, and it completely took my breath away. Towering cliffs, lush greenery, and a sky that seemed to stretch forever. It was like something out of a dream, and I knew we’d made the right choice. It just so happened to be the perfect day too! A South Dakota day with only a slight breeze, again another gift from God.

The photographer was with us the entire time, capturing the little moments: him helping me adjust my shoes, me fixing my veil, and us laughing as we got ready to say our vows. Every detail felt intentional and special.

And then, just like that, it was time.

I went first with my vows, which I had spent weeks writing and rewriting. I was determined to hold it together, and surprisingly, I did. When it was his turn, though, he completely blew me away. His words were raw and beautiful, and even though he might not want this detail shared…he cried. And yes, the photographer captured it. Those photos of him crying as he read his vows are some of my absolute favorites.

We exchanged rings, and our officiant spoke a few heartfelt words. Looking back, I wish we had recorded that part, but in the moment, I just soaked it all in.

We said “I do,” and when he kissed me, I felt this indescribable rush of joy. In that instant, I was no longer just Chelsea—I was a wife. His wife. Chelsea Hutchison.

The whole experience was everything I had hoped for and more. It was intimate, meaningful, and a true reflection of our love. Looking back now, I wouldn’t have changed a single thing.

And yes, those pictures? They turned out amazing.

Till next time,

Chelsea