Some wedding days simply feel like spring in every sense of the word—fresh beginnings, blooming flowers, and so much joy. Raeleen and Jordan’s Spring Wedding at Notre Dame was exactly that. Surrounded by colorful tulips, historic architecture, and the people they love most, they celebrated the start of their marriage in one of the most beautiful settings Indiana has to offer.
Their vision for the day was timeless and romantic, with elegant pastel florals, bridesmaids in soft butter yellow, groomsmen in classic navy, and thoughtful details that perfectly complemented the beauty of Notre Dame’s campus in the spring.
The day began just steps away from the Basilica at the Morris Inn, where Raeleen spent the morning getting ready with her bridesmaids. There was a quiet excitement in the air as everyone prepared for the ceremony, knowing the next time the couple would see each other would be as Raeleen walked down the aisle.
Inside the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, surrounded by breathtaking stained glass and soaring architecture, Raeleen and Jordan exchanged vows in the beautiful Lady Chapel. Without a first look, that moment of seeing each other for the first time during the ceremony carried even more emotion. It was heartfelt, joyful, and the perfect beginning to their marriage.
After the ceremony, we stayed inside the Basilica to capture family portraits before stepping outside to enjoy everything that makes a spring wedding at Notre Dame so unforgettable.
One of the greatest parts of Spring at Notre Dame is that every direction you turn offers another incredible backdrop. The campus was bursting with color. Tulips lining the walkways, fresh green trees framing the historic buildings, and gorgeous sunlight all around.
We explored several of the campus’s iconic locations, including God Quad, the Golden Dome, the Grotto, and the towering sycamore tree often affectionately referred to as the “Hand of God.” One of Raeleen and Jordan’s must-have photos was with their entire wedding party on the steps leading to the Golden Dome, and it made for such a timeless image that perfectly captured both the grandeur of Notre Dame and the excitement of the day.
Every stop around campus reflected another piece of their story, blending the beauty of spring with one of the most recognizable college campuses in the country.
Following portraits, the celebration continued at Palais Royale in downtown South Bend. Before joining their guests, Raeleen and Jordan shared a private cake cutting together. This quiet moment let them pause and celebrate before the festivities officially began.
Their reception reflected the same timeless elegance as the rest of the day. Soft pastel florals, classic details, and heartfelt speeches created a warm and welcoming atmosphere for family and friends. Instead of a formal grand entrance, they chose to casually join cocktail hour. I loved how this allowed the celebration to unfold naturally. And it kept the focus on spending meaningful time with the people they love.
One especially fun stop before heading inside was outside the Morris Performing Arts Center marquee. Since Jordan’s last name is Morris, photographing them beneath the iconic sign felt like the perfect personal touch and quickly became one of my favorite moments from the day.
As dinner gave way to first dances and an evening full of celebration, the dance floor quickly filled with guests. The reception ended with a beautiful formal send-off, bringing an unforgettable day to a joyful close.
Raeleen and Jordan’s wedding was the perfect reminder that the most meaningful celebrations aren’t just beautiful—they’re intentional. Every detail reflected who they are as a couple, while every moment centered on the people who matter most. It was such an honor to document this incredible Spring Wedding at Notre Dame. I couldn’t be happier for these two as they begin this next chapter together.
Photography
Leah Rife Photo
https://www.leahrifephoto.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahrife
Ceremony Venue
Basilica of the Sacred Heart, University of Notre Dame
https://basilica.nd.edu
Reception Venue
Palais Royale at the Morris Performing Arts Center
https://www.morriscenter.org/palais-royale
Catering
Navarre Hospitality Group
https://www.navarrehospitality.com
Florist
Weesies Brothers Garden Centers & Landscaping
https://www.weesies.com
Wedding Rings
Van Horne Jewelers
https://www.vanhornejewelers.com
Live Band
Mr. Z and Company
https://www.mrzandcompany.com



























































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