Ben & Maddie’s Joyful Christ Centered Wedding at The Rustic Barn at Hopewell, Urbana Indiana
Christian Wedding at The Rustic Barn at Hopewell, Indiana
Some weddings just stick with you, not because of the décor or even the venue, but because of the way God’s love was so clearly woven through the day. Ben and Maddie’s wedding at The Rustic Barn at Hopewell in Urbana, Indiana was exactly that. Their celebration was full of intentional details, meaningful traditions, and joy that overflowed to everyone present.
Yes, it was hot. HOT. With an outdoor ceremony and a barn reception without air conditioning, the August Indiana sun made its presence known. But here’s the beautiful part: Maddie told me afterward that during the ceremony, she didn’t even notice the heat. She was so focused on Ben and the covenant they were making before God that the rest of the world just faded away.
The Bride’s home church pastor, Joseph Bein of Chalmers Community Church, joined the two as husband and wife.
A Love Story Rooted in Faith
Ben and Maddie’s love story began back at Ball State University. However, HOW they met depends on who you ask. Maddie swears they first met during their freshman year gym visits, but Ben remembers it differently, during their junior year at a Cru campus ministry event.
What they both agree on is this: God’s hand was on their relationship from the very beginning.
They’ve been intentional ever since, building their love on friendship, faith, and trust.
Maddie describes knowing Ben was the one when she felt completely at home with him, able to be fully herself, just as she is with her identical twin sister. Ben’s answer was simpler: “I just knew.”
A Sacred Moment Before the Ceremony
When I walked into the bridal suite before the ceremony, I found a moment that took my breath away. The bridesmaids were surrounding Maddie, laying hands on her and praying over her. It wasn’t staged. They didn’t know I would see it or capture it.
It was simply who they are, women of faith lifting up their friend in prayer. That moment touched me to my core and set the tone for the entire day: prayer, presence, and God’s blessing woven into every detail.
Christian Wedding Ceremony Ideas That Inspire
This wedding was filled with Christ-focused moments that reflected Ben and Maddie’s desire to keep Christ at the center:
Instead of a traditional first look, they chose a first touch, where they shared private vows and prayed over one another.
During the ceremony, they braided a cord of three strands, symbolizing their marriage bound together with God’s love.
Their wedding rings were passed down the rows, prayed over by parents and grandparents, before the couple exchanged them. This ring blessing was such a powerful and unique moment.
At the guest book table, a Bible was set out for loved ones to highlight their favorite verses and sign their names.
These intentional touches didn’t just make the ceremony memorable; they made it worshipful.
Parents Who Poured Their Hearts Into the Day
One of the sweetest parts of this wedding was how involved both the bride’s and groom’s parents were. From the very beginning, they devoted themselves to creating a beautiful, meaningful day for their kids.
Every detail of the décor, white lace tablecloths, vases of wildflowers, the coffee bar, and cocktail hour snacks, was lovingly prepared by their families. The barn was transformed into a warm, welcoming space that reflected Ben and Maddie’s vision perfectly.
It was clear to every guest that this wedding wasn’t just about two people joining together. It was about two families surrounding them with love and support.
Rustic Barn Wedding Inspiration in Indiana
The Rustic Barn at Hopewell was the perfect backdrop for Ben and Maddie’s celebration.
With its natural setting, rustic charm, and plenty of space for family and friends, it checked every box for their vision of a wedding that was both intentional and joyful.
Even in the summer heat, laughter and love filled the barn.
From heartfelt toasts to joyful dancing, guests were part of something truly special.
A Reception Filled With Love and Service
After cutting their cake, Ben and Maddie did something unforgettable. They went table by table, personally serving cupcakes to each guest. This simple act of service reflected who they are as a couple, always putting others before themselves.
From start to finish, their reception was a mix of fun, heartfelt moments, and the kind of joy that only comes from God’s presence.
Final Thoughts
What stood out most about Ben and Maddie’s wedding wasn’t just the décor, the barn, or even the fun of the reception.
It was the way Christ was present in every moment. From the prayers over their rings to the vows spoken privately before the ceremony, their day was more than just a celebration. It was a testimony.
If you’re dreaming of a Christ centered barn wedding in Indiana, Ben and Maddie’s day at The Rustic Barn at Hopewell is proof that with faith, love, and the support of family, you can create a wedding that is unforgettable in every way.
This wedding was extra special for me. The bride’s mom is one of my besties, and I was honored to photograph the bride’s brother’s (Eli and Harleigh) wedding last summer. This family has established a tradition of love-filled, Christ-focused weddings! Check out Eli and Harleigh’s wedding post from their wedding at The Willow Creek Barn outside of Frankfort, Indiana.
Indiana Wedding Photographer for Christ Centered Couples
Are you planning a Christ centered wedding in Indiana? I’m Heather Corbin, a Lafayette Indiana wedding photographer with nine seasons of experience capturing faith filled celebrations.
I specialize in photographing Catholic and Christian weddings, Purdue University graduations, and family legacies across Lafayette, West Lafayette, and the surrounding areas.
My heart is to create photographs that let you relive your love and the presence of God in every moment. If you’re looking for a photographer who will come alongside you with care, presence, and intentionality, I’d be honored to serve you.
Learn more about Heather Corbin Photography Wedding Services.
Enjoy Ben and Maddie’s Wedding photos:
Mr & Mrs Lahrman!
Bridal Party
Wedding Ceremony
Reception
