Historic Southern Railway Knoxville Wedding - Emily + Hayden
We have had so many amazing weddings over the past year, but this one was even more significant because of my relationship with Emily and Hayden. They met in high school at Hardin Valley Academy in Knoxville, and these two—the true representation of high school sweethearts—have been together ever since. Emily and Hayden are extra special to me because I actually taught them both at that very school where they first started dating, and I got to witness their relationship blossom first as their teacher and subsequently through social media once they graduated. To say that we were thrilled to be chosen to capture their day is an understatement, as we were absolutely elated about the opportunity to witness this relationship come full circle.
Emily and Hayden’s day was in the most perfect way a true celebration. From the second we arrived to the bride and bridesmaids chowing down on some chips and sandwiches to the groom and groomsmen singing and dancing, we knew this was going to be a super fun and relaxing day (cue the surprise Lord of the Rings groom’s cake for Hayden and the adorable “He’s her Lobster” cake topper inspired by their love for the show Friends).
Emily and Hayden chose to do a first look along the line of locomotives at the Historic Southern Railway, but having both grown up in Knoxville and attending the University of Tennessee, it was also important for them to have photos taken downtown with the classic Tennessee Theatre sign (and these turned out to be our favorites despite us having to block traffic). The love these two share is unmistakable; you could see it in the joy on their faces as they strolled down the street together; you could feel it at the ceremony when the most genuine tears ran down both Hayden’s and Emily’s cheeks; you could hear it in the laughter and memories shared throughout the day by not only this amazing couple but also their closest, lifelong friends and family. One of the most endearing moments, however, came during the ceremony as the couple combined soil from their family homes to a tree that they watered together and could plant at their own home. It was truly a moment of unity not only for the two but a symbolic representation of the two families coming together as well.
We can’t say enough positive things about these two or their insanely beautiful day. Emily and Hayden danced the night away with their guests, who showed us some of the best dance moves we’ve yet to see at a reception. We can’t help but smile as we scroll through these moments from this downtown wedding, and we hope you feel the same way.
Venue: Historic Southern Railway Station | Day of Coordination: All About Weddings | Videographer: Sweet Tea Productions | DJ and Lighting: Ogle Entertainment and Light Design | Catering and Bartender: Rosa’s Catering | Officiant: Chuck O’Connor with Sensational Ceremonies | Cake: Catie Cakes | Photo Booth: Oh Snap Knoxville | Hair and Makeup: Bangs and Blush | Bridal Bouquet: Wade Floral Company | Dress Shop: White Lace and Promises | Rentals: Anderson Party Rental
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Engagement - Britni + Andrew | Charleston Wedding Photographer
First opened to visitors in the 1870s, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens in Charleston, South Carolina, boasts a gorgeous natural setting with an array of plants and flowers, beautiful animals freely roaming the property, and, of course, the well-known picturesque Spanish moss covered oaks so distinctive to this southern city. We were thrilled when Britni and Andrew decided to do their engagement photos here while they were in town for a wedding and asked us to capture these special memories for them.
This couple was initially reluctant to admit their feelings for one another despite constantly being together and finding excuses to be alone (like needing help with Christmas shopping). That all changed, however, the day Britni was scheduled to leave for basic duty. The two finally confessed that they knew this could be something truly special, and although they had to spend time apart, just like a classic love story, the two wrote letters to one another with updates and sweet sentiments, stressing how much they missed each other during her time away. When Britni returned home, the two were inseparable. Andrew calls Britni his best friend, and the two are ready to begin this new adventure together as husband and wife.
A breathtaking garden setting at Magnolia Plantation meshed flawlessly with Britni's flowing white dress and her feminine pink floral printed skirt, and we loved Andrew's choice to wear suspenders. So classic. These two were all smiles throughout the session, and the genuine reactions and laughter they shared are our favorite parts of this shoot. Join us as we whisk you away to romantic Charleston for this lovely engagement.
Norris Lake Wedding - Amber + Nathan
You may remember Amber and Nathan from their amazing Cincinnati engagement featured previously on our blog, but today, we have the honor of sharing the highlights of their wedding day with you.
This elegant and intimate affair took place alongside Norris Lake in private homes rented not only for the ceremony and reception but also for their guests to stay comfortably pre and post wedding. We loved the spacious rooms in the three level homes as they provided the perfect setting for some getting ready photos with the bride, groom, and their friends, but the gorgeous stairways amongst the wooded shoreline down to the lake were truly the standout. In fact, Amber and Nathan's guests were seated on various levels as they watched the ceremony that took place atop one of the docks.
The day was all about family and friends, and this relaxed couple made it a priority to spend time with their loved ones despite the hustle and bustle of the day. From the perfect place settings, to the always delicious Big Fatty's catering, and the gorgeous florals from Echelon, every detail was perfectly planned and executed. We loved the incorporation of shades of pink combined with navy to tie in a nautical element.
The most memorable moment of the day, however, occurred at the end of the evening when the bride and bridesmaids decided to trash their dresses. This only reinforced the carefree vibe thought the day, and we gazed on as Amber playful pushed Nathan into the lake as well.
We cannot say enough about this sweet, fun loving couple, and we are so thrilled to share these memories with you today. Congratulations, again, Amber and Nathan.
Dress - Donna Salyers Fabulous Bridal; Essense of Australia | Bridesmaids Dresses - Azazie | Venue - Private residence on Norris Lake | Catering - Big Fattys Catering | Dessert - Dale's Fried Pies | Flowers - Echelon Florist | Rentals - All Occasions Knoxville
