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
The Concord Farmhouse Winter Wedding - Knoxville Wedding Inspiration
Winters in Tennessee are usually incredibly mild, but our first blustery, chilly, and overcast day of the season coincided with this session, our winter wedding inspiration styled shoot. Held at a local farmhouse, The ConcordFarmhouse as it has been named, we wanted to channel the rustic nature of the venue in styling elements while also ensuring wintery details were highlighted.
The farmhouse, built in 1905, sits on 2 ½ acres in the small town of Farragut within Knoxville. The home feels like a step into the country amidst a city setting as it surround by woods and features a classic Southern-style covered porch. The historic home contains many original finishes, and the owners also built much of the furniture displayed in the home, including the large over-sized farmhouse table styled for this shoot. Aside from the classic white exterior, towering white columns, and quaint green shutters, this house also boasts private gardens and a phenomenal ivy archway utilized in some of our shots.
The first decision we made regarding this inspiration were the gorgeous jewel tones that were incorporated in the floral, place settings, cake, and even the makeup. These hues evoked a winter vibe, and the copper accents through the handmade candle holders and mugs added a warmth and richness that made these colors pop even more. Lovely fur stoles paired perfectly with the flowing white Azazie gowns that allowed for graceful movement, and our groom’s navy suit featured a cozy tweed vest and tie necessary for a cool outdoor winter wedding. The rich black dahlias incorporated in the stunning bouquet and table garland also carried into the groom’s boutonniere, which was ornate but inherently masculine. Deep shades of red were also prominent on the handmade cooper calligraphy place cards at each guest’s seat. Plump berries on a spiced three-tiered naked cake and bright pink and red cranberries strewn along the table made up the other fresh elements along with deep purple plums as the centerpiece for each place setting. Fruit was another defining component of this inspiration, and we wanted all of the choices to feel like the perfect winter edibles.
These photos make us want to snuggle up with a warm drink, but we also wanted to convey a timeless elegance with a bit more dramatic look to welcome the colder weather. Rustic, simple, and classic, we hope this farmhouse styled shoot leaves our readers feeling inspired to embrace a winter wedding.
The Concord Farmhouse | Echelon Florist | Azazie | Unique Settings and Rentals | Whisk N' Batter | The Tristar Scribe | Regal Tuxedo | A Ribbon's Nest | Mrs. Box | Pier 1 Imports | The Find Lab | Off the Top Barbershop | The Hair Life by Elisha | Edienna Smith with Bluzybuffs | Ashley and Christina Harding
Gay Street & Downtown Knoxville Engagement - Kayla + Derick
"The best love is the kind that awakens the soul and makes us reach for more, that plants a fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. And that's what you've given me. That's what I'd hoped to give you forever." - Nicholas Sparks
Sometimes, there are people that you meet that make you have an immediate emotional reaction. You can actually feel the spark between the two, and it is just so blatantly obvious that they are madly in love. This is how we felt about our first encounter with Kayla and Derick in downtown Knoxville. These two beautiful people didn't need much directing as they just naturally gravitate towards each other, and we were so thrilled to be able to capture their energy as a couple in these images.
Kayla and Derick met at Lee University when Derick decided to make some life changes and move to a new school. The two were instantly attracted to one another, but they initially only interacted on social media. Eventually, Derick asked for Kayla's number, and they spent their first date chatting over coffee. Each says they fell for one another that night through their smiles and laughs. Derick's insanely romantic proposal was a scavenger hunt set up for Kayla including her sister as a driver, a playlist of all of their songs, clues that led her to all the places that are part of their love story, and a go pro to record it all. So thoughtful and endearing!
This engagement session took place along Gay street in downtown Knoxville--beginning at the Gay street bridge, moving to the iconic Tennessee sign, and wrapping up in Krutch Park and the surrounding streets. We are beyond ecstatic to share this couple's photos with you today, and we can't wait for their summer wedding next year at Black Fox Farms. Join us in giving Kayla and Derick your best wishes!
Ijams Nature Center Wedding - Angela + Jarryd
Angela and Jarryd's beautiful spring wedding took us all over downtown Knoxville, beginning at the always iconic and charming Oliver Hotel. We love the windows covered with white shutters in the historic hotel just around the corner from Knoxville's main square, and we decided to do an indoor first look along the stairwells lit by natural light from the large windows. Angela chose a non-traditional Grecian inspired silver gown, and we adored the pops of bright pink in her invitations, flowers, and even her lipstick.
The intimate outdoor ceremony took place at Ijams Nature Center under the floral covered arbor in a self-described "low-key" ceremony surrounded by family. Ijams always feels like a forest getaway with lush greenery and secret nooks for romantic couple's photos. The two walked down the aisle together, which we thought was super unique and the perfect way to show their commitment to each other. These two were all smiles throughout the ceremony, despite the unseasonably warm day, and we loved how playful they were with one another as we asked them chat about their relationship during some sweet couple's shots.
The final leg of the wedding day took us to Ruth's Chris Steak House where the couple had their reception. With delicious food and a downtown vibe, Ruth's Chris also has an amazing terrace available for such events that overlooks the remainder of Volunteer Landing and the Tennessee River. Adorable popcorn favors with Tennessee shaped chocolates were gifts for guests, a perfect combo of a sweet and salty treat for favors.
These two were all about having a casual wedding that was family oriented, but their big day was uniquely Angela and Jarryd with non-traditional details and endearing interactions with one another. We are so glad that they chose us to capture these moments for them, and we wish them all the best as Mr. and Mrs.
The Oliver Hotel | Ijams Nature Center | Ruth's Chris Steak House | Ruche | Tommy Hilfiger | Echelon Florist | Brandalyn Howard with Southern Belle | Minted | Fred Patterson | Robyn James Ensembles | All Occasions Party Rentals | Elite Limos
Knoxville Botanical Gardens Engagement - Kendall + Nathan
These two made the journey from Jefferson City to meet us at the always gorgeous Knoxville Botanical Gardens for this amazingly beautiful engagement. We hit it off with these two instantly, as we made a connection over their profession. Kendall is studying to become a teacher, and Nathan currently teaches history, which we truly respect and admire (as Jason is the son of a teacher and I'm a former teacher of 8 years).
We could not have styled these two any better had we chosen their outfits and accessories ourselves. Nathan's button up and gray pants (funny fact...we're pretty sure Jason had on the exact same pants while photographing this shoot) meshed perfectly with Kendall's phenomenal blush gown. The flattering cut and flowing fabric made this dress a perfect choice for a spring engagement and combined flawlessly with Kendall's touches of gold in her jewelry.
We truly enjoyed spending the evening with these two and getting to know them better, and we cannot wait for their wedding this June. We are so excited to share the memories created with these lovebirds, and we invite you to explore the gardens with us through this elegant engagement.
Knoxville Museum of Art Wedding - Miriam + Ryan
A beautiful two piece gown, the perfect accessories, touches of lavender, and a gorgeous handmade Chuppah were just a few of the memorable details of Miriam and Ryan's fall wedding, but it was the palpable love you could feel from everyone who shared in their day that truly made this event special.
The couple's big day took place at the perfect location for the two, the Knoxville Museum of Art. This venue boasts two gorgeous courtyards and a modern, sleek style ideal for such an affair. The two were wed outside under a beautifully crafted Chuppah, a canopy characteristic of Jewish wedding ceremonies. The ceremony incorporated various poems read by friends and family, and a friend was granted the honor of marrying the two, which made these nuptials even more meaningful; the two shared personalized vows before celebrating their matrimony by breaking the glass and sharing a kiss as guests shouted, "Mazel Tov."
We are so thrilled to share Miriam and Ryan's wedding with you today, and we wish them nothing but happiness as they begin their journey as husband and wife.
A great day is even better with such amazing vendors!
Venue- Knoxville Museum of Art | Dress and Bridesmaids' Dresses- BHLDN | Suits- The Black Tux | Catering- Calhoun's Flowers- Jennifer Roden | Chuppah- Gerry Moll | Officiant- Elizabeth Phillips | Chairs- All Occasions Party Rentals | Film Lab- The Find Lab
