Summer Wedding at Black Fox Farms - Kayla + Derick
When we think about Kayla and Derick’s wedding, a few words come to mind—sweet, endearing, sentimental, and romantic. These two met in college, and although it took them a little while to come together as a couple, once they did, there was no separating them. Kayla and Derrick consistently use the word “blessed” to describe their feelings about finding each other, and they see God as the center of their relationship, which was abundantly evident on their sunny wedding day at Black Fox Farms.
A picturesque wedding venue amidst a working nursery, Black Fox Farms features rustic touches that are also incredibly elegant in a serene setting. A beautiful pondside ceremony site under a wooden arbor is where Kayla and Derick became Mr. and Mrs., and their reception was housed in the venue’s expansive barn that also has an outdoor deck overlooking the farm. One of the most impressive aspects of Black Fox, however, is the fact that it is an actual nursery, which means they provide beautiful lighted trees and shrubs as well as actual plants and flowers that compliment the couple’s wedding colors. We also adored the outdoor space with a canopy of twinkling lights that served as an extension of Kayla and Dericks’s reception space as well as a backdrop for their sparkler exit.
Some of the most endearing moments we have ever seen at a wedding occurred on this sunny, summer day. Both Kayla and Derick gave wedding day gifts (via delivery by family members) to one another to celebrate their union; however, the surprise journal that each shared really touched our hearts. Without knowing that the other had done the same thing, both Kayla and Derick wrote entries over the course of their engagement to give to each other on their wedding day. Talk about a special moment! Both were tearful as they realized that their soon to be spouse had created the same thoughtful gift that each could cherish forever and look back on later in life as a memory of their journey. Supportive friends and family, who showed an outpouring of love to the two, surrounded Kayla and Derick on their day, but it was Derrick’s brother’s speech at the reception that brought all of their guests to tears. It was simply the sweetest moment to witness.
If you can’t tell already, these two really left a lasting impression on us. Kayla and Derick were so gracious, and they truly embrace positivity and humble spirits that are evident from the first meeting. We are so thrilled that they chose us to capture all their memories, and we hope this outpouring of love moves you today, too.
Venue: Black Fox Farms | Dress and Suit Shop: Ever After Bridal & Formal Wear | Dress Designer: Maggie Sottero | Floral: Isbill Floral Gallery | Coordinator: Kendra Collins of Ever After Bridal & Formal Wear | DJ: Sound Force | Rentals: Bradley Rentals | Film Lab: The Find Lab
The Cardinal's Nest Wedding Venue and Inspiration
We were so honored to have the opportunity to photograph this beautiful new wedding venue, The Cardinal's Nest, alongside some of the area's most talented vendors and fellow photographers. If you haven't checked out this venue nestled in the Smoky Mountains, we are bringing you a sneak today. Enjoy!
Venue: The Cardinal's Nest | Stationery: Custom Love Gifts | Floral Design: Melissa Timm Designs | Gowns and Accessories: Lillian Ruth Bride | Men's Attire: Regal Tuxedo | Hair and Makeup: Southern Sirens | Cake: The Bees Knees Bakery | Lighting: Sequoyah Entertainment | China Rentals: Event Rentals by Rothchild | Linen Rentals: Campbell Party Rentals | Coordination: The Bride Link | Models: Talisa Cantrell and Steven McNelly
The Carriage House Bridal - Kendall
Rain, rain, go away. Come again another day.
That's what we were singing the week of Kendall's bridal session, as we had to re-schedule due to rainy conditions on our original date and an additional day we chose. The forecast called for rain for days in a row following that, and Kendall's wedding was fast approaching; we decided to take our chances on a day that turned out (very luckily) to be perfectly sunny until the end of our time with Kendall when we still managed to grab some dramatic shots of our bride under the covered patio with the rain falling behind her. We were even greeted by a huge rainbow as we snapped the last few shots at The Carriage House, the venue also serving as the site for Kendall and Nathan's wedding (look out for an upcoming feature of their big day as well).
Although the weather was not originally on our side, we believe things happen for a reason, and in this case, we were so grateful that Mother Nature held off long enough for us to capture these magazine worthy images of Kendall. Enjoy this bridal at The Carriage House!
Knoxville Botanical Gardens Bridal - Alisha
A lush garden setting, a pink floral headpiece, crystal embellished Badgley Mischka heels, and a stunning Essense of Australia gown with champagne undertones comprised the details of this bridal, but Alisha's natural beauty is what really made this session a standout (only enhanced by gorgeous hair from Whitney Evans Beauty and stunning makeup by Chelsey Hobbs). The Knoxville Botanical Gardens was the setting for this pre-wedding shoot with our gorgeous bride, and we couldn't have been happier with her choice to meet us here. With stone pathways, a new area that feels like an entrance to a secret garden, and rustic balcony walkway, KBG feels like a blooming getaway considering it is just outside of downtown Knoxville, and this background only added to the elegance portrayed in these images.
Alisha's bridal session was actually a gift from her bridesmaids, and we adored them for choosing to provide her with such a meaningful gift. Despite having to re-schedule twice due to rain as well, this this sunny evening around sunset turned out to be absolutely perfect. We are always excited when our brides opt for this extra shoot because it allows us to take a ton of additional bridal photos in a low pressure and much less stressful situation than the wedding day, and we can get a little more creative with posing (which I'm sure Alisha can attest can be a leg and ab workout as well).
Take a trip to this garden retreat with us today through Alisha's bridal, and look out for an upcoming feature of Alisha and Evan's Rivershack Farm wedding.
| Knoxville Botanical Gardens | Essense of Australia | Monica's Bridal | Whitney Evans Beauty | Chelsey Hobbs | Melissa Timm Designs |
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
Wedding Planning Tips - Part 2: Booking Your Vendors
You're engaged! Congratulations! Now, it's time to start planning for your big day and reaching out to the people that you'd like to be part of creating your wedding vision. As part two of our tips series, we'd like to share some advice about the initial steps you should take in planning and communicating with potential vendors before booking.
Tip 1: Know the Details to Share
We have a ton of couples reach out to us immediately after they are engaged, and it is always great to be ahead of the curve when selecting vendors as many tend to book dates up to a year in advance. The single most important thing to have determined, however, prior to booking any of your vendors is a firm wedding date. Asking for a photographer or other vendor, for pricing information to get a feel for what is out there and doable for your budget is acceptable, but without a specific date, you won't be able to book with the company and may be disappointed to find out later that they are unavailable. Generally, most vendors will also want to know your venue as well as some may charge additional fees for travel if the site is outside of their normal coverage area. So, set your date as quickly as possible, and go ahead and book your venue to get the ball rolling for your other inquiries.
Tip 2: Respond and Just Ask
Any time I send an email, whether personal or business related, I am always impressed when the recipient responds quickly. This is something we really strive to excel at in our correspondence with clients, and it's one aspect of our communication that our couples really value. This is just as important when requesting information from a photographer, caterer, or venue, just as examples, from a client perspective. We always appreciate when a couple gets back to us, even if it's just to say that our pricing does not work in their budget. That's ok, and there are never hard feelings on our end. We are grateful for the response, and we both know that it's nothing personal or that they don't love our work. The other aspect of the pricing conversation is also being willing to ask what a particular vendor can do within your budget or requesting if there is a package or option that may suit your needs better. I always think, what's the worst that someone can say? No? I can handle that. If you really want to book a particular service or company, just ask, and the vendor will let you know if your vision is doable or not for them in your price range.
Tip 3: Keep an Open Mind
Don't forget one important tip from our last blog as well; although pricing and budgets are, of course, important, many vendors want to get to know you a little better and build a relationship with you also. Sharing details and information about yourselves as a couple and being specific about your dreams for your wedding allow us to have some insight about who you are and if we are a good fit for capturing your big day. Quality work, goods, and services may cost more than you anticipate when starting your wedding planning, and although you should stick to a budget, make sure you are considering other aspects of what a vendor can offer including experience and the overall vibe you want to achieve for your wedding.
Thinking about the planning process from a vendor perspective can only help you achieve a more relaxing and smooth experience for your wedding day. To summarize, choosing your date and selecting your venue are usually the first decisions to make. Be open to corresponding with vendors openly and honestly and asking questions you may have. Finally, consider all aspects of what a potential vendor has to offer as part of their pricing. Referrals from friends and family are always meaningful, as personal experience is definitely valuable, and meeting with vendors in person to discuss options can always help you evaluate the connection you have with one another, which is another important factor to consider. Your wedding day should reflect your values and your style, and carefully choosing your vendors will ensure that you have the best, most memorable day possible.
Dara's Garden | Whitestone Country Inn | Spence Cabin | Knoxville Botanical Gardens | Volunteer Princess Cruises | Walnut Hill Farm | The Barn at Living Water | Ijams Nature Center | Melissa Timm Designs | May Flowers | Echelon Florist | Grafe Studio Floral | Beez and Blossoms | Axel Marshall Productions | Rellek Films | Rivershack Farmhouse | Stylebar Chattanooga | Melissa Cubberley Makeup Artistry | Whitney Evans Beauty | Organic Infusion | Olde Enzor Lane | Magpies | Z Studio Weddings & Events | First Fruits Catering