As a photographer, what is the best birthday gift you could get? (Besides maybe a 1 million dollar Nikon gift card) I would say it is being asked to shoot a wedding! Especially when it is your first wedding outside of Oklahoma. Well, that is exactly what I got to do this year and I am honored and very grateful to have had the opportunity to meet this beautiful couple, and document their wedding day through photographs.
The wedding was held in Downtown Franklin, Tennessee. (and yes, it is important that you capitalize the "D" in Downtown, Franklin's Downtown is worthy of the capitol, trust me) The venue was a Franklin First United Methodist Church and the history of this church was so apparent and beautiful. It was built in its current location in 1871. The groomsmen were hanging around in this parlor type room when I arrived and I loved the vintage old school vibe coming from these dapper young men in their tuxes in this almost 200 year old room.
We started photos with the guys. Galen and his buddies were troopers to stay outside in the Tennessee humidity on a June evening in those tuxes.
And had a really good sense of humor about it, as you can see...
As the ladies finished getting ready, I moved on to some detail shots of the Bride's beautiful bouquet.
That moment when the bride's girls gush over her beauty and she feels so special, loved, and amazing is just the best. I over heard that Roxanne made her own veil, which makes ME gush even more! I love that! It was now time for Roxanne to see her groom before the ceremony...
Can I just say, that whoever decided that is "first look" thing should happen has my upmost respect and props. How wonderful is it for the bride and groom to see each other and really soak in the moments just before becoming husband and wife TOGETHER. I love it. And I felt very privileged to be a part of this moment for them.
After the first look, we continued with some Bride and Groom Portraits. We went over near a window on the side of the church, and the first thing the groom asked me is if we could do some photos with him kneeling in front of his bride. (Hold it together Heather, no tears, NO tears. Professional, all the way!) I agreed that was a terrific idea, and I think the images we got from that moment are very special and precious.
After I pried Galen from Roxanne's side, we were able to start some photos with Roxanne and her bridesmaids. I love the joy and lightheartedness that bridesmaids can bring to the situation. These girls were a joy to be around and their beauty was oh so radiant.
Roxanne's sister was her Maid of Honor, and having only one younger sister myself, I enjoyed watching them interact and share in the joy of the moment together. Plus, her sister just graduated college in Oklahoma (which is where MY sister currently resides) and therefore their connection was a special one for me to document. (LOVE YOU MY SISTER! MISS YOU!)
OK, so I have 4 kiddos. And trust me, the break I get from them while I am on a job is well needed. But being a mom and doing this job just draws me to those sweet kiddos playing the role of flower girl and ring bearer. These two girls were so chill and so sweet and were fully enjoying their twirly skirts, as they should be.
After the ceremony it was time for the whole wedding party to get in on the photo action.
They were so bummed about it.
Seriously, I wish they could have loosened up just a bit for me.
Oh well.
Everyone headed to the reception, and it was time for some Roxanne and Galen after wedding portraits in a beautiful garden area that they had in mind to do their photos. The sun was almost down and the heat humidity had traded places with a beautiful breeze. It was pretty much perfect. I love this part. The ceremony is over and done, and now they can sigh relief and enjoy each other's presents (with a camera close by) as husband and wife in those first few hours of their married life. The contentment is evident on their faces, and it is a beautiful thing to document.
Pause for a dress shot. SO stunning.
To speak only from a creative mind for a minute, I super loved the colors in this shot. The yellow building behind them and the turquoise bench, and the natural greenery surrounding. My goodness, Downtown Franklin, you have my heart.
And that was a wrap on post wedding couple photos.
We then headed to Vanderbilt Legends Club for the reception.
I am not a golfer, but I can tell you that this place made me wish I was. It was beautiful and right at sunset the evening could not be more perfect.
Roxanne and Galen, again thank you for allowing me to share in your perfect day...
"As you travel life together, may God guide you on your way, And bring you newfound joy in each other, day by day …
May your home be graced with peace, may your sharing know no bounds, May your friendship know full measure in this lifetime love you’ve found …
And as your closeness deepens, may each moment be the start of life lived hand-in-hand, and love lived heart-to-heart."
... Heather
