We met up with Alex and Lauren on a sunny morning this Spring to capture their engagement photos in Atlanta’s Westside. When we chatted about location, shooting around Alex and Lauren’s stomping grounds felt right. Not only are we capturing their love story together, but also the setting that is so familiar to their life together - which makes it that much sweeter. After deciding to meet in the morning to beat the worst of the southern heat and humidity, we started our photo session while the city was still waking up. It’s always so much fun hanging out with couples and getting to know them before we capture their wedding, and Alex and Lauren’s personalities had us laughing the entire time. Not only has this couple weathered quite a few storms together already, but they’re planning a wedding in the midst of a pandemic and somehow still smiling and staying positive. That’s love, y’all. Keep on scrolling to see a few of our favorites from the engagement session!
Jon and Ashley's Backyard Wedding with a View
It’s not everyday you get to capture a friend’s wedding, but this was extra special, because we were surrounded by friends at this wedding. The bride, the groom, the guests, the families. Friends all around! Jon and Ashley’s wedding was in a beautiful backyard, tucked into the side of a hill with a sweeping view of the mountains in the distance. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect, either. It’s like God knew Ashley and Jon needed a beautiful day, because that’s exactly what they got. A constant breeze kept things cool, and the day greeted us all with sunshine and blue skies.
The wedding itself was simple, intimate, and meaningful in all the ways. Jon and Ashley stood in front of a floral draped cross as they exchanged promises, guests looked on from rows of white chairs, and the gorgeous view set a perfect backdrop. After the ceremony, guests gathered around tables under white tents for the reception, with pops of pale pink florals and a delicious aroma from the taco bar. We snuck Jon and Ashley away for some golden hour photos, and after twirling in the most brilliant sunset, the dancing continued and a mouthwatering layered cookie cake was cut and served. As the evening came to a close, guests lined up with sparklers and the happy newlyweds made their exit.
We are so happy to share a few favorites from their wedding with you, now. Take a look and see for yourself why backyard weddings are the best!
Stephen & Katie's Winter Wedding
We stepped inside Grace Community Church on Stephen and Katie's wedding day and followed the laughter downstairs, around the hall, and into the room where the girls were getting ready. Makeup and hair were in progress, dresses were steaming, and everyone was chattering away. For some reason, that first impression captures perfectly the mood of Katie and Stephens wedding day: JOY. Pure, overflowing, uninterrupted joy. Isn't that how weddings are supposed to be?
As the ceremony began, we stood with our cameras clicking away as Katie floated down the aisle in a wispy, sparkling dress. Stephen couldn't look away from his bride, and there wasn't a dry eye in the room. Christmas trees twinkled behind the two as they exchanged vows, laughing about giving each other "all" their possessions and finally sealing it all with a kiss. The guests cheered, fists pumped in the air, and it was official.
The party wasn't over though. Following the ceremony, guests and wedding party headed over to a reception at Whitlock Inn, complete with an overflowing buffet, bar on the porch, and lots and lots of dancing inside. Stephen and Katie's exit was accented by ribbons waving around them as they ran towards the limo. We couldn't have imagined a more perfect rainy winter wedding!
Matt & Courtney's Wedding at Sweet Meadow Farms
We're not sure if we've ever verbalized our idea of the perfect Fall wedding, but Matt and Courtney's wedding celebration at Sweet Meadow Farms in Tallapoosa Georgia raised the bar when it comes to our Autumn wedding dreams. Picture a gorgeous white barn, perfectly nestled between sunflower fields and a small pond. White pumpkins, string lights, eucalyptus, and flickering candles were everywhere, and a beautiful little greenhouse just footsteps from the bridal suite made for some gorgeous photos of the bride and groom. Basically, we fell in love.
Matt and Courtney's wedding was equal parts breathtaking and meaningful. Little details scattered throughout the day kept our cameras clicking, and Courtney's face as she walked down the aisle brought a hush to the whole room. We couldn't ask for a sweeter couple to work with, and so without further ado, we hope you enjoy this snippet from their wedding day (as much as we do)!
Vendors: Stylish Stems Atlanta, Tulla White, & White Magnolia Bridal.
Best wishes, Matt & Courtney!
Wedding Guest Group Photo | Tips & Tricks
We've talked with many couples who like this idea, but until this weekend, we never saw it actually done. And to be perfectly honest, it's a little bit of a feat to capture your entire guest list in one giant group photo. How on earth can you get everyone in one awesome photo without grumpy guests and a frustrated photographer? Here are a few tips to help you plan your GIANT group photo in a way that makes the whole process seamless and fun.
1. Communicate Clearly
The best idea we've seen for this is simple: Use your programs to communicate the timing and location for this group photo. Everyone will have one in hand, and if they haven't read it, we guarantee someone sitting next to them has. To top off the program communication, ask your officiant to reiterate this information at the end of the ceremony.
2. Photograph Early
Don't wait until the end of the reception to snap this group photo. Rallying the guests will get progressively more difficult, especially when some may have already started to leave. We suggest capturing this photo at the end of the ceremony. If there isn't a great location for a ceremony photo, plan it for early in the reception, and it never hurts to loop your DJ in for extra help in communicating this to guests.
3. Scout Locations
The best angle for a large group photo is .... drumroll ... ABOVE! Take a look at the locations available to you on your wedding day, and take note of any places where a photographer might be able to shoot from a window, balcony, staircase, or porch.
4. Make it Quick!
Don't drag it out. Know how you want your guests to pose, communicate this upfront, take some rapid fire photos, and let them get back to the party. This way you'll get their best smiles, best reactions, and a happier group photo.
Hats off to Theresa and David, whose wedding was our inspiration for this blog.
Got any other tips and tricks to share? We'd love to hear from you!