Something old, something new.  Something borrowed, something blue.  This age-old tradition represents continuity; optimism for the future; borrowed happiness; and purity, love, and fidelity.  Caitlyn’s mom gave her a personalized handkerchief for her something new and something blue.  Right before the ceremony, she tied the blue ribbon on her bouquet.  For her something old, Caitlyn had a pin that belonged to her great great grandmother.  Her something borrowed was a ring from her matron of honor.  Each item was carefully chosen for this special occasion.

Before we took bridesmaid photos, we made sure Wil was no where in sight so that he would not get a glimpse of his bride before it was time.  As the girls were getting into position, one of them spotted Wil coming down the driveway on a golf cart.  Within a split second, all the bridesmaids had formed a human wall around Caitlyn to keep her hidden.  The swift action rivaled that of the secret service when protecting the President.

Shortly after, Caitlyn’s secret plan started to unfold.  She called me weeks before the wedding to plan a surprise first look with Wil.  While we were taking his individual portraits, Caitlyn was hiding behind the bushes waiting for the perfect moment.  Once she was in position, I instructed Wil to turn to his left.  Keep turning.  Keep turning.  Then he saw her.  Their eyes locked and he smiled from ear to ear.  It was a sweet surprise!

In case you needed another reason to fall in love with their wedding, the boutonnières were made of duck feathers.  While that is unique, what makes them special is that the feathers are from wood ducks that Wil shot himself.  I love that they incorporated the groom’s interests in their wedding details!

But, wait!  There’s more!  They ended on a high note with sky lanterns!  Guests gathered around and lit their lanterns.  The fire created hot air, which filled the paper and formed a mini hot air balloon.  The sky lanterns were slowly released and floated together in the distance.  It was impossible not to marvel at how every lantern seemed to follow the same path. 

Caitlyn and Wil, thank you so much for inviting me to capture such an exciting day in your lives!  I enjoyed getting to know both of you during your engagement session and seeing your love story unfold.  Your wedding day was so much fun, but the best is yet to come.  I hope you have a great time honeymooning in Belize! 

The Creative Team:

Photography | Ashley Brooke Photography

Second Photographer | Ali Payne

Videography | Aly Hughes Photography

Ceremony Venue | CME Church

Reception Venue | Marengo House

Floral Design | Mary Elizabeth Giles Switzer

DJ | Don and Michelle Johnson

Bride’s Cake | Joyce’s Catering

Groom’s Cake | Peggy McKinney

Catering | Joyce’s Catering

Hair Stylist | H&M by Caitlin L Short

Makeup Artist | H&M by Caitlin L Short

Bride’s Dress | Ella Rosa by Kenneth Winston from Bridal Boutique and Tux Shoppe

Bridesmaid Dresses | Kanali K from Bridal Boutique and Tux Shoppe

Groom and Groomsmen | Stephen Geoffrey from Bridal Boutique and Tux Shoppe