Reminiscing on this beautiful fall wedding day not only takes me back to these moments, but all the way back to middle school when I met Laura. We had lots of mutual friends and it’s always special to reconnect with people through this job. This wedding was authentically bohemian in an effortless kind of way. Laura’s stunning gown added to this whimsical feel and the warm fall color palette fit perfectly. This wedding took place at SMK Agricultural Venue. I have worked here a few times as a second shooter, and actually got to be at one of their first weddings. However, this was my first wedding of my own here and it was great to be greeted by the familiar faces of the sweet venue owners, and the horses too!
The venue featured remnants of fall leaves and horses cantering up and down the fence line amidst the glowing field.
Upon arriving, I was greeted by the girls in the bridal suite, which included another childhood friend. They had the cutest flannels on adding to the subtle fall theme and accents. Laura had all her details ready with some pretty florals for me– I can never have too much pampas grass or dried palm leaves!!! The guys arrived in a rush of excitement, as Jackson definitely had a group of hype-men by his side. This rambunctious group was full of energy in the best, most fun way!!! After Laura got in her dress it was time for first looks with her Dad and brothers. I loved the combined first look with all her brothers as they had the best reactions, and were ready with all the compliments for Laura.
After this and Jackson’s finishing getting ready touches, it was time for the first look everyone was most anticipating- the one where Laura and Jackson finally get to see each other. And yes, that did sound like the title of a Friends episode. Something really sweet they requested was a more private first look and space to read their vows just the two of them. So my second shooter and I kept our distance and I used a closer lens to still capture the moment. But the quiet reactions, soft expressions, and intimate words were just for them. I’ve always thought this was special when couples take a moment to just be truly present and soak in all the day holds. Once they concluded this moment in a sweet embrace, we went straight into portraits, as they were already standing in front of a brilliant reddish-orange tree.
The colors were so perfect. I actually took Laura and Jackson’s engagement photos at this venue so it was like practice for the real thing. They were just like naturals, maybe because that’s exactly the way their love appears – natural and effortless. Because of this previous experience, I knew we had to trek back to the entrances accented with a stone archway and more pretty fall colors along the tree-lined drive. It was worth the little drive and Laura and Jackson stood out perfectly against a sea of yellow and orange. After more portraits here it was time for bridal party photos. The way the rust colored bridesmaids dresses perfectly matched the orange tree by the fence line made for some of the dreamiest bridal party photos. And the groomsmen did not disappoint, as if they’d been saving all their energy and hype for exactly that moment.
At the ceremony the officiant happened to be a friend of mine and a pastor at my church, so that’s always nice to see familiar faces among the vendors. Jackson’s mom was my high school algebra teacher so that was a cool connection also. The ceremony was short and sweet, but true to Laura and Jackson. Their excitement was evident as they were announced husband and wife and made their way back down the aisle. Family photos are normally relatively uneventful but Laura’s grandma surprised us all by going to give her a kiss on the cheek–we thought–but before we knew it she planted it right on Laura’s mouth. Everyone was shocked and burst into laughter, Laura most surprised of course!
The day ended with a perfect reception inside SMK, one perk being the generous amount of room their dance floor provides. This was perfect for guests to party and dance the night away, the part I think this couple most anticipated! A nice touch at the reception was that the caterer was Olive Garden, as Laura and some of her bridal party had worked there for many years. Personal touches and nods like this are always a nice touch.
Laura and Jackson, thank you for having me capture your day! Hopefully you enjoy relieving your day and looking back on some of my favorites!!!
This day was made possible thanks to all these wonderful VENDORS:
Venue: SMK Agricultural Venue @smkvenue
Cake: Lilah’s Sassy Sweets
Donuts: Best donuts
Caterer: Olive Garden (Richmond)
Bride’s dress: Twirl @twirllex
Bridesmaid dresses: Baltic Born
Groom/groomsmen attire: Men’s Wearhouse
