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Caylee & Andrew > Summer Wedding at Hawks Nest

Caylee and Andrew’s day at Hawk’s Nest, on the outskirts of Lexington in Winchester was nothing short of amazing! I have worked at this venue many times as a second shooter, but I was so excited that this time when I approached the ornate stone gates at the drive entrance it was as the main photographer. The familiar white barn awaited me at the end of the drive, as did an amazing, joyful day with delicate details and pops of pink hues.

Inside the white barn doors with modern black trim, I was greeted by the quiet calm before the wedding day began, as well as the sweet venue owner and coordinator! The finishing touches and florals were all being arranged. After Caylee and her sweet bridesmaids arrived…looking stunning after getting ready at an air bnb, I gathered all her details and began the flatlays. The florist was amazing and gave me an abundance of extra loose stems, which always makes such a huge difference! All the different shades of pink florals came perfectly together to tie in with the theme of the day. When it was time for Caylee to get into her dress all her girls were the best at hyping her up, you’d never know it was a smaller bridal party because they brought ALL the energy! When we captured some bridal portraits, Caylee couldn’t hold a serious face for too long, but in the absolute best way as she was full of anticipation for the day ahead.

Caylee and Andrew were waiting to see each other, so after some fun bridesmaid and groomsmen photos it was time for the ceremony! The tone was set from the very beginning when Andrew made his grand appearance dancing down the aisle and handing out high fives and fist bumps along the way. The ceremony was set up just in front of the classic black fence with a statement floral arrangement on the arch that stood against the rolling green Kentucky fields. White flower petals were sprinkled down the sides of the aisle elevating the scene even more! In addition to Andrew’s entrance there were several other unique touches. Caylee’s dogs were very important to her and made several appearances– the first being when her mom and stepdad walked them down the aisle. The way Andrew looked at Caylee in the ceremony is the epitome of what every girl dreams of, really the way he looked at her down the aisle and consistently throughout the entire day was precious. Another favorite moment of mine took place in the ceremony was when the officiant had the bride and groom pause to look around and take in the moment, their closest friends and family staring back at them brimming with support and celebration. When it was finally time to proceed back down the aisle the joy Caylee and Andrew shared said it all.

We photographed family portraits next, with the dogs hopping in a few more too! After taking some bridal party photos with dreamy light surrounding everyone, the couple and I made our way back toward the front of the expansive property. We had to stop as we reached the front when I discovered an ideal spot with golden light filtered through a tree overhead and the white barn exterior in the side of the frame. This is seriously my new favorite spot at Hawk’s Nest!!! Caylee and Andrew continued to share the sweetest interactions as I prompted them during portraits, which made my job easy! It was almost time for the bridal party entrances and the scene was set for the reception. The back barn doors opened up to the CUTEST bar cart/trailer, Set the Bar completed with a custom menu named after Caylee’s dogs who were once again getting a moment of appreciation on this day. The summer backyard feel continued with outdoor games like cornhole and jenga!

As the reception commenced there were several sweet speeches and dances to come. Caylee’s mom shared anecdotes that had everyone laughing! The bride and groom table had a subtle ambience with a generous flower display and candles for soft lighting. We had saved the tree-line drive, a staple of Hawk’s Nest for last, as we ventured out for sunset photos. I love incorporating more movement at sunset and Caylee’s dress bounced beautifully in agreement as they ran hand in hand. We made the most of the golden light capturing more stunning moments. Just before heading back into the barn, I had to get a few of Andrew and Caylee with their bar cart, featuring her reception dress change! The bow detail as she leaned against the bar was too much to handle!! As reception events came to a close it was almost time to light the sparklers. First, the bride and groom had chosen to share a private last dance. The wedding industry focuses a lot on firsts, but I hope last dances are here to stay. It’s such a sweet intimate moment to soak in the end of this day marking a new season. The sparkler send-off completed this evening perfectly and I loved that instead of going straight to a vehicle they spent time hugging the family and friends who were seeing them off.

Caylee and Andrew, I have loved getting to connect with you through this process!! Please enjoy some more of my favorites from every part of your day!