Wooo! Sorry for the hiatus, but I’m back on the wedding grind after a boudoir break!
Shelby and Kory’s wedding was a beautiful affair held at the lovely Grace Gardens in El Paso, Texas. I was so happy to photograph Shelby and Kory’s wedding. We had so much fun at their smoke bomb engagement session that I couldn’t wait for the wedding!
Michelle, or Shelby as her friends call her, was mingled with her friends and was doing some last-minute checking of the blocks for the day when I arrived. Some of the other bridesmaids were already finishing up with hair and make-up. Shelby’s little Yorkie relished all the attention that she could get, which was a lot. 😉 She’s a cutie!
And of course, there were mimosas!
All the ladies primped and prepped for the big day ahead. Evidence of the night before, showed that the ladies had watched a modern-day classic for every bride and her entourage…Bridesmaids! Also personal favorite movie of mine. Who doesn’t love that movie?!
Shelby’s bridesmaids and mother helped her get into her dress and fasten her shoes. As the finishing touches were completed, the ladies piled into the limo that was waiting outside and headed to Grace Gardens.
Kory and his groomsmen had a laid-back morning getting ready and doing guy things.
Beer? Check.
Whiskey? Check.
They helped each other straighten ties, button vests and fasten cufflinks. When they arrived at the wedding venue all the guys, but especially Kory made their grand exits from the limo all looking like celebrities!
When it came time for the ceremony to begin, Kory escorted his mother down the aisle and then took his place at the alter to wait for his bride.
Shelby was escorted by both her mother and father. I saw a wave of emotion flash across Kory’s face in seeing his bride for the first time.
The Officiant did a wonderful job mixing humor and the serious commitment they were making to one another. They tied a cord of three strands to signify their union with each other and with God. The rings were exchanged and as they were pronounced husband and wife, Kory passionately kissed his bride.
After the ceremony, we headed to one of the many pecan orchards in the area to take the couples’ portraits. Fortunately, there was a farmer working, so we asked if we could take some pictures among the rows of symmetrical pecan trees that were full and green. The couple looked so happy during the brief moment away from the crowd of guests. They laughed and joked and enjoyed each other’s company.
We all headed back to Grace Gardens to kick off the reception. The reception tent looked soft and beautiful. Light pink roses were on every table.
I had to sneak Kory and Shelby out to the fields behind the venue for one last photo opp, because the most beautiful sunset was happening. I can’t miss the opportunity for some beautiful sunset photos!
The party kicked off as the wedding party and newlyweds were announced into the reception. Kory and Shelby shared their sweet first dance to That Look by Aaron Watson.
Sidenote: I swear everyone in El Paso is a good dancer. Young and old were on the dance floor having a blast and making my dance skills look laughable! (But my lovely second shoot and I tried anyway!)
‘Spirited’ is the word that I would describe the bouquet and garter toss! Finally! Guests that would get into the fun of this tradition. I feel like single people don’t really jump for that bouquet and garter anymore! I suspect it has a correlation with people getting married later and later these days. What do you think? Fortunately, the singles at this wedding brought their A-game!
The couple’s closest friends and family toasted the couple’s happy union. Guests continued to dance and party up till midnight. When it was time to wrap up the party, guests lined up with glow sticks and Kory and Shelby ran through them and were whisked off to the honey moon to live happily ever after!
Kory is currently overseas on a deployment and I know that Shelby is missing him like crazy! So, send your blessings to them as they go through this difficult time apart!
And keep in touch because they’re headed to Hawaii next! 😉
Cheers to Shelby and Kory!
Venue: Grace Gardens
Dress: Ella Blu | Casablanca Designs
Bridesmaid Dresses: Ella Blu
Make Up Artists: DeShea Exclusive
Hair: BlondeTourage
Tuxes: Mens Wearhouse
Wedding Cake: Kimberly Trujillo {915-603-2726}
Florist: Grace Gardens
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