photography – Page 2 – Jess Jones Photos Blog

Chad + Lindsay | Oakhurst Farms | West Point, GA

Chad and Lindsay shared a wonderful wedding at the gorgeous Oakhurst Farms in West Point, GA. The venue is surrounded by rolling green hills dotted with cows that meander the property. There are flowing willow trees on the edges of the pond and yellow sunflower fields. The venue is privately secluded in the Georgia country side.

I found the bride and her bridesmaids getting ready upstairs in the bridal suite. The bride’s dress, shoes and jewelry sparkled. Downstairs the reception room at Oakhurst was decorated with gorgeous fall flowers and crystal vases on the round tables waiting for guests to arrive.

The groom and his groomsmen were found watching football as they put their suits on. They may or may not have been prepping with some Crown apple shots. I was instructed not to tell the bride. So, Lindsay, the guys were totally sober pre-wedding. 😉

Lindsay’s mother and bridesmaids helped her get into her stunning Winnie Coutour dress. It fit her like a glove. (but not like an OJ glove!) The bride looked perfect. The couple’s son, Brantley, ran into the room and greeted his mom with a big hug after Chad had helped get his little suit on! (a regular suit, not his Iron man suit unfortunately) Swoon!

The bride and groom opted to share a first look before the ceremony to get the nerves out and relax the rest of the day. So, after the group photos Lindsay made her way out to see Chad for the first time on their wedding day. They were both so eager to see one another. I loved seeing their excitement. Chad walked up behind Lindsay and tapped her on the shoulder and as she slowly turned around their reactions were priceless.

Even more priceless, was watching them read their letters to one another. I was crying!

After most of the initial butterflies had flown away. It was time for the ceremony to get underway. Chad and Brantley waited at the altar as Lindsay’s father escorted her down the stone aisle as their loved ones looked on.

They shared a lovely ceremony as their favorite people stood beside them and sat before them. They were pronounced husband and wife and shared that sweet first kiss. The couple cheered and practically skipped back down the aisle.

The DJ and the Chris Collins band were setting the mood as the guests arrived into the reception. The wedding party and the newlyweds waited upstairs to be announced into the party. The guests cheered and clapped as Lindsay and Chad made their way down the staircase and into their first dance.

After a delicious dinner was served the bride danced with her father and then Lindsay, Chad and their son Brantley shared a sweet and tearful family dance together.

The bride’s cousin gave a beautiful toast and made mention of their late aunt who clearly was missed by a lot of people on that special day.

Lindsay and Chad cut the cake and sweetly fed each the cake. Smart man! When it came time to toss the bouquet and garter the singles gathered round and were ready to pounce! One of the groomsmen made a valiant slide effort to make his catch.

At this point the bride had already changed into her party dress that showed off her ahhh-mazing legs! And fun story about this party dress…it was borrowed from one of my previous brides, Amanda Cooper! The strapless dress with fluffy white feathers for a skirt is the ideal wedding party dress and I love that it had a previous story. Amanda danced the night away in it and so did Lindsay. One more borrow and it could become the Sisterhood of the traveling Party Dress!

It was time to party! The Chris Collins Band got the party started and everyone was on their feet dancing. The DJ had all the ladies doing the Wobble and having a blast.

Once the party was winding down the couple made their final exit through their guests holding the dazzling sparklers.

The Edenfields had a gorgeous wedding and I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of this special day! Wishing these two the best of what life has to offer them in their new chapter!

#edenfieldpartyofthree

The fabulous vendors:
Venue: Oakhurst Farms
Event Coordinator: Kristin Gallatin (Gagallatin@gmail.com)
Hair and Make up: Robyn Cook at Jean Eve Salon
Dress: Winnie Coutour
Bridesmaids dresses: David’s Bridal
Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse
Cake: Sue Anne Rathel
Florist: Denhams Florist
Band: Chris Collins’s band
Minister- Frank Macon
Videographer: Brett Wink 7th Wink productions

Amy + Anthony | Macedonia Hills | Newnan, GA

Amy and Anthony shared a sweet, but rainy wedding day at the beautiful Macedonia Hills wedding venue in Newnan, GA. They say that rain brings good luck and a cleansing start to a new chapter in life. I don’t think this couple will need luck, but they had plenty of it either way!

Before I continue the rest of the blog let me get this cheesy joke out of the way. Their wedding was ‘PRICE’less. (Get it?! Their last name is Price.) I know. Don’t care. And one more thing, I’m hoping Anthony, the writer, doesn’t judge my writing skills too much!

Back to the blog. The wedding venue was beautifully and thoughtfully decorated with the bride’s vision. Pink peonies dotted her bouquet. Eucalyptus was abundant and filled the empty wine bottles that decorated the farmhouse tables and vintage furniture provided places for guests to lounge.

Amy and her beautiful bridesmaids spent the morning getting ready and doing last minute final touches. The groom’s daughter, Isabella, spent the morning with the ladies as well. Amy’s sister and Maid of Honor, Kathleen, helped Amy get into her gorgeous-curve-hugging wedding dress. She applied a gaurdian angel pin near her heart. Their parents were certainly there in spirit.

I found Anthony and the rest of the groomsmen in basement of the main house. They were watching football and relaxing before the big day. Anthony had awesome cigar boxes for the guys that held special gifts like a tobacco pipe, aviators and bracelets made by his future bride. He handed them out to each groomsman and let each one know how much he appreciated them and was grateful that they could make the trip to celebrate.

The rain still hadn’t let up and I needed to find a covered spot for the first look. The rustic barn on the property fit the bill. Anthony faced towards the open barn door looking out over the field. Eager to see his bride that he loves so much. You can just tell from the way he talks about her.

Amy entered the barn to find her groom waiting. She crept behind him and tapped him on the shoulder. Their reactions were priceless. They both have so much love for one another. It’s refreshing to see their connection. They admired each other. Anthony gave Amy a twirl to get the 360 view.

They took turns reading their vows to each other. I photographed their genuine emotions and it filled my heart to witness.

Before the ceremony, Anthony shared a first look with his daughter. Cue the water works! His reaction to his daughter pulls my heart strings. It was definitely one of the best moments from the whole day. What a great dad. As they shared a moment together on the front porch, Isabella gave her dad a special token that had ‘always your little girl’ inscribed.

Guests were beginning to arrive and take their seats as the rain was still coming down. The wedding party lined up with their super cool clear umbrellas and made their way down the hill. One by one, the bridal party took their places next to Anthony as they waited for the bride to enter. I kid you not, as soon at the ceremony was beginning, the rained paused and the sun peeked through the clouds long enough to complete the quick ceremony.

Amy looked stunning in her fitted lace wedding dress as she walked down the aisle surrounded by family and friends. She met her groom at the altar where they shared a sweet union officiated by one of the groomsmen, Jared Engel. They cheered as the ceremony completed. It was official…#PromotedtoPrice!

The newlyweds entered the tent to share their first dance as husband and wife. They swayed to the music in each other’s arms. Smiling from ear to ear.

Guests dined on some delicious treats from the ‘Good Food’ food truck. Amy’s sister, Kathleen, and the best man, Luke, gave a special toasts and well wishes to the bride and groom. Meanwhile, Kids slipped and slid around the dance floor. They were having a blast. The DJ had everyone on their feet at some point in the celebration.

As the sun was setting and creating a beautiful pink and purple sky through the rainy mist, guests lined up with sparklers and the newlyweds charged through pausing to share a kiss.

When the sun sank behind the pine trees, the guests turned their attention to a really sweet slideshow showing Amy and Anthony’s lives before and after they met. Following the slide show, Anthony, Amy and Isabella shared a family dance. Isabella totally stole the show with her tie-dyed shirt and sick dance moves!

This was such a fun and thoughtful wedding down to every little detail. I’m so happy that the talented Amy chose me to be her photographer.

Remember, if it rains on your wedding day its good luck. Fortunately, these two were good sports about the weather. There’s not much you can do about it except embrace it and be in the moment!

Cheers to The Price’s!

First Look

Ansley + Stuart | Dunaway Gardens | Newnan, GA

Ansley and Stuart’s Scottish wedding at Dunaway Gardens was to die for! The details of this wedding were like nothing I’ve ever photographed! The bride wore a rose gold lace gown, the groom and groomsmen dressed in kilts, the ladies wore beautiful crimson, and the venue looked like a secret garden. They even had a drummer and a bagpiper.

I first met Ansley years ago when she modeled for a fun T-shirt shoot. She’s sassy, quirky and so cute! We had a lot of fun that day. We lost touch a bit between there, so I was thrilled when she asked me to photograph her wedding!

Arriving at the venue, I was blown away by the beauty of Dunaway Gardens. It was a lush estate covered in moss and ivy. It was established by stage star, Hetty James Dunaway. The gardens were an oasis for the performing arts and a favorite retreat for celebrities of the time including Walt Disney! To read more about the history of Dunaway find their history here.

Ansley and Stuart got ready at a nearby hotel in Newnan. The guys had a chill morning sipping on scotch whisky. The girls sipped champagne across the hall as they prepped hair and make-up.

Ansley, alters wedding dresses for a living, so she made some final touches to her dress on the beautiful porch of the bridal cabin at Dunaway. Her mother helped her into her gorgeous dress. The brides added some final touches. Before the ceremony, the bride pinned on her mother and grandmother’s tartans.

The ceremony was held in a beautiful outdoor stone amphitheater. The steps are carpeted with green moss and its surrounded by trees. It was an unbelievable spot and the overcast day made it even more Scottish.

As the ceremony started, the couples’ friends sang a beautiful Scottish song to precede the ceremony. Stuart entered with his groomsmen in tow dressed their kilts. He held back tears, as he watched Ansley make her way down the large stone steps, escorted by her father. Her mother joined them at the bottom of the steps and the both gave her away to her groom.

The ceremony itself was full of wonderful Scottish traditions. Instead of a candle or sand jar they had a hand fasting ceremony to signify their union. Their long-time theater friend officiated the ceremony. He wrapped their hands and gave a blessing for their new marriage. To close the ceremony, the groom pinned his family tartan on the bride’s dress. They shared a sweet kiss and then invited the whole family for a group picture before leaving the ceremony. And when I say the whole family, I mean the WHOLE family! It was super cool to see everyone together in one picture.

After the ceremony concluded the bagpiper and his drummer wife, lead the guests in a traditional processional to the reception to begin the party!

While the guests were making their way to the reception area, I photographed the fabulous wedding party. They are pretty much all thespians, which made for some very awesome pictures. Personality was shining through for sure!

I took the bride and groom down to the lower garden for their portraits. They wandered around the stunning lower garden at Dunaway. So, in love and ready to celebrate! There was a wishing well in the garden, so the two of them made a wish and tossed the penny into the water.

I can’t get over how Stuart looks at Ansley. Ladies, find you someone who looks at you the way that Stuart looks at Ansley. Talk about Prince Charming.

We made our way to the reception and quickly cut the poor cake that was starting to melt in the unseasonably late Georgia heat and humidity. Figures! The simple white cake was adorned with gorgeous fall flowers.

The reception kicked off with the first dance between husband and wife to Sweet Annie by the Zac Brown band. (Fun fact: Anything by Zac Brown makes me cry like a baby!) They were beautiful to watch as they twirled around the dance floor in each other’s arms. Ansley danced with her father to a special song that was actually written by her dad’s great aunt. Stuart shared a sweet dance with his mother who looked gorgeous in her long blue dress.

The rest of the guests kicked off the party and seriously danced the night away. I loved that Ansley and Stuart let loose and really enjoyed their night. The Dj was awesome and kept the party pumping. There was one special song dedicated to Ansley from her childhood girlfriends that also speaks to my heart. If you a female who grew up performing with your friends in the living room, I’m sure you’re going to know this one! Its called Lady Marmalade from the movie Moulin Rouge. That song takes me back to sleep overs and sing-a-longs with my best friends!

The wedding was so much fun! I had a blast photographing it.

PS: Since photographing this wedding, I have some special news, Ansley and Stuart are already expecting their first little one! Yayy!! Can’t wait to see those precious pictures!

Wishing the Spears, a long & happy marriage!

#notafullpickle #onlyaspears

The fabulous vendors:
Venue: Dunaway Gardens
Event Coordinator: Elizabeth Stephenson with Table 6 Productions
Dress: Oleg Cassini for David’s Bridal
Bridesmaids dresses: David’s Bridal
Kilts/Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse and Atlanta Kilt Rental
Cake: Kathryn Spears
Bag Piper/ Drummer: Tom Crawford
Videographer: http://www.lensheadmedia.com/

Vanessa + Andreas | Rancho Santa Maria Polo Club | El Paso, TX

Vanessa and Andreas’ wedding celebration at the Rancho Santa Maria Polo Club was such a fun experience. Vanessa is a Texas girl who was swept off her feet by German named Andreas. They fell in love during a motorcycle road trip and moved all the way to Berlin, Germany.

I was so thrilled to photograph this union. You couldn’t really call it a wedding it was more of a celebration of their union surrounded by the couple’s friends and family in Texas. Vanessa’s mother, Anette, did an amazing job of planning the whole celebration since the bride was in another country!

A couple things stand out in my mind about this day that I’ll never forget. One was having the beautiful Indian motorcycle get stuck in the sand on the banks of the Rio Grande as we were attempting to take the couple’s portraits. Poor Andi, was so done before the pictures even began. But fear not! We had a couple guys from the farm come help push the bike out of the sand and we settled on the dirt road for pictures. It was so El Paso!

We took some gorgeous portraits of these newlyweds. As a photographer, I just love photographing in the desert. The soft pastel colors of the sand and desert plants just translate so beautifully in portraits.

The couple was so effortless together. They balance each other. Vanessa looked elegant in her lace, long sleeve, fitted wedding dress. Her black curls swept up into an effortless up do. Andi was looking handsome in his blue jacket, straight-leg jeans and silver belt buckle. Of course, they both wore boots. Very modern Texan.

We arrived back at the ranch for cocktail hour before the ceremony would get underway. Yellow-orange Margaritas, sat on a table to greet guests as they arrived. Guests mixed and mingled under the patio and the tent as the mariachi band played in to the golden hour.

Before anyone had arrived at the ranch, I was able to watch the Shaman, his wife, grand daughter and friend set up the intricate ceremony setting. Every item had a meaning at the ceremony. From the archway that they walked through to the deerskin that laid at their feet. But don’t ask me these meanings!

As the ceremony began, guests were seated. They didn’t have a wedding party, but the family and friends closest to the couple lined up to make their way through the arch way. Before each person entered the ceremony, they were cleansed by the Shaman. After passing through the archway, they formed a circle around the couple.

Sage burned in the air as the Shaman gave his blessing to the new husband and wife in front of a cute little chapel under a beautiful tree. Their hands were wrapped in special cloths. And before the first kiss, Vanessa and Andi signified their union by drinking wine out of a special vase together, which honestly looked pretty difficult, but somehow, they did it without spilling any!

The party kicked off with the first attempt of lighting the colorful lanterns, but the El Paso wind crashed that party quickly. It actually turned out to be a good thing they held off till later in the evening, because the second thing that I’ll never forget from this day were the hordes and I mean hordes of mosquitos that came out of the ground while guests were trying to light their lanterns. It was something out of a survival show. Fortunately, we all survived. I’m sure this is one part of the day Andi and Vanessa would hope to forget, but it does make a good story!

As the sun faded out, so did the mosquitos. Guests were finally able to enjoy dinner and be entertained by the groom’s fantastic speech of how he and Vanessa met and fell in love.

It was a saga of epic proportions to say the least and the groom had everyone captivated with his tale. Guests laughed at his endeavor of how he would attempt to acquire the bride’s father’s permission to take his daughter out and cried over his tales of how the two bonded over a love of music on the back of a motorcycle.

The party was kicked off with the first dance shared between husband and wife and then the rest of the guests joined in on the fun! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, good dancing is in the water in El Paso. All the guests had an absolute blast dancing and partying the night away.

And we finally got to send off those paper lanterns! The wind finally calmed down, so guests grabbed their lighters and sent off their blessings to the new couple into the night sky.

The last thing I’ll never forget at this wedding was the fire dancers from Odd Lab! YESSSS! These guys were so cool and put on an awesome show for the bride, groom and guests. The four guys each took turns doing different routines with the flaming balls of fire swinging around them! At the end, they further impressed by climbing onto each other shoulders with the fire. It was a wonderful way to end the night. Guests were wowed, I was wowed. It was definitely a wedding celebration I’ll never forget!

Cheers to Vanessa and Andreas!

Now, enjoy these picture from this awesome day!

See the rest of the photos from Vanessa and Andreas’ wedding here.

Michelle (Shelby) + Kory | Grace Gardens | El Paso, TX

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

Valerie + Andy | Castle Ballroom | El Paso

Valerie and Andy are the sweetest couple who shared a beautiful wedding ceremony at the Shalom Christian Church in El Paso, Texas surrounded by their friends and family.

Valerie started her day at Xtremes Salon along with her sister and mother. They had a chill morning as the stylists pampered the ladies for the special day ahead. Valerie’s long dark hair was curled and her make up carefully applied. She’s a natural beauty who looked stunning after Ana, the stylist, had finished. Her sister, Brenda, and their mother, Lucy, posed for a cute picture under the hair dryers before we headed to Valerie’s house to step into her dress and add the finishing touches.

The bride’s mother helped her get dressed and pinned her “something old” to her dress for safe keeping. Valerie looked stunning in her wedding dress. The dress was unique with beautiful lace overlay and layers soft tulle fell to the floor. The silver beaded belt added a little bling to the already beautiful dress.

When she was dressed and ready her father, Jerry, got the see her for the first time. These are always such special moments. I love to see the dad’s reaction to seeing their daughters for the first time in their wedding dresses. It never disappoints!

It was a rainy wedding day for Valerie and Andy, but that didn’t stop them from having a beautiful celebration. We arrived at the Shalom Christian Church and everything was set up and ready for the vows to be exchanged. The handsome groom beamed as he waited for his bride to join him at the altar. The bride made her way down the aisle to meet Andy. They walked hand in hand up to the stage where the minister lead a God-filled ceremony. Andy and Val’s relationship is one that is centered around Jesus and their church family. They have strong family and church family realtionships that will be ready to lend support whenever its needed.

After the ceremony the rain was still falling in Fabens. So, we had to get creative with the photo locations. We decided on The Fountains because we knew it wouldn’t be muddy! So we could keep the brides dress as clean as possible. This place actually worked out really well and miraculously it was not raining when we started shooting!

Later in the evening, wedding party and guests began arriving to the Castle Ballroom in El Paso. The room was beautifully decorated to kick off the celebration for these newly weds! I was super impressed with the milk and cookie bar that was the bride’s brilliant idea. They had all kinds of cookies and every kind of milk in cute little glasses! It was a lot of fun for both the kids and the adults at the party.

After dinner was served, the DJ turned up the music and the party kicked off with the first dance for the new husband and wife. Both the bride and groom shared special dances with their parents. Afterwards, the guests had a blast dancing and partying the night away. Everyone you and old was on the dance floor! El Paso really does now how to party.

Take a look at some of my faves from Val and Andy’s day!

Getting ready

Shalom Christian Church | Fabens, TX

bride and groom sit as they listen to minister during ceremony

wide shot of bride and groom praying during ceremony

The Fountains | El Paso, TX

groom sits in front of fountain close up

Castle Ballroom | El Paso, TX

bride and groom feeds their cake to each other

The Milk + Cookie Bar

bride and groom hold their special cookies

Vendors:

Venues: Shalom Christian Church, Castle Ballroom
Hair & Make Up: Xtremes West Salon, Ana
Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal, Vera Wang, White Collection
Florist: Angie’s Flowers
Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse
Cakes: The Cake Lady, Irma Holder
DJ: DJ Munchies (Luis)
Milk & Cookie Bar: Elegance by Susy

El Paso International Museum of Art | Stephanie + Stephen

Stephanie and Stephen had such a amazing and intimate wedding at the International Museum of Art in El Paso, Texas. Take a look at some of my favorite images from their day.

Meeting the future Wattys

Stephanie and Stephen are both doctors who have been transplanted to El Paso. Stephanie has a Phd in Art History and Stephen is a medical doctor, so these two are quite a team! They have been dating since college and they decided to tie the knot in El Paso. I was so thrilled to meet them. I just felt good vibes immediately when we sat down at Trade Craft for coffee. They also let me know that one of the groomsmen was also from Georgia like me! Even further evidence that this was going to be a great wedding fit!

Foilage Salon

I met Stephanie and the bridesmaids at the Foilage Salon in El Paso. They all laughed and chatted in various stages of hair and make up. The styilists worked on styling applying make up to the ladies to prep them for a day full of photos.

El Paso International Art Museum

the international museum of art in el paso-1 — Internation Museum of Art in El Paso

Stephanie’s theme for the wedding was art deco style which I love! The little touches from her rhinestone shoes to her finger waved hair were just perfect.

The three tiered art deco style cake was made by her talented mother and I cannot rave enough about it. The details were everything and it was delicious! If I ever get married, I’m seriously calling her mom for this cake!

The ceremony and reception area was decorated with beakers, test tubes, old science and history books and other science things that I don’t remember from chemistry class! I loved photographing them. What a unique way to decorate a wedding. I loved all the little touches representing both their passions and personalities that they thought to include.

Bridal Details

Stephanie’s dress fit her like a glove. She looked so glamorous when everything finally came together. The bridesmaids dressed were all different shades of gold and added a beautiful texture and color to the bridal party line up.

Prepping the Bride

Stephanie’s mother helped her make a few final touches to her bouquet by added her family’s heirloom jewelry. The bridesmaids gathered all around Stephanie to get her looking perfect before she met her groom.

close up shot of heirloom family rings-1

Stephen and his groomsmen dressed handsomely in traditional black suits pinned with white roses dipped in gold glitter. The were all ready to go when they arrived at the venue for the ceremony.

detail shot of a rose boutinniere on a groomsman-1

Before the ceremony began, Stepanie opted for a first look with her father who looked so happy to see his beautiful daughter all glammed up and ready to walk down the aisle.

Guests rose from their seats as the bride and her father appeared at the top of the steps. Escorted by her father down the steps of the museum, she met her groom as he beamed at her from the altar. They had a sweet and emotional ceremony. They both wiped away tears as they read their vows to one another. They exchanged rings and kisses and were pronounced husband and wife. They seemed to skip back down the aisle as they made their way outside for the pictures.

father escorts the bride down the stairs-1

bride and groom hold hands at the altar-1

bride and groom hold hands at the altar-1-2

bride holds back tears while listening to the groom's vows-1

groom wipes away tears during the ceremony-1

the bride and groom walk back down the aisle after ceremony-1

bride and groom share a kiss before the exit-1

Husband and wife ventured around the museum with me as I photographed them enjoying each other’s company in the after ceremony glow.

bride and groom play piano together close up-1

bride and groom kiss on the balcony close up-1

bride and groom kiss each other in the museum-1

The new husband and wife rejoined their guests the same way Stephanie had entered the ceremony. Hand in hand they made their way down the stairs to greet their eagerly awaiting family and friends. They held their sweet first dance to Shining Star by The Manhattans. They both looked so happy and relieved to enjoy the party!

bride and groom share their first dance-1-2

bride and groom share their first dance-1

Beautiful toasts were made by the maid of honor, best man and the bride’s father. The bride’s father handed a special lock and key to the groom that he held onto for Stephanie for this special day. Details like that special token from her father made this whole day so special.

The guests and newly weds mixed and mingled and shared blesssings and well wishes. When it was time to part for the day, the guests lined up outside of the museum steps with bubbles in hand.

newly weds pose with friends at reception-1

As the guests starting blowing their bubbles and the Wattys ran hand in hand through the bubbles grinning from ear to ear.

And they were off to their Hawaiian honeymoon!

Wishing this awesome couple a life time of happiness!

Makeup and Hair: Foliage Hair Salon and Day Spa
Venue: The International Museum of Art
Cake Artist: My Sister’s Bakery (Mother of the bride: Debbie Strauss)
Wedding Dress: Absolute Bridal (Midland, Texas) | Essence of Australia
Bridesmaid Dresses: Lulu’s Fashion Lounge
Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse
Catering: Around the World Catering
Officiant: Minister Barbara Perez

Steph & Stephen Sneak Peek

I’m a little behind on posting this sneak peek, so there a few more images in here than I would normally share. This was a wonderful and unique wedding at the International Museum of Art in El Paso. It had all the art deco touches that I’m obsessed with plus some really cool science nods in the decor! Please enjoy a few of my favorites from Stephanie and Stephen’s wedding.

Krystina + Anthony

I was so thrilled when Krystina and Anthony wanted me to photograph their Hollywood wedding. I’ve known Krystina since my days serving at Houlihans in Columbus, Ga. She was the manager at Houlihans for a while until she moved on to other adventures within the same company. What always stood out to me about Krystina is that she truly lights up the room. She has this wonderful presence and its hard not to have a smile when she is around. Also, she had this amazing pair of lace up boots that I’ll never forget! Ha-ha! She loves Dr. Who, Disney princesses and all things cosplay. She’s a kid at heart and I know Anthony will never have a dull moment with Krystina by his side.

I had not met Anthony before, but had seen the happy pictures of him with Krystina. What I did know about him was that he was a magician and a member of the Magic Castle in Hollywood. I immediately pictured card tricks, top hats and doves flying out of hats! And secretly really hoped all those things would be part of the wedding. 🙂 I was a slightly off with all my preconceived ideas of a magicians wedding. There were no doves or bunnies. When I met Anthony, the first thing I noticed was his huge smile. He was friendly and had a welcoming disposition about him. He also didn’t have a dove in his pocket…I don’t think.

The morning of the wedding, I flew into LAX very early from El Paso and ubered to Krystina and Anthony’s apartment. I waited for the wedding party to get prepped for the day and admired the neighbor’s prized “Sprite tree” in the yard. And by sprite tree, I mean the lady had hybrid lemon limes growing on her tree, but I digress.

We headed to the wedding venue, Wattles Mansion, in Hollywood. The giant house was a beautiful, Spanish style home that sat on top of a hill overlooking downtown Los Angeles. The front of the house was lovely, but the real beauty of the mansion was the stunning backyard. The back side of the mansion was slowly being overtaken by creeping green ivy. Three tiers of brick steps lead up the rose garden on the top level. The symmetry of the place was a photographer’s dream. Tall palm trees lined the aisle and string lights hung from the balcony.

I found, the bride and the bridesmaids had begun hair and make-up in one of the sun filled upstairs rooms. The bride started out the day wearing one of her favorite outfits…her Star Trek uniform. As fun as the Star Trek was, her second outfit change was the real show stopper. Her wedding gift from Anthony was a stunning white floor length Catherine D’Lish gown. The gown was made of delicate sheer white fabric and had long bell sleeves with ostrich feathers embellishing the ends. All you can do in a gown like that is just be fabulous and twirl around the room. Check and check.

Anthony and his son, Luke, arrived and they were dressed and ready to go in their tuxes. Luke was too cute in his mini tux and Anthony was all smiles ready to marry Krystina. As soon as Luke and Anthony arrived, Luke wanted to run upstairs and see Krystina. He gave her a big hug when he found her. Melt!

When the rest of the groomsmen arrived, they met Anthony upstairs. They finished tying bowties, fastening cuff links and buttoning vests. The men shared some whiskey on the rocks as they waited for the ceremony to begin. Even little Luke got a toast in for the big day. (water of course).

Meanwhile, the bride and bridesmaids were having pizza delivered a couple rooms down. The bride loves Anthony, but the side love story of the day here is really pizza. I mean everyone loves pizza. I can’t recall a time where pizza has broken any hearts…Unless you went to get a slice and the box was empty. J

The bridesmaids finished getting ready in their blush pink dresses. And then helped Krystina get her La Soie wedding dress on. The dress was perfect. The sweet heart neckline and the light and airy delicate fabric of the skirt looked stunning and fit her perfectly. The bride’s mother helped zip her up and place the long veil just right.

Shortly before the ceremony the bride’s father stepped in to see his daughter for the first time in her wedding dress. He looked genuinely proud of her and gave her a big hug and kiss before he walked her down the aisle.

The wedding guests had taken their seats and the ceremony was getting started. The bride’s step father, Ellis played and sang some jazz tunes while the guests were being seated. He was definitely a crowd favorite and received much praise at the reception for his talent.

The groom’s father was officiating the ceremony. He and Anthony made their way up the steps to the front of the gardens to wait for Krystina’s entrance. Two by two the wedding party entered and made their way up the steps of the gardens.

When the wedding party was in place, a song was heard from an unknown location. The guests looked around to see who and where the singing was coming from. They found the bride in the second-floor window looking out and singing Can’t Help Falling in Love to Anthony before she walked down the aisle.

Krystina made her way up the steps of the gardens with her father to meet her groom who wiped away tears as he watched his bride join him at the altar. The bride’s father and mother gave her a kiss and took their seats. Anthony’s father proceeded with the ceremony. The couple read their own vows to each other and Anthony had his bride in stitches with laughter.

As Mr. Tigner was about to announce them man and wife we looked to the right of the couple to find one of the groomsmen was fainting! Fortunately, there was a doctor on the guest list and she rushed to his aid. He seemed to be ok and possibly had just over heated from standing in the hot sun. He was a good sport about it and later feigned fainting as the wedding party was announced at the reception.

The ceremony resumed and finally Krystina and Anthony were announced husband and wife!

A delicious dinner was served at the reception as the wedding party was announced and took their seats. Disney theme songs played softly in the background. The bride and groom sat slightly above the guests as they listened to their friends and family make both hilarious and heartfelt toasts to the newlyweds.

After dinner, the party moved into the Mansion where the Tigners shared their first dance as a married couple. They had a blast dancing to Flight of the Conchords and to me, it looked slightly choreographed, but maybe they just got skills like that! They ended the dance with a perfect dip! The bride followed with a sweet dance with her father. And Anthony and his mother kicked it up a notch with an impressive swing dance! Definitely, a talented family on both sides!

Next, it was time to toss that bouquet to the all single ladies. The bride took to the front balcony and tossed it from high above the guests. After a scramble, one lucky lady was the victor. As for the garter, I’d say that Anthony was very polite in removing it from under all those layers of white fabric. The single guys clustered up behind him, but in the end, it was a young man that won the title of garter catcher.

The dance floor opened, the wine flowed and people were having a blast mingling, dancing and taking photos in the photo booth.

Cutting the cake was tragic for Krystina, because she had to destroy her beautiful Dr. Who telephone booth! The pain on her face was visible as she sliced into the blue phone booth. They didn’t hold back in smashing the cake in each other’s faces which always is more fun than being gentle with it!

The party continued into the night. As I was leaving, one of the last images I captured was of the new little family taking a picture together in the photo booth. It was a sweet moment and they seemed to have tuned out the party breifly and just enjoyed the present and their new journey together.

I’m sure that they’ll live happily ever after. Wishing this new couple, a long and happy marriage.

Please enjoy some of my favorite shots of the Tigner’s day.

Venue: Wattles Manison
Cake: Rai Antoinette Cakes
Dress: La Soie
Bridal Shoes: Steve Madden
DJ: Vox DJS

Sneak peek for Brittany and Jordan

It’s been a whirlwind week in wedding photography land. From Las Cruces to Los Angeles all in the same weekend!

I photographed Brittany and Jordan’s wedding last Saturday and then 6 hours later I was on a flight to Los Angeles for a wedding the next day. I’m a little behind this week, but I’m excited to share a couple highlights with you from last Saturday’s wedding in Las Cruces, NM.

Once they’re completed, you’ll be able to find the full gallery of photos here.

	Joni Jones on Lance + Kristi \| Flint River h…
	anna hoffman on Krystina + Anthony
	Joni on Shelby + Kory’s Engagemen…
	Joni on Jess + Andrew
	Joni jknes on Sooo, I did this cool thi…