A perfect way to end 2017 is to post about one of my favorite and most colorful weddings of all time! I wish I could go in depth about how quickly my relationship formed with these two, but you may not believe me. After spending a brief afternoon with Vidisha, I recognized a joyful light beaming from within her. Once I saw her with Varun, that beam was only enhanced by his adoring nature. They really are the perfect pair who love their family and friends just as vibrantly as the colors adorning their stunning wedding. Their three day affair took place in downtown Memphis at The Columns, a majestic venue adorned with massive marble columns straight out of a corinthian magazine! Nabiha Huda with NH Events and Designs made all of Vidisha and her mom's vision come to life! The florals, lighting, and design were the perfect complement to such an exquisite venue. However, the FOOD was my absolute favorite!! You know you might go to India Palace too much when....well, I'm making myself hungry right now. The most difficult thing about this wedding was choosing which imagery to show you, therefore, I will let the images tell the rest of their story....

Decor, planning, and coordination: NH Events & Design

Florals: Flowers by Regis

Chairs: Sparke Wedding Rentals

Tableware: Party Concepts

Linens: Elegant Chair Solutions

Stage & Design: White Door Events, NH Events

Wedding Cake: Frost Bake Shop

Caterer: Hyderabad House Indian Cuisine, India Palace

The crispness in the air this fall morning was so very pleasant and really set the tone for this gorgeous engaged session. As soon as these two flames stepped out of the car, love was abounding. I quickly asked how adventurous they would want to be, I took there slight hesitation as a very!! Audra's shoes were to die for.....and she knew exactly how to work them over rough, hilly terrain. She is a very strong woman who's strength exudes through her "can do" attitude and "hear me roar" spirit! Her beauty is synonymous with her inner strength. Alan is a man who is confident in who he is, yet so carefree that it's easy for one to feel like you've been friends forever. When i questioned Alan on how he was so natural in front of the camera and with Audra, he informed me that he's seen a lot of "Save the Dates" in his time. There is nothing better than a man who is unashamedly in love with his person! One of my favorite qualities about these two was their charming sense of humor. They make each other laugh so much that anyone in their presence cannot help but join in on their joy and fun! I cannot wait till next month when these two tie the knot. Mark Twain once said, "To get the full value of joy, you must have someone to divide it with." After this day, I cannot wait to be around those that divide this among them! 

Hannah and her mom have been planning of this day long before an engagement and they couldn't have chosen a more perfect place! Hedge Farms in Byhalia, MS is the a venue for anyone who loves the outdoors! Set in the country side, this gorgeous estate is surrounded by lushess green pastures, a green covered wood slat barn, as well as a small pond. The main house is a perfectly sized planter's cottage that looks like a scene from a storybook with it's tall, stately windows and high, wide porch. Even though the forecast called for rain most of the week, we made it through the day with only a few droplets here and there! {insert praise hands here}

Hannah, the ever so thoughtful one, greeted her bridesmaids at the Garden House outside the courtyard with the kindest notes and flowy pink floral robes! While the girls got ready in the sweet little loft, Jennifer Green with Amara Salon in Oxford, Mississippi was downstairs getting the beautiful bride ready. I've never been more impressed with a hair and makeup artist! If you want to feel and look like a queen for the day....Jennifer is your girl! 

Hannah had long decided that she wanted to have a first look with her dad on that big beautiful porch on the front of the main house. She gifted her dad special cufflinks for the day; and after a quick change on a forgotten bowtie, her dad finally got to see his one and only princess! Hannah appeared in her incredibly gorgeous off the shoulder bridal gown comprised of dainty lace details and a long romantic train. She selected this beauty at Lowe's in Brinkley, Arkansas. 

Tim and his solid crew of guys made the most of the entire day by passing time dancing, laughing, and basically doing wolfpack things. They for sure were never camera shy and kept the day moving with hysterics all day! 

Hannah and Tim had decided to have their first look in the courtyard surround by tall greenery and imperfectly charming brick pavers. This was the moment they had been dreaming of for so long and it did not disappoint. Tim was elated to see his bride! This moment, one full of emotion, joy, and intimacy will forever be in their hearts! 

Although a brief shower did move through the area right before the ceremony, Hedge Farms did a great job of ensuing their outdoor ceremony space was covered and ready! About 30 minutes before the vows, the sun broke through the clouds providing beautiful, soft light along with that sweet after the rain smell. Each family and friend member of the bridal party joyfully walked down the aisle to witness a darling ceremony set in front of the most handsome tree. Hannah's grandmother's prepared the aisle with rose petals while Tim's twin nephews announced the coming of his bride! The bride and groom decided to emulate their covenant and vows by a darling foot washing ceremony followed by an intimate prayer together. It was really one of the most moving displays of the day!

Hannah's Aunt Sandy actually created all of the florals for her day that I like to theme as Blush and Bashful. All the shades of pink and white peonies were complimented with the softest muted silver dollar eucalyptus leaves. Can we all just agree that this may always be the perfect pairing. It's worth noting that her Aunt Sandy does this for fun and is not available for hire. I was in constant awe as I walked through the venue at the intricately composed array of florals. They were literally everywhere......hello my reception, my reception!! {Please let there be some Steele Magnolia fans out there reading this!} Speaking of magnolias, the reception had to be moved to plan B due to the threat of rain. While this may have been a bummer to some, it created ever more of a magical intimate affair. The head table was adorned with a beautiful array of magnolia leaves with soft hues of white and pink throughout. Each table was designed with tall elegant lanterns embellished with more perfectly designed florals and a magnificent place setting. Aunt Sandy, you are the real MVP. 

The newly Mr. and Mrs. Tubbs celebrated with a massive amount of their closest family and friends by dancing the night away on the white and black checkered dance floor. I don't really recall it ever being empty....even with the delicious food provided by TJ Sipes beckoning them. If one had a sweet tooth, it was satisfied by incredibly delicious four layer wedding cake by Melissa Elliot, the groom's mini cheesecakes, or plethora of other goodies! I may have even seen a few adults sneak candy from the kid's table! 

After one last dance, Hannah and Tim left the evening walking under an awning of prominent crape myrtles. Their closest family and friends cheered the couple onward with sparklers and cheers galore. A perfect ending to this magical day! 

I will never tire of engagements or weddings in the Fall, the season perfectly poised for love. I met Ashley and Luke on a perfectly crisp day in downtown Tupelo. We arranged for a spot to meet up to begin. I do need to insert here that I had done my due diligence and did a quick Facebook search to find out who I would be meeting. However....I had incorrectly pegged the wrong girl. After my confession of being slightly confused when I stepped out of my car at the Lyric, we all were able to laugh and adventure together. Ya'll....Tupelo has some BEAUTIFUL spots to seek out! Not only did we find a gigantic Jail House Rock Elvis mural, we also stumbled upon a new venue that is getting ready to take the downtown area by storm. The property manager at the Tupelo Cotton Mill was incredibly gracious and let us explore their property while snapping a few pics. 

As we went along from location to location, I got to know more of Ashley and Luke's story and how they reconnected via messenger after being childhood friends. As you can see, Luke adores his fiancé. I love when I ask friends to just be themselves and do things they normally would do and the guy channels that and just loves on his woman. Ashley seems so at ease in his arms and keeps the moment light which makes it so easy on everyone. I can only imagine that this is how she is with everyone she encounters. After ending our session at The Grill, the location of their first date four years ago, we grabbed a bite to eat. 

Luke and Ashley, I wish I could relay how moved I was at listening to the two of you tell me stories about your family. I left our conversation that evening understanding why you are such quality people....you come from deeply rooted, good trees. I have thought about going into detail of those stories, but I feel as though it was a special moment shared among friends. I now long to meet each and every member of your family and look forward to getting to know them as I get to know you guys more. Thank you for being so honorable, respectful, and loving. We need more people in this world like the two of you, placing high priority on families. I hope you enjoyed the evening just as much as I did! 

When I first sat down with these two, I could tell I was in for a treat! If you are ever in the mood for a good little story, ask John Michael how he landed on the gorgeous ring sitting so beautifully on Leslie's dainty finger. Fate would have the two of them being together....it just may have taken a little or a few years to see them do just that. After spending an afternoon together you could tell that they were made for each other though like peanut butter and jelly or bbq and wings. Who doesn't love a couple that are so completely themselves that they reenact awkward cruise ship photos, show all of their random dance moves, and burst into laughter at each other's straight faces?! These two love as much as they laugh and as you can see, are pretty much down for anything! I cannot wait until I get to spend time with the rest of their crew next June! 

When the bride and groom are rolling 22 deep with the wedding party, you know they know how to have a good time! Seriously, the day went incredibly smooth with clear skies and a beautiful sunset. Ashton and Tyler's friends and family were full of joy and laughter the entire day despite the high temps (bc....hello Mississippi summertime). I literally cannot remember one thing being a little off! 

Ashton started the day with her girls getting ready at her parent's very new and gorgeous home! She said she woke up early and even got to spend some one on one time with her parents before the day really got going. It was such an honor to be invited into one's home knowing how much love and care they have for the people they house. You totally feel at peace surrounded by such caring and joyful spirits! I was in love once I saw Ashton's gown for the first time.....beautiful satin, delicate lace, and that stunning train....wowzers! Also, did I mention pockets??? She's a girl after my own heart! I was blown away by the beauty and functionality of that dress! When I think of her on this day, she reminded me of such a classical, timeless bride with a look of Audrey Hepburn to boot! She also has exquisite taste as evidenced by her florals. Olive Branch Florist put together one of the most jaw dropping bridal bouquets I've ever laid eyes on....in person or in print. I was impressed with their perfectly soft color combo, but even more dazzled by the way they combined texutres. I'm looking at you peonies, air plants and succulents! 

The men spent their morning getting ready at the Holiday Inn in Olive Branch, MS. Thank you Holiday Inn for your glorious window light, your fun patterned wallpaper, and your big gathering spaces! As you can see, I think Tyler and his guys enjoyed their time as well! 

Once at the church, Ashton and Tyler took great delight at the first sight of each other! Anytime I've been around the two of them, they just exude this harmonious spirit about them. Each little laugh and touch are with a sense of easiness. It's like you've know them for a good long while. The apple doesn't fall far from the trees they say. I can attest to this as both of their parents were savoring the day as much as they were! We wrapped up portraits with family and friends at the Wesson House in Old Towne Olive Branch. 

After a sweet ceremony at First Baptist Church of Olive Branch, the bride and groom made their grand entrance, along with their entourage, at the Olive Branch Country Club. In college, the pair passed some time learning how to swing dance. Knowing this, I wasn't surprised out how well both could dance. The surprise came when Ashton and her dad broke out into a ridiculously crazy dance routine which brought much delight and joy to everyone in the room! I wish I could post every single image of this, but where I would highly suggest to check out footage for this treat! Guest also enjoyed utilizing the putting green and playing corn hole in the greens area of the clubhouse. I may have hit a few balls myself! I loved how they had details of themselves throughout the clubhouse and even provided a fun Photo Booth for guests! Their magical day was capped by an evening stroll through sparklers held by joyful onlookers....and was sealed with a kiss! 

Venues: First Baptist Church of Olive Branch, Olive Branch Country Club

Cake: Old Towne Bakery, Olive Branch

Florals: Olive Branch Florist 

Videographers: 

I've had the privilege of working with these two professionally as well as serve alongside them at our church over the past year. I've watched both of them live and love well! While good at their craft, they both go beyond their mad videography skills to connect and do life with students. If you ever get the chance to grab a cup of coffee or adventure with them, you'll be inspired and moved to do something more! 

One could understand why I jumped on the opportunity to capture a few threads of their story! The hike to the waterfall at Petite Jean State Park was enchanting! There are massive boulders that seem like they've been there since the beginning, tall, tall trees with character, and and abundance of water to play in along the way! The hike back...well...lets just say there are extremely steep switchbacks all the way up. (I may have stopped talking the last 30 minutes of our adventure for fear of passing out!) Rob is the quiet at first, strong type. After a few hours, he may have revealed his gift for impersonations and love for a good meal though. He is overly kind and has been gifted from above with the best curly locks a man can have. While Adalenne's giftings are many, she is a strong visionary. (If you ever need a videographer, she's your gal....Forever Moments Videography) She's her own boss and loves things with character. Her faith is deep and her future is bright. It's not difficult to quickly see their love and adoration for each other. This day will forever be one of my favorites....and most breathtaking...pun intended. 

I'm a sucker for a good college sweetheart story. These two met as freshmen band members at Mississippi State University and have been making music together ever since! (We even shared which one might be more punny than the other.) They wed in just over 2 months and are so carefree! Hello...senior year! Laughter, joy and dancing will soon be had!  

THIS Day....it was destined to be magical from the beginning. Morgan has a gentle, hippie soul. She is abundantly gifted in all things creative: photography, fashion, sewing, singing....you get the idea. Ironically, she met Jon through instagram, or I should say connected with him over insta. Jon is also insanely gifted. Give that man an instrument and he will play it, and play it well. It was once said that Jon writes, plays, and produces faster than the legendary Jack White himself. Therefore, all of the creative world rejoiced when these two started dating!  

I fortunately had started working with Morgan right before their engagement. We had many a celebration in our office over this momentous occasion! In just under 7 months, she managed to plan the most stylized, that's-so-Morgan, wedding of any hippie soul's dream! She designed and made her glorious, flower power dress alongside her talented Mimi and Aunt. Her mom was the real MVP and made sure she carried out each collaborated detail perfectly.

Side note: The only bump in the day was a hilarious one when we realized her brother (in all of the excitement) had accidentally been left at home while taking photos. No worries though, he ditched his roller skates, got dressed, and arrived promptly 15 minutes later. 

Morgan and her entourage of besties got ready at her home in Hernando, MS. It was evident from the beginning of this morning that it was going to be a sunny, beautiful day full of fun and relaxed excitement. Morgan's dress and flower crown were the perfect complement to her bohemian, free spirited heart. Jon did not disappoint in his tailored, navy blue suit complete with a handsomely textured slim blue tie and cognac, cap toe leather oxfords. Clearly, I was working with super models....I promise these are real people. 

Their first look was magical along a curvy path surrounded by tall wooded pines and greenery. All of the wedding planning quickly became worthwhile when they exchanged their first glances in their own little enchanted forest. It was seriously was of the most tender, sweetest first looks I've gotten to witness. The gorgeous couple were quickly joined by their family and friends before heading to the church to make this day official! 

The couple wed at Boulevard Baptist Church in Southaven, MS in front of a beautiful, custom built backdrop comprised of geometric shapes and candles. It was also adorned with gorgeous flowers and greenery styled by Jonathan Whitby at L&Jay Productions in Memphis, TN. After the intimate ceremony that entailed a family prayer and scripture reading by the Bride's little bro, the couple whisked away to the Hernando Square to take a couple of quick snaps as Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Gaines. 

The reception was held at the New Orleans styled brick Courtyard on the historic Hernando Square. The even rented and blocked off a side street, ya'll! They danced, mingled, and had the best time laughing with family and close friends! Geometric gold, greenery, candles, and lights were everywhere! The bride even had a special choreographed dance with her younger bro to Ho Hey by the Lumineers! This momentous event was catered by Clancy's Cafe from Red Banks, MS. They DID NOT disappoint! Morgan and Jon left under a gigantic, bright moon with a rainbow of flower petals reigning down upon them. A splendid compliment to their perfectly stylized wedding! 

These two are counting down the days until their I DO. For their engagement, they requested a fun shoot in Downtown Memphis. After a very trying bowtie debacle, we conquered downtown and shared many a laughs along the way! Checkout these two and show them some love! 

The adventure was on as soon as Morgan described where she would like her engagements to take place last Spring! We may have walked through a field, down a steep hill, and explored mini ravines to get these beauts!  As you can see, these two are wildly in love and are expecting an extra dose of perfection this September!

This enchanting forest engagement adventure was filled with steep little hikes, huge boulders, a trickle of a waterfall, and the most serene stream in the state of Alabama. We had originally been planning to go to a neighboring area, but thankfully we were diverted to the Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve owned and operated by the Lacefields. We were even greeted by Mrs. Lacefield in the parking lot just past her gorgeous home and given an overview of the 700 acre land! This private nature preserve has the most well kept trails and the fanciest privy’s I’ve ever laid eyes on! And the best thing…..fresh drinking WATER about every mile or so! Who is even that kind? It was like hiking through the Dubai of trail systems! So if you have any buji friends, this is the place to go! Every turn was filled with a new and more beautiful section than the last. I think Rebecca and I both could have built cute little fairy houses in these woods and have been perfectly content with living there for a good long while! 

Even better than this fairy forest, was the company that I kept. Hudson and Rebecca know how to relax and enjoy their surroundings! When we realized the “waterfall” was just a few little trickles, they happily found other places to explore! When a small rain cell passed over for about 30 minutes or so, they found shelter under a huge rock face and celebrated the rest and quiet that it brought. At the end of our adventure, we were all quite shocked as the hours seemed like mere minutes. Time stands still with these two as they look at each other with such adoration and love. They are literally the two that would dance in any storm. For this, I’m looking forward to their wedding day next year. I can only expect a joyful, relaxed day filled with so much love! We ended the day at an tiny eclectic, mom and pop joint along Hwy 72 called Abe’s Grill. It was the perfect ending to a perfect adventure. We are talking frosted mason jars, cheeseburgers and fries that rival most Memphis joints, and all served at one counter on parchment paper. We were famished and excited for this unexpected adventure! I’m so very grateful to break bread with couples that open themselves so much that they become friends! Cheers to the future!!

When I got the call from Hudson, I knew I had to make this happen. His kindness, caring, and thoughtfulness in planning out each detail of this proposal story, is a testament to his character and how he longs to serve Rebecca well. These two started dating right after high school graduation and haven't looked back. They sweetly wrote cards and letters back and forth between Starkville and Canton, MS while pursuing their degrees. Hudson schemed with Rebecca's closest family and friends to make sure each letter and card were represented. You can tell from Rebecca's candid expressions, this was not what she was expecting! He also made sure to have her favorite Calypso drink and sweet treats readily available to celebrate. Dating long distance through college is HARD. However, after spending just a few minutes with these two, you can tell how much they respect and deeply care for one another. I happen to know each of their parents and the apples don't fall far from the trees! I cannot wait to continue to share their love story throughout their engagement and covenant!