I’ve known Aaron since he moved to Goldsboro in fourth grade. We’ve been through middle school, hanging out in neighborhoods, Aaron driving me to school literally every morning until I got my license, drunk concert nights, boat days…you name it.

I remember when Aaron met Jessica and something just felt different, especially in the way he looked at her. She brought him on adventures, exploring different cities, and it was so sweet seeing the way he laughed with her.

When I found out they were engaged, I was SO excited for them. When I got the call from Jessica that she wanted me to photograph their day, I was freaking out!!!

I’ve always struggled with whether or not I would want to photograph my friends’ weddings because it’s hard to really enjoy the day when I’m working…but I’m also a control freak and it means SO MUCH to me that my closest friends’ days are photographed in a way that does the day justice, so it really makes my heart happy when I can make sure that happens 🙂

They were originally planning on getting married May 2 –– obviously plans had to change. Even with the stress of this year, Jessica worked with Chelsea at The Firehouse to make sure that everything was in order and they would have the day they’d always dreamed of.

I’m starting to really become a fan of smaller weddings. Having a smaller bridal party allows you to really soak in the time with those closest to you. I’ve never seen a more relaxed bride and groom than one surrounded by 2-3 of their best guys and girls, and getting to get all of the family photos they care for. It’s so nice to be able to be stress-free and focused on what really matters.

My favorite part of the day was hearing Jessica and Aaron read their vows to each other. I loved hearing personal vows because I learn so much about a couple and the promises they want to make to each other for forever. You could feel the love and emotion pouring out of them as they promised to always support and never leave each other alone. Seeing their parents sitting on the front row and their community filling the seats, tearing up at their words was such a sweet moment.

It was a tough one but I did narrow down a small recap of the gorgeousness of Jessica and Aaron’s day (you know, only like 150+ images). I’m so grateful to have been a part of it!!!

A huge thank you to the vendors who made this day beautiful!!!

VENUE // The Firehouse
COORDINATION // Chelsea at The Firehouse
ENTERTAINMENT // DJ Tommy King
FLORALS // Pinewood Florist
HAIR // Ellen Massey
MAKEUP // Danielle Lee
WEDDING DRESS // NY Bride and Groom
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES // Carolina Bridal World
WEDDING SHOES // Badgley Mischka
GROOMSMEN SUITS // Belk
CAKE // Dawn Anderson
STATIONARY // Elli
CATERING // Carl and Chelle’s
PHOTOBOOTH // Raleigh Photobooth Pros
RENTALS // CE Rentals
BAR // Brewmasters Mobile

Jessica and Aaron buried a bourbon bottle upside down on the property a month before the wedding for “no rain” good luck! This is one of my favorite, fun southern traditions –– and it definitely worked!!! It was all sunshine and no rain!

Right after the ceremony the bridal party gathered around while Aaron’s dad dug up the bottle. Normally we all take a swig from the bottle to celebrate, but to be health friendly everyone had little shot glasses to share. Nothing like warm bourbon that’s been buried in the dirt for a month, haha!!!

Once we showed the behind the scenes of how we get our “veil flowing in the wind” shots, Aaron insisted that he give his own bride a “veil fluff”! I was dying!!! We may have to bring him along to weddings in the future. There is definitely an art to it!

It was so sweet to me seeing Aaron dance with his mom while his dad watched. This family is so special to me, so catching these little moments are even more sweet!

Aaron and Jessica, thank you so much for asking me to capture all of the beautiful moments of your day!!! It may have been a little different than we’d originally planned, but it was gorgeous…and now you get to relax on the beach!!! I can’t wait for you two to come to Wilmington so we can visit all the breweries and eat all the food. Love you two!!!