At the reception I was talking to a previous Dakota Hersey couple about weddings and they asked me what is my favorite wedding I’ve ever been to. The answer is really hard (of course) but I have to say it’s the weddings where I’m a repeat guest because I’ve photographed some of the bridal party’s weddings before as well. It feels like a big reunion where I get to see familiar faces, catch up, and it makes the whole day go by so quickly.

That’s how Skylar and Bradley’s wedding felt – though it’s hard for their crews to not make you feel like family! The bridesmaids are ride or die for their best friend Skylar, making sure she had everything she needed and keeping the dance floor packed. The groomsmen were ready HOURS early and were cracking jokes all day. Their families were sweet and totally focused on making their day as memorable as possible.

I mean, what more could you ask for?

Skylar and Bradley really wanted to prioritize their time in the moment with guests so we opted for a timeline that had us get virtually ALL of the photos done prior to the ceremony. It doesn’t always work out to do this but when we can make it happen there is a noticeable shift in the energy – once your party starts, you truly can do whatever you want!

The day started off easy-going with the girls getting ready, followed by tearful first looks with her bridesmaids (who had never even seen the dress on a hanger before!), her dad, and her granddad.

Bradley’s face when he saw his bride was just absolute awe, standing back and twirling her around to see all of the details.

We moved right into bridesmaids, groomsmen, bridal party, and family photos, keeping the energy high with everyone all together. It can be hard to manage that many people but when everyone come prepared it makes it so much easier!!

I told Skylar and Bradley after their ceremony that we may feel more tired than expected but all of the most time-consuming parts were behind us – the BEST feeling.

We took some time to get some gorgeous portraits of the two of them officially as newlyweds and then headed to the reception early to get the party started!!! I had high expectations for this crowd because I know they love to dance and they did not disappoint.

Their day was – so good. Which honestly describes the two of them as a couple perfectly…just really good people. Focused on their faith, family and friends. Focused on each other. Relaxed and completely confident in this step in their journey (a pretty long one since they are high school sweethearts!).

Skylar and Bradley, I am so thankful you asked me to join you for your day. You two have such a comforting love to witness and it’s so easy to capture. I can’t wait to see all that your marriage brings to the world!!!

Thank you to the wedding vendors who made this day beautiful!

VENUE: The Cornealius Properties
COORDINATION: Engaging Events by Wendy
VIDEOGRAPHER: 24K Cinema
FLORALS: Engaging Events by Wendy
HAIR: Cristyl Hood and Laura Lancaster
MAKEUP: Kelly Mercer
DJ: DJ Keith Waller
CATERING: Western Sizzlin
WEDDING DRESS: Simply Blush Bridal
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Azazie
GROOMSMEN SUITS: Aries Formal Wear
INVITATIONS: Accucopy
CAKE: Stay Sweet Bakery
LIVE PAINTER: Savannah Ivey Art