While I love a huge party filled with family and friends, intimate gatherings hold a special place in my heart. Walking into a wedding day where there is so much space for emotion and not rushing from one place to the next allows for everyone to be so present.

Smaller events do require you to be more intentional, thinking through every moment and how you want to feel. Without the natural anticipation of a larger event (and all of the people involved), smaller events can easily loose their luster—but they don’t have to.

I work with all of my couples to create timelines that allow for them to experience the relaxed feel of a smaller event but with all of the same sweet emotions.

For Shae and Christian, we spent their morning “getting ready” with Shae’s nephews running around playing on the piano, Shae’s mom and sister watching over her maid of honor fluff her veil, and Christian’s mom adjusting his boutonniere.

We took photos on the golf course before heading to their family church, where their closest friends and family gathered waiting for them. Christian greeted all of the guests himself, walking up and down the pews making sure to acknowledge those who arrived before him.

Their ceremony was sweet and filled with messages of what it takes to create a strong foundation in a marriage. They exchanged rings and their first kiss, and when they walked outside, Christian made Shae spin around so he could properly take in the view of his new WIFE.

We took family and bridal party photos and everyone headed on to the country club for dinner while Shae, Christian, and I held back for some photos at the church. It was HOT that day so we opted to do some portraits inside. I just know these photos will grow so much in value as they age and their own children dream of getting married at the same church.

Every wedding day is special and has it’s own unique moments, but these “smaller” weddings help ground and remind me why weddings happen in the first place—to celebrate the journey and uniting of two people, surrounded by their community and the people who helped them get to this point and will continue to support along the way.

Shae and Christian, I absolutely loved being a part of your day. Congratulations!!

VENUE: Walnut Creek Country Club and New Hope Friends Church
COORDINATOR: Lauren Bunn
DECOR: Caroline Hinson
FLORIST: The Town Florist in Princeton
RINGS: Alan Sutton Jewelry
HAIR: Lauren Jessee
MAKEUP: Caroline Mills Artistry
WEDDING DRESS: Simply Blush Bridal
BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Azazie
SUITS: Aries Formal Wear
INVITATIONS: Zazzle and Minted