Haley and Skyler

Rain is often times a bride’s worst fear. After months of planning and anticipation for beautiful weather (especially for fall-time weddings), nobody wants to see a lovely outdoor wedding ruined by rain. The original plan for Haley and Skyler’s big day was for them to get married under an incredible, long-aged oak tree. When I first arrived  that morning, however, it was pouring buckets. So, I asked, “have you made a final decision on moving the ceremony inside or keeping it under the tree?” and her response was amazing, “rain or shine we will get married under that oak tree!”. I love a bride who pushes through and sticks to her dream ceremony! She had rain boots to wear, umbrellas for everyone, and an encouraging spirt of hopefulness for her day. She had the most inspiring mindset… whether it rained or not, she was dedicated to her dream. 

As the day continued, so did the rain. It poured the entire morning and into the early afternoon, but in a crazy miraculous moment,  just as we were preparing for the first looks and bridal portraits, THE SUN CAME OUT!!! The rain totally disappeared for the rest of the day, clouds and all, and the sun came out shining golden and bright! The golden sky made the day 10 times more exciting and i’ve never seen a happier bride in all my days of shooting weddings. Rain is usually such a scary thought, and a major source of uncertainty for a bride…. but it can be such a fun and unique photo opportunity if you keep the right mindset! And who knows… maybe your rainy day will fade into golden sunshine just like Haley’s. 🙂

Haley and Skyler both got ready in different parts of this farm house located at their venue, Vinewood Stables, which was such a vintage, bright, and elegant place. She and her bridesmaids shared some mimosas, laughter, and a good time while Skyler and his groomsmen all shared in a drink as they suited up. After getting ready, both Skyler and Haley read letters from one another and it was such a sweet moment for them. They got ready and then were off to see each other for the first time that day. 

Haley did a first look with her dad, they shared a lovely emotional moment together, and it was entirely heartwarming. After that, she did her first look with Skyler and it was so incredibly tender. You could see in his eyes that Haley took his breath away and that he was beyond excited to make her his wife later that day! 

After all of the tears and emotions, we did bridal party photos, portraits of the two of them, and individuals of Haley and Skyler. I can’t express enough how sweet this wedding was. One of the biggest contributors to the loveliness of this day was Haley’s bridal party – they were so kind, caring, and willing to be wherever whenever and they made everything fun and easy for the bride and groom. An amazing bridal party makes all the difference! 

The ceremony was gorgeous and happened just like they had envisioned, if not more beautiful. With the sun setting, the sky turned vibrant, warm colors of orange and pink, the flowers in full bloom, and everyones emotions high. I don’t think it could’ve been any better. Later on, we retreated to the gorgeous reception space which was the most beautiful rustic barn with an outdoor bar and patio with hanging lights. Every detail of the evening was executed so well and made for an incredible time of celebration. We did a few quick photos at blue hour of Skyler and Haley having some fun with a smoke bomb which was so unique, and we had a blast just laughing and being creative together. 

The reception was stacked full of personal details, which I always love to see. Someone even crafted a glow in the dark corn hole set for them, and guests played on it for the entire duration of the reception. They also had a section at their cake station full of Haley and her cousin Emily’s favorite snack to support Emily in prayer since she couldn’t be at the wedding due to being diagnosed with leukemia. 

Haley was such a precious bride, and her and Skyler’s day was such a lovely experience from beginning to end. It was obvious from the day I met her that Haley was excited, on top of things, and just ready to have the day of her dreams and marry the man of her dreams, no matter the weather. Sometimes rain doesn’t have to be a fear or an uncertainty. It can actually lead way to moments that would have never happened otherwise! 

Congratulations to Haley and Skylar!

dress : Bridals by Gilbert

planner : A Divine Event

venue : Vinewood Stables

hair + makeup : Samantha Garmon + Lindsey Wales

florals : Southern Stems

videographers : Lovebird Films

food + cake : Mockingbird Co