God works in mysterious ways. When Rachel first contacted me about shooting her wedding, I was already booked {sad!} so I recommended some other photographers to her. A month later my bride moved her wedding date, so I contacted Rachel with absolutely no expectations. I honestly figured she had already hired someone else. But as fate would have it, she hadn’t . . . . her exact reaction? “Fantastic! No, we have not yet secured a photographer and I am excited to hear you are available again!” That made my heart sing! There is absolutely no better feeling than when a couple wants you to be their photographer because they like YOU and your WORK.
Rachel and Shawn’s wedding day started out with less than ideal conditions. In fact, it was downright pouring. But that didn’t dampen Rachel’s spirits at all. We did her and Shawn’s first look under the protection of her parent’s beautiful covered porch and shortly before the ceremony was to start, the rain stopped and we even had a glimmer of sunlight. As I said, God works in mysterious ways.
Rachel and Shawn had an amazing team of professionals working with them, which is one reason they had no worries. Rachel hired Shannon with Shannon Reeves Events as her month-of coordinator. Shannon had everything under control, despite the gloomy weather. The backup plan was in place and ready if needed and Shannon had such a calm demeanor that completely resonated with everyone else. And then there was the crazy-awesome Missy with Missy Gunnels Flowers! I literally died when I saw the bouquet she put together for Rachel.
Rachel and Shawn live in Maui {so jealous!} and her mom lives in Monticello, but that didn’t keep them from going dress shopping together. They met in San Francisco where they found Rachel’s beautiful dress.
Oh Missy, you do such beautiful work! I think this is my favorite bouquet ever!!!
The First Look . . .
. . . and Shawn’s personality really coming out!
Rachel and Shawn had traditional Hawaiian leis brought over from Hawaii and exchanged them before the ceremony. I loved that they had this time just for themselves.
Rachel, you look so beautiful!
Rachel wore the same veil her mom wore on her wedding day, and it matched Rachel’s dress perfectly.
The reception was tented outdoors despite the weather. Instead of one type of centerpiece, Missy and Shannon created multiple corresponding looks. I loved the Southern backyard feel of the entire wedding!
Shawn’s niece put together a slideshow for the couple, which was a complete surprise.
Thank you guys for a wonderful day full of laughter and love! I hope you had a wonderful time in Africa and next time we make it to Maui, I’ll be looking you guys up!
Vendors Who Made It Possible:
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Personal family home in Monticello, FL
Event Coordinator: Shannon with Shannon Reeves Events
Florals: Missy with Missy Gunnels Flowers
Rentals: In Tents Events
DJ: Jon Jon Battles
Cake: Publix (cake flowers were brought from Hawaii by the bride)
Coconut Macarons: Lindels Bakery
Lighting and Sound: Production Support Group
Catering: Carrie Ann & Company
Bartender: Lisa’s Bartenders
Valet Parking: Capital Valet
I love this First Look sequence. Kyle’s reaction may be the best I’ve ever captured during a First Look!
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