When I arrived to photograph Tricia and Clayton's May 17th wedding in Fairhope, one of the first things I heard was the bride asking, "Did you see this beautiful day the Lord made for us?" It made me smile, and it was so, so true. Emma's Bay House provided the charming setting for these nuptials, but it was the view of God's creation every which way that was truly magnificent.
I was singing "This is the Day" in my head while capturing these pretty details. There was so much to rejoice and be glad in, indeed!
When I first met Tricia and her sweet mom a few months ago, they were eager to tell me about the dress, which had been worn by Tricia's mom, her aunt, and her late maternal grandmother. How amazing is that?! What a beautiful way to feel connected to their family legacy.
Can you believe this old dress still looks so good? It can only be described as timeless.
Perhaps this family connectedness was part of the reason Tricia was so calm and collected on her wedding day. Being surrounded by her girlfriends definitely helped, too.
The traditional rose bouquets were perfect for this classy affair.
I was a little obsessed with the classic pink and blue combination the bridesmaids were sporting.
Look at the joy on this bride's face!
Her parents were beaming, too.
Not to mention the whole family. There's not space to share all the precious family portraits, but I can't resist letting you in on this moment between Tricia and her grandfather. He was sharing memories from the first wedding day that featured this dress, and they got a little choked up in the best way possible. (Confession: me, too.)
The groom was not thrilled about having his picture taken, but I think he forgot about the camera for a moment when he saw his beautiful bride.
The wedding party looked so classy...
...and the outdoor ceremony overlooking Mobile Bay could not have been more picturesque.
Earlier, I had overheard one of Tricia's cousins explaining to her paternal grandmother (Nonny, I believe) that the wedding was outside, not in a church. Nonny did not miss a beat before offering a correction: this spot right here is a church. And it sure was! There may not have been a steeple or an altar, but Tricia and Clayton were united in matrimony on holy ground.
The reception celebrating their union was full of sophisticated details...
...from the place cards and centerpieces to the guest book and artwork.
Guests savored a hearty southern meal provided by Bay Gourmet Catering...
...while they took in the stunning views of the garden and the sunset.
The view from the balcony was my favorite, and I am so glad that my fabulous second-shooting husband captured the first dance from up there!
The golden hour light was fleeting, but the party was just getting going!
Check out these dance moves!
I was impressed.
After all that aerobic workout, I'd say these folks deserved a piece of this lovely nautical cake. What a tasty way to end this sweet, sweet day.
Congratulations, Tricia and Clayton! Wishing you a long lifetime full of love.
