When I first met with Scott and Kim, they described their plans for a non-traditional, relaxed wedding day that fit their laid-back personalities. I am so glad I got to capture their day, because those plans came to life perfectly! Camp Wilkes was a casual and unassuming venue that made everyone feel at ease. Who doesn't love summer camp?! Not to mention beautiful Spring weather and sprawling live oak trees on the bayou. It was like a retreat!
The bride and groom had family and friends traveling from near and far, and they wanted to provide a full day of fun for them. In the morning, there were tons of games to play on the lawn at camp.
Croquet seemed to be the most popular! :)
For lunch, they hosted the ultimate Gulf Coast dining experience for the out-of-towners: a crawfish boil, complete with all the fixin's!
The couple didn't mind sharing the spotlight with the father of the groom, who happened to be celebrating his birthday. Carol's Cake's and Catering did a fabulous job with this delicious cake for the occasion.
At the reception hall nearby, I got a glimpse of the details being prepared for later. From the wine-bottle centerpieces to the bouquets by Wanda at Rose's Florist, all the florals were colorful, vibrant, and fun!
For the bride and her nearest and dearest, the action then moved to a lovely suite at the Tux Creek Inn. I loved capturing all the beautiful details, including the shawl that Kim crocheted herself and the wedding band that belonged to Scott's great-grandfather. I love how these personalized touches made the day that much more special.
I can't leave out this very important detail: the dress! Purchased at Jovi's and carefully altered at The Timeless Bride, Kim's wedding gown looked gorgeous.
Kim's friend Lindsay served as the hair and makeup artist, and Deborah, Kim's sister and Matron of Honor, was also on hand to help the bride get wedding-ready.
Then we headed back to peaceful Camp Wilkes!
The bride and groom shared a sweet and intimate first look while guests gathered outside.
Then it was time to get married! The setting was beautiful, and the ceremony was heartfelt, thanks in part to the officiating of Rev. Linda Giardelli and to a graceful reading by a friend of the couple.
And Kim's nephews were such handsome and enthusiastic ring-bearers!
So much love!
Seriously, these two were just glowing with happiness, and it was such fun to photograph these smiles--and kisses, of course!
These photos on this rustic bridge are definitely my favorites.
While we were finishing up portraits, the guests were arriving to the reception hall, which had been decorated with fabulous and fun DIY projects, including colorful lanterns along the back wall and succulent centerpieces created by the bride herself. (I even got to take two of them home!)
The coolest thing about the reception was the unique guestbook. Scott and Kim provided all sorts of art supplies to help their guests get their creative juices flowing! I know they will have fun thumbing through these playful messages. (I wish I had had time to create my own!)
Guests enjoyed a tasty dinner...
...and plenty of joyful fellowship.
Like any great day, this one ended with sweet treats (also by Carol's Cake and Catering.) The cake was pretty, but the bride and groom were more interested in pies of all sorts! I can personally vouch for the delicious cheesecake. ;)
It was such a joy to capture this relaxed and genuine celebration for this precious couple. They both have such kind souls, and I wish them a long and happy life together. Congratulations, Kim & Scott!