Strickhouser-Reese Wedding (Lauren)

Oh Hannah and Dan. Where should I begin with this amazing couple? I met Hannah in March for a bridal portrait session and couldn't wait to shoot her wedding to Dan at the stunning Claxton Farm in Weaverville, NC. 

In the short time I've known these two, I can tell that they are absolutely made for each other. They tied the knot May 15th, a day that got off to a rainy start, but the clouds cleared and the downpour stopped just in time for Hannah to walk down the aisle. 

It's obvious that these two are crazy in love, and I ended up a little weepy myself during some heartfelt toasts to the newlyweds. 

Hannah and Dan, thank you for including me in your beautiful day. I know you have many happy years ahead of you! 

-Lauren

Dan left a surprise for Hannah: Diamond earrings and a card. The envelope read "The Love of my Life"

Dan's best man takes his time fishing around for the rings in his jacket pocket (below).

Hannah gets a big hug from her mother moments after saying "i do." (below)

Dan sings to his bride during their first dance (below).

Love the lovebird cake-toppers!

During the reception and after the sun went down, the newlyweds stood in the field where they said their vows earlier in the day, dancing together in the dark (below).

Congratulations, Dan and Hannah!

Another thanks to my assistant, Giedre, who was a fabulous addition to the day!

Williams-Hodges Wedding

This past Saturday, May 22, I spent the day with Amanda Williams and Derek Hodges at their wedding in Morganton, NC. Amanda and Derek were married at the First Baptist Church in Morganton. 

I really had a fun time with Amanda, Derek and their friends and family. I felt like this wedding was full of the purest type of energy and love and I really hope that I was able to capture it all on film. 

The day started early with hair and make-up.

One of the flower girls watches Amanda and her sister, Angela put on make-up (below).

I loved the lavender bouquets! 

Amanda and her bridesmaids!

I also want to say that Amanda's very talented mother, Corlis, made these beautiful bridesmaids dresses! 

Meanwhile, Derek gets ready with the men. 

Amanda saw a photo that she liked on my blog here where we had the couple hold hands before the ceremony without letting them see each other. 

Amanda and her father, Tom, before entering the church (above).

The flower girl paves the way with lavender (above).

This was a really sweet moment (below) when Amanda saw her friend and they both started crying. 

The First Baptist Church of Morganton is a really pretty church and I enjoyed shooting there. 

Presenting for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Derek Hodges!

After the ceremony, the wedding party gathered on the balcony while guests exited. There were a lot of congratulations shared!

While we were shooting family photos, Derek stole a quick kiss from his bride (below)!

Derek and Amanda had a candy bar where guests "shared in their sweet beginnings"

Cheerwine was given to all the guests (above) and the best man, Ryan, gave his speech (below).

A very sweet first dance!

Father/Daughter (above) and Mother/Son (below) dances

The garter fell directly in the hands of one of Derek's groomsmen (below).

Derek was not a big fan of the bubbles!! I love the above photo because the expressions on Amanda and Derek's face couldn't possibly be any more different! Amanda gazes playfully at the surrounding bubbles while Derek winces! 

Derek and Amanda give a final farewell wave to family and friends and head off to their honeymoon (below). 

Thanks so much to Derek and Amanda and their friends and family for letting me be a part of all the festivities on Saturday. 

Another big thanks to my assistant, Brittany (below), seen below photographing the flower girl.