In October, I had the privilege of photographing my cousin Austin’s marriage to a lovely red-headed soul named Emily. Austin and Emily’s whole wedding took place at Sunny Acres Stables in Greenville, Indiana. The day started with the girls getting ready in a beautiful house on the property while the guys finished getting things ready elsewhere.
I have decided that this is one of my favorite parts of bridal preparation before the wedding. There’s this joyful expectancy in the air, emotions are mounting as bridesmaids and family help the bride put together each piece of her ensemble, and then…she’s ready. Someone gets the mirror, and everyone gathers around this woman they love, as she looks into the mirror for the first time to see herself prepared for her groom. It’s one of those moments that makes it all seem just a little bit more…real. It sinks in just a little bit more–she’s about to get married! It’s really happening, and now she’s ready for it. Gahh, the romance. It plays my heartstrings.
This group of girls was so sweet to work with, and I could tangibly feel the love they have for Emily, especially as they all gathered around to pray for her, before the day’s festivities jumped into full swing. There were lots of happy tears, and lots of sweet sister moments.
Sunny Acres property was a dream to photograph on. Though we had wished for sun, the hazy overcast worked so perfectly with the lush dark green backdrop, and the horses in the background made me want to frolic about with happiness. Once Emily stepped into that scene, it became a fairytale waiting to happen.
And can we talk about how well those dresses went together? Perf!
And of course, no good fairytale is complete without Prince Charming…who is quite a ham in this particular version of the story! But why not? Look at that handsome mug. (I’m allowed to say that; I’m related!)
The bride and groom chose to wait until Emily graced the aisle to see each other, but did share some prayer time from around the corner before making their way to the barn where the ceremony was to be held.
The ceremony took place in the barn on the property. There was hardly enough room to turn around, so many people came out to love this couple!
And this has become one of my favorite parts of a wedding ceremony–the vows. Whether they’re original or traditional, handwritten and read, or repeated after the pastor, I love having a front row seat to watch them gaze into each other’s eyes and promise their love to each other. The overflowing joy they have in that complete commitment to each other shines in their eyes. *sigh* I love love.
Did I mention how much fun this bridal party was to work with? They all meshed so wonderfully together, it was like I was working with one big happy family. Glorious!
And then we made everyone else leave, so we could do the mushy, romantic part of the pictures. 🙂
The day then finished off with (delicious) cake, complete with bride and groom throwing it at each other for good measure, touching first, father/daughter, and mother/son dances, and general merriment into the night.
Thank you, Austin and Emily, for the privilege of capturing your special day! I wish all the best for both of you.
Love,
Kira
