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Hi, I'm Julie ... artist, photographer, potter, etc. I am so happy you are here! I consider this blog my creative journal where I can share my recent work, ideas and dreams, and lots of little details about my life. Please make yourself at home. Whether you are a bride-to-be, a photographer, or just a visitor, I hope you will find inspiration here and even become a friend. |
And now ... for my favorite wedding of the year ... drum roll ~~~~~~~
Claire & Brian
Why my favorite? It's hard to put it into words but I will try. The obvious reasons are evident in the photos. The amazing location, buttery light, stunning details, clever decor, every little piece of this wedding was thoughtful and significant. I see beautiful things at most weddings ... but Claire and Brian's day stands out because despite all of the exceptionally beautiful things at their wedding ... their love for each other was the most spectacular component of the day. Claire was very brave with a lot of her non-traditional choices and I applaud that most of her decisions were based on her and Brian's personality and interests. In other words, the day was about the two of them. I'll give the photos a chance to speak, intermittent with credits to the amazing vendors who were a part of this wedding.
Gorgeous flowers by Brian Davis at Cachepot Floral Design
I really love mother/daughter moments at weddings and this one tops my list of favorites. Claire was doing her mom's make-up ... and Peggy (mom) kept getting tickled and then she couldn't stop. She was laughing so much her eyes were watering and she was crying and it was just one big hilarious mess. Perfect moment.
The excitement of getting the dress on. Yes! And she had every reason to be excited ... Claire's dress was hand-made from scratch by the super-talented Colleen of White Orchid Bridal.
Just down the hall we found some evidence of the groom getting ready ...
Brian was so handsome. His suit was by Coachman Clothiers.
The moment of their first look ... I love the emotion.
This beautiful location is The Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum. Only recently did they start hosting weddings and events and this place is just amazing.
Because Claire and Brian chose to do a first look ... we started with the portraits of the two of them while they were fresh, excited to see each other, and not distracted by much.
When it came to the formal portraits ... while Claire knew those shots were important, she really didn't want to spend a ton of time taking posed pictures. She also really didn't want photos that were stuffy and forced ... which was perfect for my style of shooting. I would rather give people the opportunity to visit with each other, be themselves, and celebrate. I want to tell a story with my photos ... and I loved working with Claire because she allowed me to do that.
I love this hazy shot of a moment between Claire and her dad just before the ceremony began.
The ceremony music was provided by The Lake Terrace Trio
Claire actually asked my my opinion about the best time of day for the ceremony. Since it was going to be outside they knew the sunlight would affect the way the photos would look. Most brides don't really consider this ... but it makes a world of difference in how your images turn out. I suggested to Claire that right before sunset would be perfect. And check out this window of about 10 minutes where the light was absolutely amazing.
Don't you love those moments when you want to cry and laugh all at the same time. Its the best emotion ever.
Claire and Brian's ceremony was one of the sweetest, most heartfelt ceremonies I've seen. Their minister was Mark Nelson (the pastor at Crossings Church). He did a beautiful job with his wording and sentiments. I just love hearing him speak.
I absolutely LOVED the reception set up. The concept was actually Claire's with the help of Brian Davis from Cachepot Floral Design.
And all of this managed to come together flawlessly with the planning and coordination of Lisa M. Krajewski (lisamkrajewski@gmail.com). She worked thoroughly to make sure every little detail was perfect. And she did an amazing job.
This beautifully rustic cake was done by Magpies.
Oh, and the FOOD. This food was out of this world delicious and beautiful! And these are just the appetizers!!! This gorgeous food was done by The Northshore Brasserie. This place is my new favorite. I want to eat there every day. Or I could throw a party every day and have them cater it. Life's troubles have been solved.
And finally ... a good night sparkler exit. I love it with Claire's fur ... and in black and white its so timeless. I love it.
Congratulations and thank you so much to Claire and Brian for honoring me with the task of documenting your wedding. You guys are so beautiful and in love and I am so happy for the two of you. You made me feel so welcome and gave me creative freedom that allowed me to do what I love exactly the way I love to do it. Thank you so much. And Merry Christmas!
