January 24, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

The Old Woolen Mill Wedding, Cleveland | Abbey + Graham

Abbey and Graham, holy cow. What a sweet couple from start to finish. Before I get into the wedding and photos, let me tell you just one thing. Abbey and Graham ended their wedding reception at Weaver's Room at The Old Woolen Mill in Cleveland (TN) dancing and screaming “You make my heart explode!” from The Terror Pigeon Dance Revolt!’s song “Ride Friendship.” If each couple and wedding had its own theme song, this is the perfect one for these two. I won’t judge if you play it while you scroll through their gallery. 😉 Enjoy!

Bride and groom cuddle in the bleachers, her hand in his hair and her bouquet next to them.

 

Ahead of their wedding, I ask each couple to complete a questionnaire so I get a few important phone numbers, a shot-list, and some other wedding day details. On my questionnaire, I also ask for the couple to share an abridged version of their love story with me. Abbey and Graham have built a friendship over the past 9 years. At a few points, they wanted to start dating, but the timing never seemed to work out. Once they decided to finally go for it, it didn’t take them long to realize they wanted to be partners for life. No matter the complications, the joy would be worth it!

 

How to set the tone for your wedding, Part 1: Location

Abbey and Graham planned their wedding ceremony in a former elementary school gymnasium. Yes, you read that correctly. The school now houses several non-profits, including the couple’s church, so they felt right at home hosting their wedding here. 

I love what Abbey wrote about their ceremony location on her blog. “Being in a gymnasium for our wedding speaks to the youthfulness of mine and Graham’s relationship. We’re a couple of weirdos crushing on one another, who just like playing together.” (Is your heart exploding yet?!)

Shaking things up a little bit from a traditional processional, the couple's parents walked them each to meet under the wedding arch at the same time. Abbey and Graham used this moment to symbolize equal forces coming together and the efforts they and their families have made to bring the moment of their marriage into fruition.

Sign posted in the window of a brown door announcing Abbey and Graham's wedding

Simple copper pipe wedding arch draped with white linen in front of gymnasium bleachers

String patio lights strung along orange metal railing

Groom walking arm-in-arm with his mother and father while friends sing in balcony behind him

Bride walking arm-in-arm with her mother and father while friends sing in balcony behind her

Man in white shirt hugs woman in green dress while others hug behind them

flat lay of Abbey and Graham's wedding day programs surrounded by white flower petals

bride, groom, and minister stand under a simple copper pipe wedding arch in front of wooden bleachers in a gymnasium

Groom smiles at bride, his best man behind him and several wedding attendants watch from gym bleachers

Bride smiles at groom, her maid of honor behind her and several wedding attendants watch from gym bleachers

Groom slides a rind onto bride's finger while their minister reads from his book and wedding attendants watch

Bride and groom kiss beneath a simple copper wedding arch. Their wedding party looks on and claps.

Bride and groom and their wedding part pose in front of wooden school gymnasium bleachers

Groom looks up at his much taller best man as they stand beneath a simple copper wedding arch

Bride and bridesmaids twirl in their dresses in front of simple copper wedding arch in front of wooden gymnasium bleachers

Bride and her bridesmaids in light green or amber-colored dresses stand beneath the simple, copper pipe wedding arch

Bride and bridesmaids elevate groom who poses with his hands under his chin

Bride and groom and their best man and maid of honor make silly faces under their wedding arch

 

Setting the tone for your wedding, Part 2: Florals
AKA Southerly Flower Farm with another big win

The team at Southerly Flower Farm created stunning floral arrangements for this wedding. Stunning. It’s hard to match a couple’s feelings of play and whimsy with a bridal bouquet, and Southerly Flower Farm nailed it. From the floral displays on the simple, copper pipe wedding arch to the reception centerpieces, each piece is a beautiful part of the playful tone of Abbey and Graham’s wedding story. Abbey wore custom earrings from Olie & Co. which paired perfectly with the flowers in her hair. They were so cool! And I smile every time I see that close-up of Graham's pink flower tie. Such unique details for these two.

Between the florals and the shockingly beautiful lighting, I’m still totally floored at how gorgeous this wedding was. 

Bride and groom smile while holding her Southerly Flower Farm bouquet, their simple copper wedding arch in the background

Bride and groom smile as they walk through a school gym, their simple copper wedding arch in the background

Bride and groom look at each other as they walk through a school gym

Bride tucks her hair behind her ear to reveal her Olie & Co. custom polymer clay earrings

Bride's hair filled with Southerly Flower Farm pink and peach floral accents

Groom in khakis, pink tie, and sport coat and bride in simple, long-sleeve white dress below simple copper pipe wedding arch

Groom poses in the corner of a gymnasium with his hands in his pockets.

Groom holds lapels the of his suit coat. He wears a white shirt and pink tie with floral details.

bride and groom kiss in front of a brick wall

Bride in simple, long-sleeve wedding gazes at groom in the sunlight next to a basketball court

Bride and groom laugh together. She puts a hand on her chest, and he scratches his bearded chin.

Bride and groom kiss next to a brick building. She wears a mixed Southerly Flower Farm bouquet in her hair.

Bride and groom walk along brick building with the shadow of a basketball goal behind them

Bride in simple, long-sleeve wedding dress holds her bouquet at a basketball court

Bride and groom stand against white cement block wall

Bride and groom walk along the top row of wooden gymnasium bleachers

bride and groom snuggle on wooden gymnasium bleachers with her Southerly Flower Farm bouquet next to them

bride and groom sit kissing on wooden gymnasium bleachers with her Southerly Flower Farm bouquet next to them

bride and groom sit kissing on wooden gymnasium bleachers with her Southerly Flower Farm bouquet next to them

bride and groom sit on wooden gymnasium bleachers with her Southerly Flower Farm bouquet next to them

Bride in long-sleeve dress lies on wooden bleachers in school gymnasium, her bouquet next to her

Bride in long-sleeve dress lies on wooden bleachers in school gymnasium

Man in khakis and sport coat sits on wooden bleachers

Southerly Flower Farm bridal bouquet with ribbons sitting on steps of wooden bleachers

Bride lays with her head in groom's lap as he strokes her hair on wooden bleachers in a school gymnasium

Bride lays with her head in groom's lap as he strokes her hair on wooden bleachers in a school gymnasium

bride and groom look at each other under a basketball hoop in a shadowy gymnasium

bride and groom dance together under a basketball hoop in a shadowy gymnasium

 

Weaver's Room at The Old Woolen Mill, Cleveland, TN

The Cleveland Woolen Mill was constructed in the late 1800s, but it went out of use in the 1970s. Recently the mill has been restored and given new purpose, including hosting wedding receptions, for instance.

At their reception, the couple presented a barbecue buffet for dinner, and Birch Tree Boba set up a boba tea stand. Such a fun addition to a reception! And Abbey's father made their wedding cake, which completely blows my mind. Abbey and Graham brought the copper pipe arch from their ceremony, set it up against an exposed brick wall, and created a photo booth for their guests. Several friends and family members gave emotional and heart-warming toasts, moving both Graham and Abbey to tears.

 

Setting the tone for your wedding and reception, Part 3: Music

On the wedding questionnaire, Abbey and Graham confessed that their biggest priority in planning their wedding was creating the perfect playlist for their reception! (Admittedly would probably be a main priority for me, too. Ha!) The couple is musical, so instead of a traditional “wedding party,” they had a “wedding chorus” of about 20 people. During the processional, the wedding chorus sang a song that Abbey and Graham had written together. 

Later, at their reception at Weaver's Room at The Old Woolen Mill, Cleveland, Graham and his mom set a sentimental pace with an acoustic version of Cindy Lauper’s “Time After Time.” Abbey and her dad danced together to a Billy Joel song they both really love. Then Graham and Abbey broke it down to Youth Lagoon’s “17.″ 

When the rest of the crowd joins them out on the dance floor, you can tell the night’s just not gonna end anytime soon. And as I look back through the photos from their reception, I think their playlist was very well received!

I started this blog by telling you how this wedding ended. So I'll end with that as well. After Niel and Jen from The Terror Pigeon Dance Revolt! led the crowd in their song “Ride Friendship,” Abbey and Graham headed into the night through a tunnel of sparklers.

 

Groom and his mother dance under the exposed rafters and beams of Weaver's Room at The Old Woolen Mill in Cleveland Tennessee

Groom and mother dance while bride and father dance under exposed rafters and beams at The Old Woolen Mill in Cleveland, TN

Bride and father dance under exposed rafters and beams at The Old Woolen Mill in Cleveland, TN

Bride and groom dance with their foreheads touching, her hand on his shoulder and his hand at her waist.

Groom looks at bride share their first dance under exposed rafters and beams during their reception at The Old Woolen Mill

Groom and bride share their first dance during their reception at The Old Woolen Mill, a restored warehouse in Cleveland TN

Bride and groom dance during their wedding reception

Bride and groom stand before their wedding guests under string patio lights across exposed rafters of a restored warehouse

Multiple barbecue sauces lined up at the end of a table

People serving themselves from buffet in front of an exposed brick wall at The Old Woolen Mill

Two women sign the large blank pages of a guest book, one fills the page with hearts

Birch Tree Boba employee scoops boba pearls into a cup of tea during a wedding reception in Cleveland, TN

Birch Tree Boba cup of tea with dark boba pearls next to box of straws

Southerly Flower Farm reception table centerpiece with low terra cotta planter and wild flowers next to "Mrs & Mr" sign

Simple Southerly Flower Farm reception table centerpiece sits between small empty glass bottles and sign for guests

Bride holds up bottle of Laphroaig scotch before toasts

Best Man and Maid of Honor hold microphone and stand in front of exposed brick wall to deliver toasts

Bride and groom sit at a table with amber-colored tablecloth in front of a shiplap wall strung with patio string lights

Two men in suits toast with plastic cups of beer

Bride and groom sit in front of shiplap wall at The Old Woolen Mill. He holds his mouth emotionally.

Bride and groom sit in front of shiplap wall. She tears up with emotion.

Bride wearing long-sleeve wedding dress with buttons up the back hugs a woman

Bride and groom cut into 3-tier cake topped with cream puffs

Groom hand-feeds bride cake next to their 3-tier cake topped with cream puffs

Bride snuggles into groom's shoulder, and he turns into her forehead

Man cuts slices of wedding sheet cake and puts them onto plates

Bride sways in her long-sleeve dress with buttons up the back. She has lots of flowers in the back of her hair.

Bride sways in her long-sleeve dress as guests begin to dance around her

Bride and wedding guests dance during wedding reception at The Old Woolen Mill in Cleveland, TN

Bride is encircled by several friends who hold hands around here. They all sing.

Groom points at bride as they dance together with friends around them at The Old Woolen Mill

Bride and groom hold onto each other's hands as they sit on top of their friends' shoulders

Two women hug and laugh, one raises her cup in a toast

Woman in red dress dances with her hands around a man's neck

Two men in purple shirts hold hands and dance

Man and woman dance under lights during wedding reception at Weaver's Room in The Old Woolen Mill in Cleveland, Tennessee

Man and woman dance under lights during wedding reception

Groom and friend dance encircled by friends

Bride and bridesmaid dance alone in a corner

Man and woman dance next to round dining table

Man and woman sing and dance under lights at a wedding reception

Bride leaps into the air while dancing with friends

Bride and groom dance, and he plays an air saxophone while friends play other air instruments

Bride and groom dance with their friends

Bride and groom dance and jump with friends under a large purple parachute

Group of friends form a tight cluster under lights

Tight cluster of friends jumps and dances together

Bride and groom walk between rows of their friends extending sparklers into the night sky

Bride and groom kiss in the middle of their sparkler exit, she kicks a foot up behind her

Bride and groom hold hands and kiss under sparklers, she holds a hand over her heart

Abbey and Graham, You make my heart explode. You’re alive! You’re in love! You’ve got hope just because! (from “Ride Friendship”) Thank you for the honor of documenting this part of your love story.

 

 

Thank you to the venues and vendors who helped create a memorable day for Abbey and Graham:

Florals: Southerly Flower Farm
Venue: Weaver's Room at The Old Woolen Mill
Custom earrings: Olie & Co.
Boba stand: Birch Tree Boba
Day-of Event Coordinator: Billie Burns

 

Sometimes I feel like I'm a professional wedding crasher. When I look through these galleries days, weeks, or months later, I still connect to the emotional energy of that day. I hope you do, too. As your friendly Chattanooga wedding photographer, my aim is to capture the feelings of your day as well as the moments themselves. If you're hoping for this sort of storytelling on your wedding day, contact me! I'd love to treat you to coffee to see if we're a good fit.

 

Hi, y'all! I'm Rachael Crowe of OKCrowe Photography. I hope you enjoyed looking at through Abbey and Graham's gallery. For a few minutes there at the end of this reception, I felt like I was at a concert photography gig! What a fun time. If you liked Abbey and Graham's alternative to a traditional church wedding, you might also like Margaret and Garrison's Bohemian Festival Wedding or Liz and Andrew's elopement in Zion National Park. I love finding new locations to get creative with you!

Published by Rachael Crowe in Featured, Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, Cleveland TN wedding photographer, The Old Woolen Mill wedding

January 19, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

Raccoon Mountain Sunset Engagement | Tess + Webb

I’ll be shooting Tess and Webb’s wedding at The Homestead at Cloudland Station later this year, and if that’s anything like their Raccoon Mountain sunset engagement session, it’s gonna be a good one (see other weddings I've shot at The Homestead at Cloudland Station)!

Man in light blue suit and glasses leans in to kiss woman at golden hour during Raccoon Mountain engagement session

 

Raccoon Mountain, not just for caving and mountain biking

When Tess contacted me about engagement portraits, she wanted to give me some creative liberty and to style her and Webb a little for the photos. I suggested a flowy gown and more formal outfit and an outfit change mid-session to vary the tone of things a bit. The couple wanted a mix of water and mountain scenery, and I knew Raccoon Mountain offered both features. I knew we also had the possibility of an incredible sunset for their engagement portraits, so we scheduled our timing with this in mind.

If you haven’t been up to Raccoon Mountain, you really need to go exploring. It’s a little tricky to find info online about the park. Raccoon Mountain is technically part of TVA’s hydroelectric system, and the other sort of main draw is the cavern system underground. But above ground is a huge reservoir surrounded by a 1-way loop drive with a couple of unreal overlook spots! You’ll just have to take my photo evidence here as proof that you need to get up there and check it out. 

We began the evening with their more formal outfits, and I got some shots of Tess and Webb in the woods. With such incredible scenery coming up, I really wanted to capture these two in a more “neutral” setting, something that wouldn’t be too distracting from the couple. This also helped Tess and Webb get used to my direction and cues.

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand beneath tall trees on Raccoon Mountain

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress hold hands beneath tall trees

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand beneath tall trees

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand beneath tall trees on Raccoon Mountain

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand beneath tall trees

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand beneath tall trees

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress kiss beneath tall trees

Man in light blue suit and woman in white lacy dress stand hugging, looking at each other beneath tall trees

Man leans over woman's shoulder, almost kissing her neck while they both smile

 

Mountainside serenade

I always encourage my couple’s to bring something special with them as a way to personalize their session. Webb brought his guitar because he plays a lot of open-mic nights, and Tess is always there to cheer him on. Music is something the two have bonded over, and it was really cute to watch him serenade her as part of their engagement portraits.

Man leans over woman's shoulder, hugging her, while they both smile

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks near woods. He plays a guitar while she smiles.

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks. He plays a guitar while she smiles.

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks. He plays a guitar while she smiles.

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks. He plays a guitar while she smiles.

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks. He plays a guitar while she smiles.

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks. He plays a guitar while she smiles.

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks. He plays a guitar while she smiles.

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks. He plays a guitar while she smiles.

Man in light blue suit and woman in strapless white dress sit on large rocks. She plays a guitar as he reaches over the frets

Diamond engagement ring sits on guitar frets

 

A sunset engagement session on Raccoon Mountain

The sky start to change, and we knew it was time to work in some of those amazing sunset shots. This light still kills me. We definitely got in those mountain views that Tess wanted in her engagement portraits with Webb! Haha! I am over the moon at the swoon-worthy close-up shots as the couple leans in for that kiss.

After photos at the overlook, Tess and Webb changed into their less formal outfits. We did some styled, more moody photos on the loop drive around the reservoir. If you ask me, Tess couldn’t have picked a better dress to match that sky.

Man in light blue suit and woman in flowing lacy white dress kiss at sunset with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man in light blue suit dips woman in flowing lacy white dress at sunset with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man in light blue suit dips woman in flowing lacy white dress at sunset with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man in light blue suit twirls woman in flowing lacy white dress at sunset with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man in light blue suit twirls woman in flowing lacy white dress at sunset with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man leans over woman's shoulder, almost kissing her neck while they both smile. Behind them the sun sets over several hills.

Man in light blue suit picks up woman in flowing lacy white dress with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man leans over woman's shoulder, almost kissing her neck while they both smile. Behind them the sun sets over several hills.

Man leans over woman's shoulder, almost kissing her neck while they both smile. Behind them the sun sets over several hills.

Man leans over woman's shoulder, almost kissing her neck while they both smile

Man in light blue suit picks up woman in flowing lacy white dress with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man in light blue suit picks up woman in flowing lacy white dress with rolling Tennessee Valley hills behind them

Man in light blue suit and glasses leans nose-to-nose with woman at sunset during Raccoon Mountain engagement session

Man in light blue suit and glasses leans nose-to-nose with woman at sunset during Raccoon Mountain engagement session

Man in light blue suit and glasses leans nose-to-nose with woman at sunset during Raccoon Mountain engagement session

Man in light blue suit and glasses leans in to kiss woman at golden hour during Raccoon Mountain engagement session

Man and woman walk hand-in-hand on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour. She carries a bouquet of white flowers.

Man and woman walk hand-in-hand on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour. She carries a bouquet of white flowers.

Man and woman stands hand-in-hand on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour. She holds a bouquet of white flowers.

Man uncorks champagne and champagne sprays out. Woman in pink dress stands next to him laughing.

Man uncorks champagne and champagne sprays out. Woman in pink dress stands next to him laughing.

Man drinks champagne from the bottle. Woman in pink dress stands next to him laughing.

Man and woman stand next to each other on paved road near metal guardrail. She holds champagne bottle and laughs.

Man and woman stand hand-in-hand on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour.

Man and woman stand hand-in-hand on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour.

Man and woman stand kissing on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour.

Man and woman walk hand-in-hand on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive at golden hour. He has a guitar hung over his shoulder.

Man and woman walk on paved road at golden hour. He strums a guitar hung over his shoulder.

Man and woman walk on paved road. He strums a guitar hung over his shoulder.

Man dips woman in long pink dress back and kisses her at golden hour on Raccoon Mountain's loop drive

Tess and Webb, thanks for the creative freedom for your engagement portraits! Can’t wait till the wedding! 

 

 

Researching where to have your engagement portraits taken? We’ve got so many amazing locations within a pretty short drive from Chattanooga! Raccoon Mountain is only about 20 minutes from downtown. And don’t forget, I’m always ready to book tickets to meet you in your dream destination! CONTACT ME, your friendly Chattanooga wedding photographer, so we can start planning!

Hi, there! I'm Rachael Crowe of OKCrowe Photography, and I hope you enjoyed seeing Tess and Webb's engagement photos. In need of your own engagement session inspiration? Consider my Top 5 Chattanooga Engagement Photo Locations. Or interested in a couple’s portrait session out of town? I do that, too! Check out Liz and Brock’s Joshua Tree Adventure couple's session.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Engagements
Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, couple's session, Tennessee wedding photographer

January 18, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

DUMBO Brooklyn Engagement Session | Emily + Jim

I was planning a summertime New York City vacation when Emily and Jim’s request to book me for their Lookout Mountain Destination Wedding hit my inbox. The couple, originally from the Southeast, now lives in New York City, so I contacted them about doing a “portfolio-slash-engagement session” while I was on my trip. These two were totally on board with modeling for me! I hope you enjoy their DUMBO Brooklyn engagement session photos. 

Man and woman sit on large rocks near water with New York City scape behind them

 

Southeast Meets Northeast

Emily and Jim met while attending Auburn University in Alabama about 7 years ago. They now live in New York City in a ridiculously stylish studio apartment. While planning their wedding, they decided to return to their roots in the Southeast and have a Lookout Mountain “destination wedding” in Chattanooga. You can see photos of their wedding on my blog.

So, back to New York City and this stylish couple. First, we met together at their apartment. I was excited to take some at-home photos of them before our walking portrait session in Dumbo. We chatted about their wedding plans and what they still needed to line up. Planning a destination wedding is tricky, and I was happy to help them with Chattanooga wedding vendor recommendations. 

Woman sits on man's lap in front of a large black and blue painting as they laugh. They're surrounded by large plants.

Woman sits on man's lap in front of a large black and blue painting as they cuddle. They're surrounded by large plants.

Man and woman cuddle, holding hands

Man and woman hold hands and cross the street in a zebra-striped crosswalk

Woman in flowing, white sundress holds hands with man in blue floral shirt and white trousers as they walk down the sidewalk

 

DUMBO Brooklyn Engagement Session

After getting some ideas nailed down, we left their apartment, picked up some champagne, and began our photo adventure in New York City's Dumbo area. Emily works in fashion, and I loved the dress she chose for this shoot! Side note: I’ve sort of always wanted to use the phrase “works in fashion” in a real life scenario.

Sooo, by the way, DUMBO stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” something I’m really glad I Googled. Ha! Got a little bit nerdy researching Dumbo Brooklyn, too. The bridge in these photos is actually the Brooklyn Bridge, not to make things more confusing. Also, Brooklyn Bridge engagement photos in Dumbo New York City...is this my real life?!! I’d love to shoot in New York more, so if you live there or you want to travel there for a session, I’m already on board. *WINK*

We popped the champagne at golden hour in the streets of Dumbo and walked along the edge of the water. New York City is absolutely huge. If you’re looking for where to have an engagement session in New York’s Dumbo neighborhood, just walk down the street! You'll find so many little nooks and crannies and sidewalks and side streets for amazing photos. It’s unreal.

The weather was a dream, not too hot and not too cold, and look at that perfect perfect golden light. I heard that a gorgeous New York City sunset is rare, so I felt especially lucky to have one during Emily and Jim's session.

Man and woman stand in front of glass door refrigerators with various types of wine and champagne

Man and woman hold hands and walk toward waterfront. Sun shines through her white cotton sundress.

Man and woman hold hands and walk between black metal fencing.

Man and woman hold hands and walk in front of a black, metal fence along waterfront. New York City skyline is behind them.

Man and woman hold hands and walk in front of a black, metal fence along waterfront. New York City skyline is behind them.

Man and woman hold hands and walk in front of a black, metal fence along waterfront. New York City skyline is behind them.

Man and woman hold hands and walk in front of a black, metal fence along waterfront. New York City skyline is behind them.

Man and woman pop open a bottle of champagne in Dumbo New York City with Brooklyn Bridge in background

Man sprays champagne on a cobblestone street of Dumbo Brooklyn while woman places her hand on his shoulder, laughing.

Woman in strapless white sundress drinks champagne from the bottle while man watches during Dumbo Brooklyn engagement session

Man and woman hold hands, smiling at each other, while walking down brick street with Brooklyn Bridge in the background

Shadowy side street leads to the Brooklyn Bridget lit with sunlight

Man's arm with silver watch and woman's arm with simple, large diamond ring. Brooklyn Bridge in the background.

Man and woman kiss on a brick street with Brooklyn Bridge in the background

Woman bends backward while man stretches to plant a kiss on her throat

Man and woman run down the sidewalk next to cobblestone street near the Brooklyn Bridge

Man carries woman on the sidewalk during their engagement session in Dumbo Brooklyn near the Brooklyn Bridge

Man carries woman on the sidewalk during their engagement session in Dumbo Brooklyn near the Brooklyn Bridge

Man and woman hold each other on the sidewalk during their engagement session in Dumbo Brooklyn near the Brooklyn Bridge

Man and woman hold each other on the sidewalk during their engagement session in Dumbo Brooklyn near the Brooklyn Bridge

Man and woman kiss on the sidewalk during their engagement session in Dumbo Brooklyn near the Brooklyn Bridge

Man and woman cuddle on large rocks at the East River in New York City

Man and woman cuddle on large rocks at the East River in New York City

Man and woman cuddle on large rocks at the East River in New York City

Man and woman cuddle on large rocks at the East River in New York City

Man and woman holding each other under the Brooklyn Bridge during Dumbo Brooklyn engagement session

Man and woman stand gazing at the sunset under the Brooklyn Bridge during Dumbo Brooklyn engagement session

Man and woman stand on large rocks next to the East River under the Brooklyn Bridge during Dumbo Brooklyn engagement session

Man and woman stand gazing at the sunset under the Brooklyn Bridge during Dumbo Brooklyn engagement session

Man and woman cuddle on large rocks beside the East River in Brooklyn New York City

Man and woman cuddle on large rocks beside the East River in Brooklyn New York City

Man and woman sit on large rocks next to the East River with the Brooklyn Bridge behind them

Man and woman stand under a tree looking at each other, their arms looped around each other

Man holds woman in white sundress near water with New York City buildings in the background

Man kisses woman's shoulder while they sit on large rocks waterside with New York City scape in background

Man and woman cuddle on large rocks waterside with New York City scape in background

Man and woman hold hands and walk along large rocks waterside with New York City scape in background

Man twirls woman in white sundress near water with New York City scape behind them

Woman cuddles man over his shoulder during golden hour

Woman cuddles man from behind during golden hour in front of New York City scape

man and woman walking hand-in-hand toward the Brooklyn Bridge

 

How to feel comfortable with your wedding photographer

I had so much fun giving these two cues during our shoot. As a photographer, it's awesome to work with a couple with an easy-going, fun-loving approach to the portrait session!  

I know I’ve said it before, but the trust between a photographer and couple is such a big deal. Some of that comes naturally, just a relaxed chemistry between the three of us, but oftentimes the trust develops from sessions like this one before the actual wedding day. Especially if you’re nervous in front of cameras, it’s so important to become at ease with your wedding photographer!

I always like to invite couples to meet with me for coffee or dinner or a drink before the BIG WEDDING DAY because it helps us get comfortable with each other. It’s nice to be human together for a little bit and establish a bond over common interests outside of the pressure of such an important day. So, yeah. Fill out the form and let’s grab coffee. 😉

 

 

If you’re thinking about a couple’s session or engagement portraits--in Chattanooga or New York City or the other side of the world--I’d be thrilled to photograph you and your boo. Contact me, your friendly Chattanooga wedding photographer, so we can meet up and grab that drink.

If you loved looking through Emily and Jim’s “portrait-slash-engagement” photos, you might also be inspired by Liz and Brock’s Joshua Tree adventure shoot. Not sure what to wear to your engagement session, I’ve got you covered! 

Published by Rachael Crowe in Engagements, Travel
Tags: Chattanooga engagement photographer, couple's session, New York City wedding photographer, Tennessee wedding photographer

January 15, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

Winter Wedding at The Turnbull | Martha + Geoff

Martha and Geoff's winter wedding at The Turnbull made me realize something: spring and fall seasons get so much of the wedding rush, but there’s something cool (ha!) and ...pristine maybe? about a winter wedding. Maybe it’s just because it’s January right now, and everything seems like it’s beginning again. Things feel fresh and new. So, yeah! New year, new marriage! And a wedding at The Turnbull Building in Chattanooga, TN...I am here for it. I can’t wait for you to see how gorgeous this couple is in these downtown Chattanooga scenes.

Bride and groom under covered walkway between brick archways

 

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Wedding Ceremony

Martha and Geoff held their ceremony at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church downtown where they are members. This building was constructed in the 1800s, and it’s on the National Register of Historic Buildings! Holy cow, it has such interesting architecture and gorgeous stained glass windows. My favorite parts of this property are actually the memorial garden and labyrinth! And I love how the alcoves and covered walkways create a feeling of seclusion and peace in the first-look photos and bride and groom portraits.

Note: It was important to Martha and Geoff to have their ceremony in their home church of St. Paul’s, but the church has a policy against photographers in the main sanctuary. You’ll notice that all my ceremony shots are from the back of the room or the balcony which were the areas I was allowed to access. While this isn’t completely prohibitive, if you’re looking for more close-up ceremony photography, be sure your photographer is able to access the whole space. If you’re currently planning a wedding, double check with your venues about photographer access!

Bride and groom nuzzle under covered walkway between brick archways

Bride and groom nuzzle under covered walkway between brick archways

Bride and groom share first look under covered walkway between brick archways

Bride and groom under covered walkway between brick archways

Bride and groom under covered walkway between brick archways

Groom kisses bride's cheek under covered walkway between brick archways

Bride wears high-collared, three-quarter-length lace wedding dress holds bouquet of white and peach flowers

Groom holds lapels of his tuxedo with a white boutonniere pinned on his chest

Bride in lace wedding dress looks at bouquet of white and peach flowers; groom wears plaid cummerbund under his tuxedo jacket

Bride and her father stand under gray winter sky in front of antique brick church

Bride waits at the back of red-carpeted aisle while flower girl and ring bearer walk toward altar

Bride and father walk central aisle as guests begin to stand from wooden pews for processional

Sanctuary with brick walls, wooden pews, and red carpet of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Chattanooga, TN

Priest and attendants watch father kiss his daughter's cheek at the altar of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Chattanooga, TN

Bride and groom sit in wooden pews across the red-carpeted aisle during their wedding ceremony at St. Pauls Episcopal Church

Bride and groom stand before priest as he reads from the Bible during their wedding ceremony

Bride slides ring onto groom's finger while attendants and priest look on

Bride and groom kneel at altar while priest reads Scripture during their wedding ceremony

Bride and groom kiss at the altar in front of priest at their St. Paul's Episcopal Church wedding in downtown Chattanooga

Bride and groom hold hands and walk the red-carpeted aisle while guests stand and clap

Family photo with bride and groom in front of the doors of St. Paul's Episcopal Church wedding in downtown Chattanooga

Bride and groom silhouette against stained glass window

Bride and groom kiss in shadowy hallway between stained glass windows

Bride and groom kiss in front of stained glass window

 

Bride and Groom portraits in West Village Chattanooga

Because they opted for a first look, we were able to do all of Martha and Geoff's portraits before the ceremony so they could go straight to the reception. We went to Chattanooga’s West Village for the portraits. This part of the city recently experienced some revitalization and rebranding, and now it sets a nice urban scene for photos. Martha and Geoff wanted a calm, easy-going portrait session, and I think we pulled that off pretty well. They had a family friend bring their dogs over to the church for some photos, too!

Bride and groom descending cement steps toward sidewalk

Bride and groom walk the sidewalk in Chattanooga's West Village

Bride and groom smile at each other in Chattanooga's West Village

Bride and groom hold hands in Chattanooga's West Village. She holds a bouquet of white and peach flowers

Bride and groom hold hands in Chattanooga's West Village. She holds a bouquet of white and peach flowers

Bride and groom cuddle, her hand under his arm and the other on his shoulder.

Bride and groom smile at each other between downtown buildings as her veil swirls around them.

Bride and groom kiss in the middle of the road between downtown buildings. Her veil blows in the wind.

Bride and groom cuddle on brick steps. She wears a white lace bodice gown and holds a bouquet of white and peach flowers

Bride and groom kiss while sitting on brick steps. She wears a white lace bodice gown

Groom cuddles bride over her shoulders while he kisses her cheek

Bride and groom hold hands and cross the street in West Village Chattanooga. She holds a bouquet of white and peach flowers

Bride and groom hold hands and cross the street in West Village Chattanooga. She holds a bouquet of white and peach flowers

Bride and groom hold their family dogs in front of St Paul's Episcopal Church

Bride and groom hold their family dogs in front of St Paul's Episcopal Church

Bride wearing lace bodice wedding gown holds a bouquet of white and peach flowers and greenery

Bride and groom take a turn around the labyrinth at St Paul's Episcopal Church in downtown Chattanooga

Bride and groom smile at each other under her veil.

Bride and groom kiss under her veil, her ring hand on his shoulder.

Bride and groom ride in the back of a white jeep

 

Wedding Reception at The Turnbull

After the ceremony, Martha and Geoff headed over the The Turnbull Building to host their wedding reception. The Turnbull, located between Chattanooga’s Southside and the Riverfront, is another building on the National Register of Historic Places! 

If you’re looking for a beautiful historic wedding venue in Chattanooga, TN, this one has an amazing, urban industrial vibe. Gorgeous, huge windows and cool architectural elements like exposed beams and brick interior walls. Chattanooga winters can be pretty gray, but if you’re planning a winter wedding at The Turnbull, you’ll love how the wood tones warm up this space. I especially liked how Fox and Fern decked out the rafters and beams with flowers and greenery for this reception. The Turnbull Building at its finest. 

Martha and Geoff planned a relaxed, casual reception. Their priority was to spend time with their guests and catch up with family and hang out with friends, so they limited some of the typical reception activities in order to do that. They hired Love, Peace & Happiness Band for live music to get people out on the dance floor, and of course we enjoyed the heck outta the glow sticks! All in all, it was a really classy, relaxed day.

White plastic sign with changeable letters welcome bride and groom to The Turnbull Building wedding reception

Live band musical equipment on the stage at The Turnbull Building's wedding hall

Round tables surrounded by exposed wooden beams and large windows furnish The Turnbull Building's wedding hall

The Turnbull Building's wedding hall with wood finishes, exposed beams, and large windows

Chalkboard in front of round tables with white tablecloths under large windows and exposed beams at The Turnbull Building

Colorful customized koozies with white sketches of pet faces and names

Colorful customized koozies with white sketches of pet faces and names

Tabletop vase with bouquet of white hydrangeas, peonies, roses and pink peony with greenery

Bouquet of white hydrangeas, peonies, roses and pink peony with greenery

Platter with cream and jam-topped biscuits next to "Events with Taste" napkins

Serving tongs on a platter with soft shell tacos next to a platter of pulled pork sliders

Forks and sandwich platter at front of long buffet table under tall windows and exposed brick walls of The Turnbull Building

Three white frosted layer cakes surrounded by greenery and tabletop signs labeling yellow, red velvet, and sour cream cakes

Tabletop sign printed with "Sour cream coconut" in front of greenery and a white cake topped with flowers

Tabletop sign printed with "Red velvet cream cheese icing" in front of white frosted cake

Several small white and pink flowers top a cake covered in coconut flakes

Bride and groom smile and cut into their white frosted cake together

Bride's hands surround groom's as they cut into their white frosted cake with pink peony on top

Bride holds a small plate while groom holds knife in front of white frosted cake

Bride and groom hold a plate of bright red red velvet cake for their first taste at their wedding at The Turnbull Building

Red velvet cake with thick white frosting with small piece cut away is topped with light pink peony

Bride and groom dance alone on wooden dance floor under exposed beams of The Turnbull Building while guests watch

Bride and groom dance in front of live band under exposed beams and large windows at their wedding at The Turnbull Building

Groom sings to bride during their first dance while live band plays behind them.

Bride and her father dance under exposed beams and ductwork at wedding at The Turnbull Building in Chattanooga TN

Groom and his mother dance under exposed beams and ductwork at wedding at The Turnbull Building in Chattanooga TN

Woman and small boy dance on wooden dance floor

Band plays on stage for wedding guests under exposed beams and ductwork at wedding at The Turnbull Building in Chattanooga TN

Man wearing black vest and striped tie sings into microphone; another man wearing paisley vest plays bass guitar

Woman plays soprano sax into microphone while tenor sax suspends around her neck

Man plays electric guitar while wearing a yellow glow stick as a halo

Bride and friends wearing glow sticks like halos under industrial exposed ductwork in warehouse wedding reception

Wedding guests dance in a circle with the bride and groom; greenery hangs from exposed beams at The Turnbull Building

Man and woman wearing glow sticks as halos. She holds neon green glasses in front of her eyes

Wedding guests dancing under industrial exposed ductwork

Bride and groom onstage with wedding band. The singer holds a microphone in one hand and tambourine overhead with the other

Back of bride as she's onstage with a band, speaking to wedding guests at The Turnbull

Bride and several female friends sing and dance on band's stage while groom and guests watch and dance on the dance floor

Bride and several female friends sing and dance on band's stage while the band sings and plays at The Turnbull in Chattanooga

The Turnbull Building in downtown Chattanooga, TN at night, lights glowing along brick exterior

The Turnbull Building in downtown Chattanooga, TN at night, lights glowing along brick exterior

Bride and groom dance in a dark room under the glow of a few spotlights

Martha and Geoff, photographing your wedding and reception was such a pleasure. I wish you all the happiness in the world!

 

Many thanks to the vendors and venues who made Martha and Geoff's wedding at The Turnbull so gorgeous and memorable!

Ceremony venue: St. Paul's Episcopal Church
Reception venue: The Turnbull Building
Florals: Fox and Fern
Band: Love, Peace & Happiness Band
Coordinator: Wildflower Wedding Planning
Catering: Events with Taste
Dress: BLHDN

As a Chattanooga wedding photographer, I really love getting to explore so many corners of this city and see them in light of each couple. Whether you're planning your big day downtown or in the 'burbs, CONTACT ME. I’d love to plan with you!

 

If you loved Martha and Geoff’s wedding in the city, definitely check out Brian and Tiffany’s Chattanooga Whiskey’s Event Hall wedding or Danielle and Alex’s wedding at The Church on Main. And check out my Top 5 Chattanooga Engagement Photo Locations if you're looking for some recommendations around town for your portraits.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, St. Paul's Episcopal Church Chattanooga wedding, Tennessee wedding photographer, The Turnbull Building wedding reception

January 12, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

Creative Arts Guild Wedding Dalton, GA | Keelan + Ana

Creative Arts Guild wedding, a wonderful fit

First of all, Keelan and Ana have been together since high school--HIGH SCHOOL! How’s that for romance?! I really enjoyed getting to be a part of their sweet love story. They held both their wedding and reception at the Creative Arts Guild in Dalton, the oldest multidisciplinary community arts center in Georgia! Such a cool community resource for visual, performance, and cultural arts in our area. And, honestly, a perfect location for this free-spirited, festive wedding.

Bride looks at the camera while groom kisses her cheek. Her white floral bouquet cascades over his shoulder.

 

A throwback to high school

Ok, before I tell you about the wedding, I have to tell you what I found out during a bridesmaid’s speech at the reception. On their first date--in high school, remember--Ana’s mom was waiting in a movie theater parking lot to pick up Ana. From the car, Mom saw them kissing! When Ana got in the car, Mom teased her about “kissing that boy,” and Ana was like, “MOM. That was our first kiss!” Little did Mom know she’d be witnessing their first kiss as husband and wife a few years later.

Front entrance of Creative Arts Guild in Dalton Georgia

Man sits with eyes closed while a friend holds hair dryer and shapes his hair

Man wearing glasses buttons his dark suit with blue mosaic tie contrasting against white shirt

Man holds paper with his wedding vows. His dark suit and blue floral mosaic tie contrast.

Bridesmaids dresses in various blue tones hang on hooks on a deep brown wall

Bride's gown on a hanger labeled "bride" hangs on a cream colored wall.

Woman sits in a blue silk dressing gown having her cheeks dusted with blush

Mother of the bride stands behind her daughter, zipping her lace off-the-shoulder gown. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame them.

Mother of the bride stands behind her daughter, straightening her lace off-the-shoulder gown

 

Should you do a first look before your wedding?

Keelan and Ana planned a first look before their ceremony. Watch how Keelan’s entire face and body language shift when he sees Ana. Heart-melting.

A first look on your wedding day allows you to have an honest, intimate reaction with your partner without all of your guests watching. You have some moments with just the two of you together (and your low-key paparazzo photog 😉 ) to settle from the busyness and magnitude of the day.

The main reason why I, as a wedding photographer, love when couples plan for a first look? Because of reactions like Keelan’s!

Groom turns toward bride for first look and covers his eyes as he begins to cry

Bride covers her mouth as groom wipes his eyes during their tearful first look.

Bride and groom hug, her hand gripping the back of his shoulder.

Bride and groom wipe their eyes after a tearful first look. She wears a veil tucked into her floral crown

Bride clears grooms eyes, her veil blowing in a breeze

Bride and groom cuddle under crepe myrtles. She holds a large bouquet of white flowers and eucalyptus leaves.

Bride and groom cuddle under crepe myrtles. She holds a large bouquet of white flowers and eucalyptus leaves.

 

High school sweethearts walk the aisle

If you know anything about weddings, you know there’s always something random that goes wrong at the final moments. As Ana’s mom was getting dressed for the wedding, her dress’s zipper ripped! I ran out to my car, grabbed my emergency sewing kit, and I literally sewed Ana’s mom into her dress. I joked that she’d have to have someone cut her out of it when the night was over, but I’m so thankful that Ana’s mom just went with it.  

Ana’s dad walked her down the aisle. Even though they had already seen each other, Keelan teared up again as his bride came toward him.

During the ceremony, Keelan and Ana exchanged vows in front of a simple and beautiful arch. They planted a tree together instead of lighting a traditional unity candle. I really liked this idea so much!

Flower girl wears a white flower crown and another has a white barrette in her hair

Groom and groomsmen stand under a large skylight near an octagonal wedding arch

Bride walks down the aisle, escorted by her father who wears a cowboy hat.

Officiant and best man reach toward groom who is wiping tears from his eyes.

Bride walks down the aisle, escorted by her father who wears a cowboy hat.

Bride and groom face each other, holding hands under octagonal wedding arch, the officiant reading behind them.

Bride and groom plant a tree together in a white pot their Creative Arts Guild wedding in Dalton, Georgia.

Bride and groom under octagonal wedding arch face their guests. Bridesmaids and groomsmen clap and cheer behind them

Bride and groom kiss with guests clapping behind them. She holds a white flower and eucalyptus greens bouquet.

Bride in white gown hugs bridesmaid in blue dress, white flower in each of their dark hair.

Bride with white and green bouquet stands with ring bearers and flower girls in front of an octagonal wedding arch.

Bride and groom with their families under a skylight at their Creative Arts Guild wedding in Dalton, Georgia.

Bride laughing with bridesmaids. They wear various shads of blue and hold white and green bouquets under a skylight.

Bride laughing with bridesmaids. They wear various shads of blue and hold white and green bouquets under a skylight.

Bride and groom kiss, surrounded by their wedding party outside the Creative Arts Guild in Dalton, Georgia.

Bride wears a lacy white gown and white flower crown in her dark hair. She holds white floral bouquet and eucalyptus greens.

Bride and groom portraits at Creative Arts Guild wedding

Man, wearing dark-rimmed glasses and smile, grasps lapels of a dark suit, a mosaic blue tie contrasts against white shirt.

Bride wears a white flower crown in her dark hair. She looks down at her white floral bouquet with eucalyptus greens.

Bride and groom kiss in front of the Creative Arts Guild in Dalton, Georgia. Her white bouquet falls over his shoulder.

Bride and groom stand facing each other, cuddling their noses to each other. Her white bouquet falls over his shoulder.

Groom sits looking up at bride who is standing on statue flaring her skirt at Creative Arts Guild wedding in Dalton, Georgia.

 

Mariachi band at Creative Arts Guild wedding

After the ceremony, the party moved outside for the reception. You guys, Keelan and Ana hired a mariachi band for the reception, and I LOVED it. The band kept the mood so festive and fun, and Ana even danced with her father to the band’s music! The wedding party gave moving, heartfelt speeches and toasts, and I was blown away by the outpouring of love for this couple.

Although the reception area was very simply decorated, the space was pretty perfect for the reception. The white walls and string lights created a bright backdrop, and the setting photographed beautifully. It's always a bonus as a photographer to not have to compete with different angles to get the good shots.

Ana and Keelan are huge fans of everything vintage, especially cars! Photo booths are always fun, but a converted VW bus photo booth is even cooler and made total sense for them. This kept guests busy, laughing and posing for some fun shots of their own.

Mariachi band plays and sings table-side for guests during Creative Arts Guild wedding reception in Dalton, Georgia

Mariachi band plays and sings table-side for guests during Creative Arts Guild wedding reception in Dalton, Georgia

Bride and groom enter their reception as husband and white, his arms outstretched to the guests

Husband and wife first dance under white string patio lights during wedding reception

Husband and wife kiss during first dance at their outdoor Creative Arts Guild wedding reception in Dalton, Georgia.

Husband and wife first dance during wedding reception. She cuddles into his chest under white string patio lights

Husband and wife first dance during wedding reception. She cuddles into his chest under white string patio lights

Bride and groom sit with wedding party at their reception behind "Mr" and "Mrs" platters. White and green bouquet on table.

Bride and groom sit at a table and raise their champagne glasses in a toast

Wedding reception table details: Retro camera sits inside a blue picture frame. Globe sits on top of books.

Three-tier white wedding cake sitting on a silver cake stand, each layer set off by eucalyptus leaves

People line up for turns in a photo booth in the back seat of a Volkswagon van at a wedding at Creative Arts Guild in Dalton

Three people sit in the back seat of a Volkswagon van-turned-photo booth at a wedding at Creative Arts Guild in Dalton, GA

Bride and groom cut into their 3-tier white wedding cake, each layer offset by eucalyptus leaves.

 

What to do when your sparkler exit goes south

At the end of the night, we had planned to do a sparkler exit, but the sky started turning really dark. We could see a storm coming, so I started getting guests ready for the sparkler exit. Suddenly, we were in the middle of a monster storm with a crazy sky, lightning, and insane winds! The wind knocked over the DJ’s speakers and flipped over tables. Talk about intense! Everyone rushed inside to get safe.

I applied some creative thinking to this exit since we couldn’t use sparklers in the building. Instead, I had the wedding guests turn on their cell phone flashlights, and we created our own makeshift-sparkler exit using some drag shutter magic. Keelan and Ana were so flexible about the quick-change, and they ran through the tunnel for a really cute exit! 

It made my heart soar that Keelan and Ana trusted me, not just in the midst of a storm, but with documenting their whole day!

Bride and groom exit through a makeshift "sparkler" tunnel. Guests hold cellphones to light their way.

Bride and groom kiss under a makeshift "sparkler" tunnel. Guests hold cellphones to light their way.

Bride and groom exit through a makeshift "sparkler" tunnel. Guests hold cellphones to light their way.

Bride and groom exit through a makeshift "sparkler" tunnel. Guests hold cellphones to light their way.

 

Vendors and shout outs:

Venue: Creative Arts Guild
Photo Booth: Sunkissed Photo Bus
Mom: I have to give one more extra shout-out to Ana’s mom. She’d been following me on Facebook for awhile, and she’s who recommended me to Ana to photograph this wedding! What a HUGE compliment. Really, I appreciate you so much for bringing me into such a precious family event.

Y’all feel free to share my social feeds (Facebook + Instagram) or my blog to anyone you know who’s getting married or engaged or eloping or planning family photos or looking for a commercial or concert photographer. 😉 Ha! I just want to take all the photos. Thanks for giving me the opportunities!

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, Creative Arts Guild wedding, Georgia wedding photographer

January 9, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

Intimate Elopement Chattanooga | Courtney + Tanner

Eloping with family

When Courtney and Tanner received Tanner’s orders to relocate to a new base, they decided to hold an intimate elopement on the family farm before they moved. The couple booked me for a 2-hour session to capture their ceremony, some family photos, and their bride and groom portraits.

Groom in military dress uniform holds his bride's hand as they smile at each other

Tanner’s family’s land was the perfect spot for their simple ceremony. The property has been in his family for 100 years! Planning a small intimate wedding, Courtney and Tanner invited only their immediate family members. One family member officiated, another prepared a reading, and the others stood nearby. What a sweet, special ceremony. Truly--so sweet.

Bride and groom stand facing each other holding hands and exchanging vows in front of antique family cabin front porch

Bride and groom face each other holding hands in front of antique cabin porch during their elopement ceremony

Bride and groom facing each other holding hands in front of antique family cabin porch while family members stand nearby

Bride and groom face each other holding hands in front of antique family cabin porch at their intimate elopement wedding

Bride and groom facing each other holding hands in front of antique family cabin porch

Bride and groom facing each other holding hands in front of antique family cabin porch

Bride and groom share their first kiss in front of antique family cabin porch during their small intimate wedding

Bride and groom holding hands face their family members

Bride and groom stand with their family members in front of antique family cabin front porch

Bride and groom stand with their family members after their intimate elopement ceremony

Groom jumps on officiant's back in celebration and bride receives kiss on cheek from her mother

 

Bride and Groom portraits on the farm

Following their ceremony and family portraits, we wandered the family’s property for their bride and groom photo session. Tanner looked so polished in his dress uniform, and I LOVE the custom “Bride” denim jacket Courtney had made for their day.

Bride and groom stand facing each other in front of antique family cabin's front porch

Bride and groom place hands on top of bouquet, her hand on top showing off her wedding ring

Bride and groom share a dance in front of greenery, his head bowed over to kiss her

Bride and groom share a dance in front of greenery, they look into each other's faces

Bride and groom share a dance in front of greenery

Bride stands holding her bouquet in front of her smiling down at it, trees in the background

Groom smiling in his military dress uniform and hat

Groom in his military dress uniform holds his hat in one hand. Bride smiles over her shoulder with bouquet at her side.

Bride and groom stand arm in arm. He wears a military dress uniform, and she wears a customized bride denim jacket.

Bride and groom stand arm in arm. He wears a military dress uniform, and she wears a customized bride denim jacket.

Bride wearing simple white dress and groom wearing military dress uniform and hat cuddle and kiss in front of greenery.

Groom in military dress uniform holds his bride's hand as they smile at each other

Bride wearing simple white dress and groom wearing military dress uniform and hat cuddle and kiss in front of greenery.

Groom wearing military dress uniform and hat leans down so his bride can reach his cheek for a kiss.

Groom in military dress uniform holds bride over his shoulder while she laughs.

Bride and groom hold hands while walking down the middle of the road.

Bride and groom cuddle arm-in-arm in front of antique family cabin after their intimate elopement

Bride and groom cuddle arm-in-arm in front of antique family cabin after their intimate elopement

Bride and groom hold hands and look at each other in front of antique family cabin after their intimate elopement

Bride and groom hold hands in front of antique family cabin's front porch after their intimate elopement

 

The beauty of an intimate elopement

I’ve witnessed my fair share of weddings, y’all. They’re as individual as each couple, and this day was no different.

Courtney and Tanner opted for nothing fancy, nothing extravagant. His dress uniform, a bouquet of flowers, a simple wedding dress, and a denim jacket. And honestly, it was all they really needed because they were so beautiful and so in love. Their sweet love is what really shined in their photos. Can you see it, too?

Groom in military dress uniform holds his bride's hand as they smile at each other

Bride holds her bouquet in front of her, white flowers and greenery with champagne colored ribbons blowing in the breeze.

Bride and groom hold hands, walking away. He wears a military dress uniform, and she wears a customized bride denim jacket

Bride kisses groom while wearing her customized bride denim jacket with the word "Bride" painted across the back

Groom in military dress uniform holds his bride in his arms. She wears his military cap and holds a bouquet at her side.

 

 

NO MATTER HOW SMALL, EACH WEDDING IS A BIG DEAL. IF YOU’RE PLANNING A SMALL INTIMATE WEDDING OR ELOPEMENT, I’D LOVE TO DOCUMENT YOUR BIG DAY. CONTACT ME, YOUR GO-TO CHATTANOOGA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER, AND WE CAN START PLANNING TODAY!

 

 

If you loved looking through these photos of Courtney and Tanner’s intimate elopement, you might also be inspired by Bridget and Alex’s intimate wedding at Fall Creek Falls or Liz and Andrew’s elopement in Zion National Park.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga backyard wedding photographer, Chattanooga elopement photographer, Chattanooga farm wedding photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, Tennessee wedding photographer

January 9, 2020 — Comments are off for this post.

Lookout Mountain Destination Wedding | Jim + Emily

You know I love to travel to photograph a wedding, but, as a Chattanooga wedding photographer, there’s something really special about a couple choosing my own city for their big day! That’s exactly what Emily and Jim did. Although they’re both from the Southeast, Emily and Jim live in New York City (Brooklyn) now. When they considered destinations, a Lookout Mountain wedding with downtown Chattanooga wedding reception took the cake. 😉 

bride and groom hug and touch foreheads under strands of backyard lights at downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee wedding reception

 

A destination wedding in Chattanooga, Tennessee?

Yes! Chattanooga proved to be a perfect location for their wedding and reception. It's close enough for Jim’s Alabama family, practically down the street from where Emily grew up, and accessible by direct flights for all their New York friends. Talk about an all-around win!

This couple was a lot of fun from the beginning to the end of the day. They got ready at The Westin Chattanooga with downtown Chattanooga setting the scene in the background, and as the bride and groom dressed, some of the fine details of their day began to emerge. 

man straightens polka dot tie knot while woman sits in feather-fringed slip in blue chair in front of floor to ceiling window

Father pinning boutonnière to groom's jacket and groom standing with right hand on lapel

Woman in white feather-hemmed slip laughing in front of floor to ceiling window and mother fastening waist on wedding dress

Bride stands in front of floor to ceiling window looking over left shoulder while mother fastens waist of wedding dress

Mother's hands fastening waistband of bride's backless tulle wedding dress

Bride with bouquet in front of floor-to-ceiling window overlooking downtown Chattanooga while friends take photos

Emily’s backless gown from Gabriella Bridal with layers of satin and tulle, and Jim’s steel blue suit and polka dot tie. And THEIR SHOES! I can’t wait for you to see their shoes! Emily’s dress offered a peek of her bumblebee tattoo, which served as inspiration for their day with bumblebee details popping up throughout the wedding and reception.

woman with bumblebee tattoo wearing backless wedding dress leaning into a window overlooking downtown Chattanooga

Bride sitting in chair while friends help her buckle her stacked heels

Bride hugging her family's dog and gold bumblebees painted on the back of groom's shoes

Bride and two friends enjoy shots in hotel lobby bar

Bride and two friends enjoy shots in hotel lobby bar

 

Lookout Mountain Wedding Ceremony

Emily and Jim’s ceremony took place on Lookout Mountain at the Rock City group pavilion. The covered, open-air venue provided me with tons of natural light for shooting, and the park-like scenery was a gorgeous backdrop. Emily’s grandmother designed all the floral arrangements for the wedding, as well as the floral garland over the wedding arch.

Groom with mother and father walking down the aisle toward his bride at Lookout Mountain wedding open-air pavilion ceremony

Two bridesemaids in champagne gowns walking down the aisle during Lookout Mountain wedding in open-air pavilion

Bride and her father walking down the aisle toward groom during Lookout Mountain Chattanooga, Tennessee wedding ceremony

Back of bride and her father during giving-away portion of Lookout Mountain Chattanooga Tennesse wedding ceremony.

Bride and groom under floral arch at the front of a Lookout Mountain wedding open-air pavilion in Chattanooga Tennessee

 

All ceremonies are individual and special, and this one was no different. During most ceremonies, the bridal party stands with the bride and groom; however, during this one, they sat with other friends and family. Without extra folks in the shot, the simple lines of the pavilion and wedding arch elegantly frame Jim and Emily. As a photographer, this is almost one of those things you don’t fully notice or appreciate until you’re in editing mode!

Bride and groom stand with minister under simple floral archway during Lookout Mountain Chattanooga Tennessee wedding ceremony

Bride and groom stand with minister under simple floral archway during Lookout Mountain Chattanooga Tennessee wedding ceremony

Bride and groom stand with minister under simple floral archway during Lookout Mountain Chattanooga Tennessee wedding ceremony

Bride reads vows to groom under simple floral archway during Lookout Mountain Chattanooga Tennessee wedding ceremony

Bride slides ring onto groom's finger under simple floral archway during Lookout Mountain wedding ceremony

Bride and groom look into each other's eyes while minister looks on during Lookout Mountain Chattanooga Tennessee wedding

Bride and groom with heads bowed together during prayer during their Lookout Mountain Chattanooga Tennessee wedding ceremony

 

The couple exchanged tender looks and heartfelt promises in front of their family and loved ones, including their favorite pooch. And, at the moment of their kiss, the officiant stepped aside so you can see how comfortably Jim and Emily fit together.

Bride and groom kiss under simple floral archway during open-air Lookout Mountain wedding ceremony in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride raises bouquet in victory solute during Lookout Mountain wedding ceremony in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride and groom stop for a deep kiss during their recession after their Lookout Mountain wedding in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride and groom hug after their Lookout Mountain wedding near downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee, her bouquet over his shoulder

Bride and groom with family after Lookout Mountain wedding ceremony in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride and groom with family after Lookout Mountain wedding ceremony in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride and groom with family after Lookout Mountain wedding ceremony in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride laughs with grandparents after Lookout Mountain wedding ceremony in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Groomsman stoops to pet the family dog in front of bride and groom

Bride and groom with family after Lookout Mountain wedding ceremony in Chattanooga, Tennessee

 

Bride and Groom Portraits at Sunset Rock, Lookout Mountain

Following the ceremony we’d planned some time for bride and groom portraits out at Sunset Rock, which you might remember as one of my Top 5 Chattanooga Engagement Photo Locations! Y’all. Remember what I said about the shoes?! Don’t worry--Emily did not hike to Sunset Rock in those incredible heels! I know you were wondering. 

Bride and groom standing side-by-side on a dirt trail with the sun streaming through surrounding tall trees at Sunset Rock

Bride and groom standing side-by-side on a dirt trail with the sun streaming through surrounding tall trees at Sunset Rock

Bride and groom snuggle nose-to-nose under bride's veil at Sunset Rock in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride and groom snuggle nose-to-nose under bride's veil at Sunset Rock in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Groom kisses bride on the cheek under bride's veil at Sunset Rock in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Close-up of bride's emerald cut diamond ring as bride and groom snuggle nose-to-nose under bride's veil

Bride and groom kiss under bride's veil, her left hand on his chest

Bride and groom hug under her veil in the woods at bride and groom portrait session on Sunset Rock in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride displays stacked heels under her wedding gown during bride and groom portraits at Sunset Rock in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride holding bouquet looks over her right shoulder into the woods during portraits at Sunset Rock in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride and groom American Gothic portrait at Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain wedding in Chattanooga, Tennessee

 

I love how Emily’s bouquet cascades down Jim’s back when they hug. SO DREAMY. Grandma for the win.

 

Bride and groom hug each other tightly at Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain overlooking Chattanooga, Tennessee

Bride and groom snuggle atop Sunset Rock after their wedding on Lookout Mountain, her legs across his lap.

Bride's hand with emerald cut ring over groom's hand with wedding band.

Bride and groom snuggle atop Sunset Rock after their wedding on Lookout Mountain, her legs across his lap.

Bride and groom at Sunset Rock after their Lookout Mountain wedding ceremony near Chattanooga, Tennessee

 

Downtown Chattanooga Wedding Reception

Once we finished the portraits at Sunset Rock, we joined up with the rest of the guests in downtown Chattanooga, where Jim and Emily hosted their candlelit reception at Alleia. The space was a terrific fit for Jim and Emily’s classy and modern aesthetic. And can we talk just a sec about those cakes? Sweet Angel Cakes created both simple, elegant cakes, and they suited the couple’s style perfectly.

Bride and groom walk into downtown Chattanooga candlelit reception with arms raised

Simple wedding cake surrounded by white flowers and candles, elegant groom's cake with chocolate ganache and berries on top

Groom playfully reaches to feed bride a bite of wedding cake

Bride playfully reaches to feed groom a bite of wedding cake while he holds her hand

Bride and groom hug after cake cutting, fingers covered in cake and frosting

Bride and groom smile at each other during their first dance at their downtown Chattanooga wedding reception

Bride and her father enjoy a dance together while wedding guests watch

Groom smiles widely as he twirls his mother during their dance at wedding reception

Personalized green wedding koozies with bumblebee printed on side

Groom stands in his shirtsleeves with his arms around 2 friends during downtown Chattanooga wedding reception

Bride and wedding guest sing to each other during downtown Chattanooga wedding reception

Wedding guests sing and dance with glow sticks during downtown Chattanooga wedding reception

Wedding guests sing and dance with glow sticks during downtown Chattanooga wedding reception

Groom stands behind bride her arm around his neck while they sing to each other during downtown Chattanooga wedding reception

Wedding guests sing and dance with glow sticks during downtown Chattanooga wedding reception

Groom and friends stand together during Chattanooga wedding reception

Bride and groom hold each other and kiss while guests dance around them at their downtown Chattanooga wedding reception

Bride holds bouquet above her shoulder, getting ready to toss it to wedding guests

Wedding guests laugh as one woman catches the bride's bouquet

 

After a delicious dinner, the couple led the rest of the crowd onto the dance floor for live music from Oh No Stereo and hours of dancing! Between all the food and dancing, I was able to sneak the bride and groom away to Alleia’s private patio for a quick photo session. I needed to see that tulle in action. Who doesn’t love a good twirl? 

Bride and groom share a private dance outdoors under patio string lights at the end of their downtown Chattanooga wedding

Bride and groom share a private dance outdoors under patio string lights at the end of their downtown Chattanooga wedding

 

Sparkler Send-off in Downtown Chattanooga

At the end of the evening, Jim and Emily’s family and friends gathered for a sparkler send-off, and OMG look at these smiles. A couple more kisses and twirls to make this wedding photographer’s entire night.

Bride and groom walk through sparkler send-off at the end of their downtown Chattanooga wedding reception

Groom twirls bride amidst sparkler send-off at the end of their downtown Chattanooga wedding reception

Bride and groom share a final kiss of the evening during sparkler send-off after their downtown Chattanooga wedding

Jim and Em, thank you for letting me be part of your beautiful Chattanooga wedding day. Many congratulations!

Vendors for this Lookout Mountain Destination Wedding

Thank you to the following vendors:

Getting ready venue: The Westin Chattanooga
Ceremony venue: Rock City Group Pavillion
Bride and groom portrait venue: Sunset Rock, Lookout Mountain
Reception venue: Alleia
Band: Oh No Stereo
Cake: Sweet Angel Cakes, Toni Doster Repko
Gown: Gabriella Bridal
Wedding coordinator: Jessica Ann Wedding Co.
Florals: Emily's grandmother

 

Thinking of a destination wedding in Chattanooga or the greater Chattanooga area?
CONTACT ME, your friendly Chattanooga wedding photographer, so we can start planning!

As a local Chattanoogan, I can tell you one thing for sure: the Chattanooga area is a wonderful place to get married. If you’re looking for astonishing scenery (intimate wedding at Fall Creek Falls), or wonderful venues (Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall wedding), or both (DeBarge Vineyard wedding), keep Chattanooga on your wedding bucket list.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Featured, Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, Destination wedding photographer, Lookout Mountain wedding, Sunset Rock, Tennessee wedding photographer

December 9, 2019 — Comments are off for this post.

Zion Winter Elopement | Liz + Andrew

This wedding day totally affirmed my love for offbeat, out-of-the-ordinary weddings! Liz and Andrew’s snowy Zion winter elopement was so incredible that I can’t wait to experience more elopement days with my engaged couples! 

Liz and Andrew are the coolest, most easy-going and fun couple! We traveled to Zion National Park for their last-minute elopement. Even though it wasn’t what they had originally planned, the day turned out to be so beautiful and so them. 

Groom dips bride for a kiss in front of red cliffs as snow falls around them. Brides veil streams behind her.

 

Traditional wedding plans become untraditional elopement plans

Liz had been following me on social media for awhile after she’d seen me in action shooting some of her friend’s weddings. When she and Andrew got engaged, we started chatting back and forth about their May wedding plans. While they had considered eloping, they knew that their families would be sad about not being included. I gave her some tips and encouraged her to go with her gut and be untraditional, but she was still hesitant.

A little while later, when I was unable to attend a bridal show, I passed my tickets to Liz. She and Andrew walked into the show, and they immediately felt waves of overwhelm (holla if that’s you!). They turned right around and walked out! In that instant, they decided that they would elope instead, so they went home and cancelled all of their wedding plans.

Bride and groom standing close to each other, his hand caress her neck while they laugh

Bride and groom high-five each other, laughing as snow falls around them.

 

Planning a last-minute elopement

I was in Maine for a session when I got her email telling me that they were cancelling their May wedding and had decided to elope in Zion National Park the following month. I was like “WAIT...Hold up! WHAT?! Can you get married in Zion National Park?” After some quick research, I replied to her email with, “Uhhhh….I can shoot your elopement in Zion! And I’ll help you plan it!”

With only three weeks’ notice, we planned their whole elopement together: I bought my plane ticket, got permits to photograph inside the National Park, and sorted out a local officiant. Side note: Getting to add--and then check off--Zion National Park elopement photography to my bucket list was awesome!

Snow dusted cliffs and valleys of Zion National Park

Bridal party hikes under huge red cliffs to Canyon Overlook in Zion National Park

 

Zion National Park winter elopement

Also known as: Getting married in a snowstorm!

When I landed in Salt Lake City, I met up with Liz and Andrew and a few of the friends they’d invited out. Everyone was welcoming, easy going, and so chill. While they went skiing and snowboarding, I ran a few errands and picked up Liz’s bouquet. 

On elopement day, we woke up super early to drive the five hours from Salt Lake City to Zion National Park. It was snowing hard on the way there, and quickly turned into a blizzard. Luckily, I come prepared for any weather situations, so I had thick socks, hand-warmers, extra gloves...you name it!

Once we arrived to a private property just outside of Zion National Park, we were struck by the gorgeous views. We met the officiant we’d hired, and Liz and Andrew got dressed--in the cold and snow--on either side of the car so they wouldn’t see each other. The best part about an outdoor elopement in the winter? When you can pull up the hem of your dress to reveal your thick, wool socks and hiking boots underneath!

Bride and groom driving a curvy road toward red cliffs

A friend buttons the back of bride's strapless lacy dress next to a car

Bride stands in her strapless lacy gown beside black car holding her veil high overhead

Bride dressed in lacy gown, long veil, pink fur coat and snow boots prepares her bouquet with friends

Bride in strapless, lacy dress holds her bouquet with other arm open wide. She lifts her gown to reveal snow boots

 

Bride and Groom First Look Surprise

The couple wanted to do a private first look, and, as I was telling Liz to go tap Andrew on the shoulder to signal to him to turn around, her eyes lit up and she said, “Can I slap him on the ass?!” I busted out laughing and said, “OMG, yes!” She responded with a “Hell yeah!” and smacked him hard! His reaction was sooo funny! He laughed and then teared up in the same moment. 

The officiant led us to the ceremony spot, and their elopement ceremony was so sweet and very super chill, just like them. It really fit their personalities so well, which was extra special. I loved being part of this wedding-turned-elopement for so many reasons, but these incredible moments when everything just feels...right...that’s what it’s about.

Groom stands overlooking a cliff. Bride walks toward him for their private first look before a snowy Zion elopement ceremony

Groom stands overlooking a cliff. Bride wearing lacy strapless dress and long veil walks toward him for private first look

Bride wearing lacy strapless dress and long veil sneaks up on groom for first look and slaps his butt

Bride and groom see each other for the first time, laughing and admiring how each other look in their wedding attire

Groom laughs when ride pulls up the hem of her strapless, lacy wedding gown to reveal high wool socks and snow boots.

Groom wearing a blue suit with red polka dot tie and pocket square laughs with bride

Groom wearing a blue suit with red polka dot tie and pocket square holds bride wearing a strapless lace gown and long veil

Bride and a few friends hike up a large rock toward scraggly pine trees and shrubs

Bride and groom walk to the edge of a cliff to exchange vows, her veil streaming behind her

Bride and groom hold hands and exchange vows on a cliffside while two friends witness

Bride and groom hold hands and exchange vows on a cliffside in Zion

Bride and groom hold hands and exchange vows during their elopement ceremony on a cliff while a few friends watch

Bride and groom hold hands and exchange vows on a cliffside in Zion

Bride and groom kiss on the edge of a cliff with a foggy snowy sky

wedding rings perched on a wild cactus in Zion National Park

Bride and groom holding hands on the rocks of Zion National Park, snowy fog rolling over the red cliffs in the background

 

Bride and Groom Portraits at Canyon Overlook in Zion National Park

Also known as: Bride and groom portraits in a white-out! 

After the ceremony, we did some group portraits and then headed into Zion National Park. By this point, it was snowing pretty heavily. Originally, we’d planned to hike to Angels Landing, one of the top 3 viewpoints in Zion, but the snow and wind were crazy. So I did some quick research, and we found another overlook that was a shorter, safer hike. 

We grabbed our things and hiked over to Canyon Overlook. When we arrived at the overlook, it was a whiteout! As in: we couldn’t see more than a few feet in front of our faces. The ground was also very slippery, which definitely leveled up the “adventure” part of “adventure wedding photography.” Ha! After we took some photos and enjoyed the magic of winter in Zion, we hiked back to the vehicles and headed back to Salt Lake City....then onward home to Chattanooga.

Groom stands with groomsmen, arms crossed in front of them, with the snowy hills of Zion National Park in the background.

Groomsmen hold the bride across their arms, the snowy hills and cliffs of Zion National Park in the background.

Bride and groom, wearing hiking boots, stop for a kiss next to rock cliffs.

Bride and bridesmaid pull up their dress hems during snowy Zion hike to reveal their hiking boots.

Bride and bridesmaid at the bottom of red cliffs hiking to Canyon Overlook

Bride and groom pose under red cliffs with icicles around them.

Bride and groom kiss at the bottom of red cliffs at Zion National Park.

Bride and groom pose at the bottom of red cliffs at Zion National Park.

Bride and groom hiking a snowy trail to Canyon Overlook as snow falls around them.

Bride and groom hold hands and look at each other at Canyon Overlook as snow falls around them.

Bride and groom hold each other in front of red cliffs as snow falls around them. Brides veil streams behind her.

Groom stands behind bride, his arms wrapped around her shoulders and her hands holding onto his hands. Snow falls around them.

Bride stands on a snowy trail with the red cliffs of Zion behind her. She holds her bouquet at her side.

Bride and groom kiss in a snowstorm, her veils swirls around their shoulders.

Bride and groom stand in the snow with the red cliffs of Zion National Park behind them.

Bride in lace gown looks down at her bouquet of white and purple flowers and greenery. Her dark hair is dusted with snow.

Bride stands in the snow with cliffs barely visible behind her. She tosses her bouquet over her shoulder into the cavern.

 

Considering a Winter Elopement in Zion National Park?

Liz and Andrew’s elopement was one really long, awesome day. While it was challenging because of the weather, it was very special and perfectly them. I’m really glad they decided to do what felt true and right for them, including skipping the traditional wedding for an elopement.

Zion has some amazing hikes and unparalleled iconic viewpoints, even during a blizzard. One thing to know, however, if you’re considering a winter elopement: you may not have the same views as other times of the year. That being said, as long as you’re prepared for the cold and snow, a Zion winter elopement is totally worth it.

Groom stands behind bride, his arms wrapped around her shoulders and her hands holding onto his hands. Snow falls around them.

 

How to include family and friends in your elopement

Liz and Andrew’s concerns about upsetting their family with an elopement are legitimate. Many couples face this same worry. But just because you elope doesn’t mean you can’t include your family and friends in celebrating! 

Besides inviting a select few family members or friends to attend your ceremony, consider a post-elopement reception for the whole crew at home. This is the direction Liz and Andrew took. A few months after their Zion winter wedding, they hosted a reception in Chattanooga, Tennessee with their family and friends. This way, everyone they loved back at home still got to spend time with them, celebrate their marriage, and enjoy a killer party!

 

 

You guys know I will travel wherever you want to take me for your elopement or wedding. I’m down to photograph pretty much any destination wedding or just about every adventure elopement you could imagine.

If you’re thinking about planning your own elopement, CONTACT ME, your friendly Chattanooga wedding photographer, and I will help you plan! 

If you loved this Zion winter elopement, you might also like Liz and Brock’s couples session in Joshua Tree National Park. Looking to stay a bit more “local” to Chattanooga with your destination wedding or elopement? Check out Bridget and Alex’s Intimate Autumn Wedding at Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee!

Published by Rachael Crowe in Featured, Travel, Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga elopement photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, Destination wedding photographer, National Park wedding, Tennessee wedding photographer

November 19, 2019 — Comments are off for this post.

Boho Midwestern Styled Elopement Shoot Out

This styled shoot was so. much. fun. I teamed up with the most amazing, talented wedding vendors, and the results were SO gorgeous! I’m a huge believer in #communityovercompetition and giving back, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive some amazing mentoring over the years. I’m glad to be able to do the same, and since we had so many amazing vendors on board for the shoot, I sold tickets for other photographers to join in. We ended up having 14 photographers and videographers join us on the day of the shoot. As much as I wasn’t planning on hosting a big event, I’m SO glad it happened that way! This boho midwestern elopement styled shoot out was amazing, and I can’t wait for the next one! 

We were hosted by The Gray Dove, which is now one of my favorite wedding venues! Everyone helped me put together a boho, midwestern inspired look for the multiple shoots we had organized, and it ended up looking so cool! It was such a collaborative effort, and the boho midwestern theme looked better than I thought possible! 

Shaina Ramsey did all of the makeup, and she did SUCH a good job keeping it boho glam. Juliet's Beauty Lounge styled all of the model's hair, and kept it simple but elegant.

White Ink Calligraphy created the most amazing invitation suite. We put together a flat lay with cork, geodes, and antique jewelry from Hudson Estate, and it looked SO cool.

I’m a huge believer in #communityovercompetition and giving back, and a styled shoot out is an awesome way to build community and learn from your peers.

The shoot had tropical plants, cacti, amazing macrame, lace, fringe, vintage decor accents… I’m really happy with how it came together! 

Prior to the shoot, I sat down with each of the vendors to discuss my vision. I gave each of them a mood board, and they RAN with it! They brought my vision to life, which was so cool. We ended up having 8 models and 14 photographers/videographers - one who even drove 14 hours from Kansas just to be there! 

Ramblewood Co. put together the most amazing bouquets and floral installations that were boho and badass all at the same time. The Copper Quail provided all of the vintage furniture and decor for our indoor and outdoor elopement set ups, and everything pulled together so well.

I don't know anyone other than Sierra's Cake Werks who can make a plain naked cake look so amazing. It fit in with the rest of the shoot perfectly!

I taught a posing class during the shoot, which was super fun. It’s also nice to participate in a styled shoot, because it leaves more room for creativity. Wedding days can be hectic and don’t leave a lot of time to be experimental, but having a less restricted timeline during a shoot lets me try all sorts of fun new things. I got to try some new techniques and play around a little. I always tell photographers to do styled shoots if they can! If you don’t have time to organize your own, I have a waitlist for my next one coming up soon! 


White Table provided the napkins for our table setting, and Chattanooga Tent brought their best plates and flatware for the tablescapes.

Can we just talk about this macrame backdrop for a hot minute? Mother Macramei created this specially for the shoot out, and it was EPIC. Together with the brick wall, rattan peacock chairs and green palms, it created such a cool vibe and I fell in love instantly!

I connected with Olia Zavozina for the model's dresses and Giorgio Men's Warehouse for the men's suits - and let me just tell you, all of our couples looked incredible. I could not have planned it better! We had a variety of styles for all of the photographers and videographers to photograph, and all of the dresses had such great flow and movement.

Mobile Moony joined us on set with their badass mobile photo booth, and everyone loved it!

 

I am seriously obsessed with how amazing the handmade jewelry from Sayuri Designs looked when paired with the vintage jewelry and bridal gowns.

And one last final shout out to the awesome hosts at The Gray Dove! I had such a great time at this venue, as did the rest of our crew, and it's so insanely versatile! The owners are amazing and I would definitely recommend booking it for your wedding!

 

The amazingly talented elopement vendor team: 

Venue - The Gray Dove 

Vintage Furniture and Decor - The Copper Quail    

Florals - Ramblewood Co.  

Dresses - Olia Zavozina 

Suits - Giorgio Mens Warehouse  

Makeup - Shaina Ramsey 

Hair - Juliet's Beauty Lounge

Vintage and Fine Jewelry - Hudson Estate

Handmade Jewelry - Sayuri Designs

Macrame Backdrop - Mother Macramei 

Cake - Sierra's Cake Werks

Calligraphy - White Ink Calligraphy

Napkins - White Table

Plates and Flatware - Chattanooga Tent

Photo Booth - Mobile Moony

 

If you're a photographer, videographer, or wedding vendor and you're interested in joining in on my next styled shoot out -

sign up for the waitlist or contact me!

 

 

Published by Rachael Crowe in For Photographers, Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga elopement photographer, Chattanooga farm wedding photographer, Chattanooga photographer styled shoot, Chattanooga wedding photographer, The Gray Dove wedding

June 9, 2019 — Comments are off for this post.

Backyard Wedding in Calhoun Georgia | Lizzie + Jay

I met Lizzie and Jay after I photographed one of their friend’s weddings. They contacted me to photograph their backyard wedding in Calhoun, Georgia, about 45 minutes south of Chattanooga. Lizzie’s parents’ home and backyard are gorgeous--like English-cottage-castle style gorgeous. You’ll see what I mean when you scroll through this gallery.

bride and groom kissing on a brick path outside a stone Georgia estate

 

Lizzie and Jay's Northern Georgia Backyard Wedding

Lizzie and Jay have been together for years and are such a sweet couple. Did you ever go to summer camp when you were young? That’s where Lizzie and Jay met. Jay was the rope swing monitor and Lizzie kept coming back to his line to flirt with him. How cute is that?! 

They welcomed their guests to Lizzie’s parents’ spacious backyard early in the day for a BRUNCH WEDDING. Wha?! The upscale style and decor for the event did not detract from the relaxed vibe of the couple or their family. 

Lizzie and Jay planned to wait until the ceremony for the first look. They got ready in separate rooms, and when Jay finally saw her walking down the aisle, his reaction was adorable. While first looks are becoming more popular, seeing the groom’s reaction to his bride during the ceremony is incredibly special. The entire ceremony was moving, and I almost started crying when Jay teared up during their ring exchange. It started raining during the ceremony, and I ran down the aisle to hand Lizzie an umbrella. She was so chill about the drizzle and said, “No thanks!” 

Stone and slate country estate in Calhoun, Georgia

small black and white dog wearing a plaid tie stands near French doors and wedding day sign

custom wedding day sign with large H and couple's last name printed above "est. 2019"

antique wedding day details including a framed photo of Bride's mother and father on their wedding day

white and green wedding day flowers tied with lace at the corner of backyard wedding tent

elegant backyard wedding invitations, rings, and lace on a silver tray

wedding rings on vintage leather book with garter lying nearby

wedding dress hanging on shiplap white wall. Bride's veil and bouquet sit on an antique chair.

lace appliqué wedding dress hangs on a wood hanger on a white, shiplap wall

Wedding dress hangs on a shiplap wall with veil and bouquet sitting on an antique chair. White shoes lie on wood plank floor.

small black and white dog waiting at glass French doors

groom in dark blue suit pants and light blue shirt adjusts the knot of his floral tie

groom putting on tie and suit jacket in front of large windows

groom laughing as he buttons his dark blue suit jacket over his flower printed tie

groomsmen getting ready in large room with exposed wood beams and stone fireplace

groomsmen goofing off and playing air guitar while getting dressed for ceremony

groomsmen putting on colorful socks under dark blue pants

bride holding flower girl in white and blue dress

bride putting on eye shadow while a friend holds up a round silver mirror for her

bride greeting guests

bride's mother tucking veil into her dauther's hair. Bride's mother wears a wide gray hat.

mother dabbing at bride's tears in front of a tall window

father wearing gray suit and lavender tie seeing his daughter in her wedding dress for the first time

bride hugging her father in front of a fireplace

bride hugging her father on wedding day

backyard wedding ceremony in a wide, stone courtyard. A white metal wedding arch framed by two large potted plants.

guests signing guestbook on a floral tablecloth

guests seated in wooden folding chairs for outdoor wedding ceremony

groom waiting at simple white wedding arch

bridesmaids and groomsmen walking down stone steps during backyard wedding ceremony

bride's father escorts her down wide stone steps around the side of a stone house

flower girls and ring bearers at wedding ceremony

groom watching bride walk down aisle

bride's father walking down large stone steps with mature oak trees behind them

groom waiting for his bride at wedding arch in the courtyard of a stone house

groom and groomsmen watch bride walk down aisle

bride's father escorts her down large stone steps as her long veil trails behind her

bride walking down aisle during Georgia backyard wedding

bride smiles at her father as he gives her hand to her groom

ring bearer standing on a stone paver path during wedding ceremony

bride and groom laughing as officiant speaks to them and wedding guests

bride and groom holding hands and smiling as officiant greets the wedding guests

outdoor Georgia backyard wedding ceremony

bride and groom holding hands under simple white metal wedding arch in front of a stone house

bride and groom adding dirt to an oak sapling during their backyard wedding

Bride and groom adding dirt to a planter with a young oak tree during their backyard wedding ceremony

young oak tree in planter on a small table in the courtyard of a stone house

wedding guests sit in wooden folding chairs behind a large, stone house for backyard wedding in Calhoun, Georgia

bride laughing as groom reads his vows to her from his phone

bride and groom laughing with each other during wedding ceremony

bride and groom laughing as he reads his wedding vows from his phone

bride sliding ring onto groom's finger while making a funny face. He laughs.

bride and groom holding hands as minister places his hand on both of theirs

bride and groom bow their heads in prayer during their backyard wedding ceremony

groom wiping tears away during ceremony as bride holds his hand

bridesmaids and groomsmen standing during ceremony

bride and groom kissing in the courtyard of a large stone house during backyard wedding ceremony

bride and groom smiling as they walk a stone path between wedding guests

bride and groom kiss as they leave ceremony

bride and groom hugging guests after wedding

groom reaching down to give ring bearers high fives

guests mingling on a driveway near a stone house after Georgia backyard wedding ceremony

 

Creative Solution for Rainy Wedding Day Photos

Yeah, so what should you do if it rains on your outdoor wedding? Well, there are plenty of tips out there, and especially in the Southeast, we’re bound to have rain just about any season. So my biggest tip, for the bride and groom AND the photographer, is to stay calm and get creative.

Lizzie’s parents’ gorgeous Georgia backyard has these rolling green hills, but after the ceremony it started raining really hard. We needed a new backdrop for their photos and a pretty immediate solution. We went into the house to keep them from getting soaked, and we decided to move their portraits indoors. As they dried off a bit, I wandered through the house to find a good spot for bride and groom pictures.

I walked into her parents’ bedroom and glanced into the ensuite bathroom, and it was amazing! Like the best light. I went back to Lizzie and Jay and asked if they trusted me… To which they replied, “Yeah of course.” I said, “Follow me. We are doing your portraits in the bathroom.” Haha! They followed me into the bathroom and sat on the tub while I took their photos. Lizzie and Jay, thank you for being so flexible and for trusting my vision! 

groomsmen posing in a large grass field for portraits

groomsmen posing outside for portraits

groomsmen posing outside for portraits

groomsmen posing outside for portraits

groom holds open blue suit jacket to show his narrow floral tie clipped to his light blue shirt

groomsmen doing goofy poses in large grass field for portraits

groomsmen doing goofy poses in large grass field for portraits

bridal party posing for photos in front of wooden garage doors

bridal party posing for photos in front of wooden garage doors

bridal party posing for photos in front of wooden garage doors

bridal party posing for photos in front of wooden garage doors

bride and groom walking with bridal party away from a stone estate house

bride with bridesmaids laughing together in front of wide wooden garage door

bride with bridesmaids laughing together in front of wide wooden garage door

bride with bridesmaids laughing together in front of wide wooden garage door

bride with bridesmaids making silly faces on a brick step in front of a stone porch

bride with bridesmaids making silly faces on a brick step in front of a stone porch

bride and groom posing with family for portraits

bride and groom posing with family for portraits

bride posing with family and making peace sign

bride and groom posing with family for portraits

bride and groom smiling at each other as they walk down a brick path between low shrubs

bride and groom sitting on a white couch in front of a grand piano smiling at each other

bride and groom smiling at each other in front of a tall fireplace in a Georgia estate

bride and groom sitting in front of window in dimly lit room

bride and groom kissing in front of window while sitting on the edge of a white claw-foot bathtub in a bright bathroom

bride and groom holding hands and sitting on the edge of a white claw-foot bathtub in a bright bathroom

bride standing under a high-peaked ceiling in front of tall window holding a bouquet of large white flowers and greenery

bride standing in front of tall window holding a bouquet of large white flowers and greenery

bride fixing her large pearl earrings

bride standing in front of tall window, smiling down at her bouquet of white flowers and greenery

bride and groom walking hand in hand down a brick pathway in front of a stone house

white lace-covered long tables set with tapered candles and glass carafes of orange juice under a white tent

table setting of fine china and silverware on a lace-covered table at a Georgia backyard wedding

cupcake stand with vanilla and chocolate cupcakes with white icing

custom wedding day favors for guests

desserts of fruit and toppings catered for backyard brunch wedding

bacon and eggs in warming dishes for backyard brunch wedding

food in warming dishes at backyard brunch wedding

buffet tables covered with dishes of waffles and toppings for backyard brunch wedding

white tent set up on green lawn for backyard wedding

simple round white cake sitting among greenery on a lace-covered table at a Southern backyard wedding

guests serving themselves buffet style brunch at backyard wedding in Calhoun, Georgia

woman in floral printed dress adding eggs and waffles to her plate at backyard brunch wedding reception

bride and groom dancing on a brick patio surrounded by low green hedge

bride and groom sit at a white lace-covered table and smile

bride and groom laughing while listening to a groomsman's wedding toast

guests sitting at long tables under wedding tent listening to wedding toasts

bridesmaid raising a crystal glass while reading from a piece of paper and giving wedding toast at reception

guests listening to wedding toasts

bride and groom listening to wedding toasts

bride and groom cutting wedding cake. A glass carafe of orange juice sits on the table next to them.

bride and groom feeding each other wedding cake on forks

bride and groom kiss in front of cake and candles

bride and groom dancing with parents under white tent at their outdoor brunch wedding reception

bride and groom first dance on grass under large, white tent during their backyard wedding reception

bride and groom first dance on grass under large, white tent during their backyard wedding reception

guests dancing at backyard wedding

guests dancing on grass under large, white tent

Bride dancing with young girl and other guests on grass under large, white tent

Bride hugging wedding guest under backyard wedding tent

just married sign in rear window of white Honda

wedding day getaway car decorated with balloons and ribbon

bride and groom running down brick path as guests toss birdseed. Bride wears a white sundress and baseball cap.

bride and groom running down brick path as guests toss birdseed. Bride wears a white sundress and baseball cap.

bride and groom running down brick path as guests toss birdseed. Bride wears a white sundress and baseball cap.

bride and groom running down brick path as guests toss birdseed. Bride wears a white sundress and baseball cap.

bride and groom running down brick path as guests toss birdseed. Bride wears a white sundress and baseball cap.

bride and groom kissing on brick pathway in front of stone house

After brunch under the tent, speeches, and dancing, Lizzie and Jay exited the party. The couple opted for a birdseed exit, which is a great daytime wedding alternative to sparklers.

Everything about this wedding was absolutely charming. From the backyard wedding invitations, to the incredible stonework of the house, to the brunch reception on the lawn (they even had little tea cups and glassware that reminded me of a posh British estate!). The entire event was pretty perfect for such a laid back, fun couple.

 

This was such an amazing day, and I have a new appreciation for non-traditional weddings! If you loved this backyard wedding in Georgia, you might also love Courtney and Tanner’s intimate elopement on their family property or Taylor and Harrison's Chattanooga Farm wedding. And if you’re planning a wedding in your own backyard, you might appreciate The Knot’s tips on the subject.

 

Whether you're planning a backyard wedding, a traditional church wedding, or a destination elopement, contact me, your Chattanooga wedding photographer, and I can help you plan!

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga backyard wedding photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, Georgia wedding photographer
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