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

May 4, 2019 — Comments are off for this post.

Southern Farm Wedding | Fynn + Mary Howard

Fynn and Mary Howard had a very unique, beautiful farm wedding. It had classic and rustic elements and the whole day had a very southern feel. But they also included very personal touches, and included some non-traditional ways of doing things. Everything was so perfectly tied together. They pulled off this southern farm wedding in the best way possible! 

Charming Southern family farm in Georgia

Mary Howard’s parents have a gorgeous farm in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It’s SO pretty - rolling hills, horses and cows in the surrounding fields, wildflowers everywhere… It’s so scenic and lovely, and everything was pulled together so beautifully on the wedding day.

rustic southern wedding day details

rustic southern wedding invitations

southern charm wedding day flowers

southern farm wedding day details

Southern farm wedding

Mary Howard bought her dress in Atlanta, from a designer named Tatyana Merenyuk. She didn’t realize it when she chose her dress, but Tatyana is actually NYC-based. Mary Howard used to live in New York, and when she found out that’s where her dress was from, she was so excited! It’s a nice sentimental detail that reminded her of the time she spent living in NYC, which is very cool.

wedding dress by Tatyana Merenyuk

wedding dress by Tatyana Merenyuk

She got ready in her childhood bedroom. There was a skylight in the roof, which made for the most amazing lighting.

 

I always recommend having natural light for your getting ready photos! 

 

If you can plan to have a window or skylight in your getting ready location, it will help to ensure your photos are stunning. 

wedding dress by Tatyana Merenyuk

wedding dress by Tatyana Merenyuk

bridal gown by Tatyana Merenyuk

charming family farm wedding Chattanooga

charming family farm wedding Chattanooga

charming family farm wedding Chattanooga

charming family farm wedding Chattanooga

charming family farm wedding Chattanooga

This southern farm wedding had so many charming elements -  

a moving first look, a friend singing during the ceremony, and heartfelt handwritten vows. 

charming family farm wedding

charming family farm wedding

charming family farm wedding

charming family farm wedding

charming family farm wedding

charming family farm wedding

charming family farm wedding

charming family farm wedding

charming family farm wedding

charming family farm wedding

charming family farm wedding

Bridal party portraits at southern farm wedding

Bridal party portraits at southern farm wedding

Bridal party portraits at southern farm wedding

ceremony details at southern family farm wedding

ceremony details at southern family farm wedding

ceremony details at southern family farm wedding

 

ceremony details at southern family farm wedding

The reception was held at the family barn across the street from the house. It was a little ways of a walk - so they decided to do a PARADE. Mary Howard came up with the idea herself and it was SO cool! She wanted a way to incorporate some of her musician friends into her wedding day. She’s very involved in the Chattanooga music scene, and wanted a way to pay tribute to that. 

Balloon parade to wedding reception

She created a parade with all of their guests. Everybody lined up with noise makers and balloons, and marched to the reception while the walking band played “While the Saints Go Marching In”. It was the cutest thing ever! I wish every wedding would do this! It was the neatest idea. 

Balloon parade to wedding reception

Balloon parade to wedding reception

Balloon parade to wedding reception

Balloon parade to wedding reception

Because Fynn and Mary Howard had scheduled a first look, we had already taken bride and groom portraits and family photos. It left time for the parade march, which was perfect. Super freaking cute! 

 

If you’re on the fence about doing a first look - I say go for it! A first look leaves more room in your wedding day timeline. 

 

By doing portraits and family photos earlier in the day, it frees up space later in the day. This allows you to add unconventional things or meaningful experiences into your timeline that you typically wouldn’t have time for. 

southern barn wedding reception

bride and groom sunset field portraits

When I snuck Fynn and Mary Howard outside for sunset portraits, there wasn’t much of a sunset! It actually started raining halfway through, but they rolled with it. 😉 We had a blast and got gorgeous pictures with the rolling hills in the distance! 

Always, always make sure you have a few minutes to sneak away for bride and groom sunset portraits!

bride and groom sunset field portraits

bride and groom sunset field portraits

bride and groom sunset field portraits

bride and groom sunset field portraits

bride and groom sunset field portraits

bride and groom sunset field portraits

charming family farm wedding Chattanooga

red barn wedding reception

southern farm wedding details

At the reception, they had really cute Southern, rustic details. Hay bales with tablecloths draped overtop with forks holding the linens on, a tractor outside ready for the late-night getaway… It was all really cute! 

red barn wedding reception

red barn wedding reception

southern farm wedding details

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Let’s talk about the first dance. 

It takes a lot for me to be blown away at weddings, nowadays. But I was BLOWN AWAY by Fynn’s dancing! He is SUCH a good dancer! He’s taken lessons moves like a professional. He was swinging Mary Howard all over the place - it was straight out of a swing dancing movie! I’ve never seen a guy dance like that, and I thought it was the coolest thing ever. He even danced like that with his mom! Throughout the entire reception, Fynn was going person-to-person with everyone on the dance floor, twisting, twirling, and spinning them. It was the most fun thing to watch and totally made my night! 

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Southern barn wedding reception dances

chattanooga wedding reception

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Southern barn wedding reception dances

The last part of the evening was supposed to be a sparkler exit. It was raining pretty heavily, though, so we had to come up with a plan B. Myself, and Mia + May, the AWESOME wedding coordinators, came up with an idea to try glow sticks instead. We decided to do their exit inside the barn, and handed out glow sticks and noisemakers to everyone. 

 

What to do when it's raining during your sparkler exit?! Get creative!

 

I had everyone line up in a tunnel, and Fynn and Mary Howard danced through the tunnel while I shot from the other side. It turned out SO cool! They headed outside to where their getaway tractor was waiting, and then hopped on the back! With balloons in hand, they (slowly!) tugged away on the tractor. As they made their way back to the farm house across the street, family and guests waved them off while Fynn and Mary Howard beamed at each other. 

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Southern barn wedding reception dances

Wedding reception glow stick send off exit

Southern barn wedding reception

Southern barn wedding reception

The amazing wedding day vendor team:

Venue: Family farm in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Videography: Jesse R. Hunter

Florals: The Clay Pot

Wedding Dress: Boutique: The Sentimentalist

Dress Designer: Tatyana Merenyuk 

Tent: Chattanooga Tent 

Wedding Coordinator: Mia + May Events 

Ceremony and Cocktail Music: Call Me Spinster

Cake: Sweet Angel Cakes

If you loved this southern farm wedding, you might also love this Chattanooga farm wedding! 

 

Are you planning your own wedding in Tennessee, Georgia, or anywhere in the US?! 

I’m Chattanooga based but available for travel, so contact me! 

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

April 6, 2019 — Comments are off for this post.

Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall Wedding | Brian + Tiffany

Brian and Tiffany had a beautiful, elegant wedding in Chattanooga, Tennessee. While their ceremony was pretty traditional, they incorporated several unique elements into their day. And they had one heck of a reception at the Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall!

bride and groom kissing in vintage wooden elevator

 

First-Centenary United Methodist Church wedding

Tiffany and Brian held their ceremony at First-Centenary United Methodist Church in downtown Chattanooga. One of the unique things I noticed right away was the bridal party. While Brian had 2 groomsmen, Tiffany had her whole girl gang who she referred to as her Golden Girls. This group of women were so fun and supportive.

Your bridal party doesn’t have to be even numbers, a certain size, or look a certain way. Heck, you don’t even have to call it a bridal party at all. When you throw aspects of tradition out the window, you can really make your wedding day your own.

 

Make your wedding day your own

Tiffany wore a dress she’d found from BHLDN. BHLDN is a line of gorgeous, vintage-inspired dresses from Anthropologie, and they have some of the most amazing dresses and accessories. Tiffany’s dress was already amazing with a deep V, lace appliqué, and a low back, but she made a few alterations including adding a long train. She transformed the gown into a stunning piece.

Brides: if you’re on the fence about having a long train on your wedding dress… DO IT! If you’re not really convinced, take another look at Tiffany flowing like a goddess in her portraits. If that doesn’t sell you on a train, I don’t know what will!

After their ceremony, we took Brian and Tiffany’s bride and groom portraits inside The Read House, a historic downtown hotel. The interior architecture of The Read House provided a classic setting for the pair. I love the carved wood details on the walls and the wide marble tiles on the floor.

 

Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall wedding reception

Following the ceremony and portraits downtown, everyone headed to Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall for the reception. This is one of the best venues in Chattanooga for a reception. It’s a versatile hall, and I’ve seen it transformed into so many different looks for the weddings I’ve shot there. Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall has both indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings and receptions, and it always ends up being an awesome party! It always looks amazing, and the main reception room is round with floor-to-ceiling windows to make for a beautiful, bright space.

For their reception Tiffany and Brian created a custom drink made with Chattanooga Whiskey, which was a super cool detail. They also gifted homemade muscadine jelly as a favor for their guests. So cute! The reception was a blast, with everyone dancing to the live band, singing, and enjoying the custom drinks.

The entire day was beautiful and so much fun, but I think my favorite part was the sparkler send off at the end of the night. Tiffany and Brian look elated--flushed and happy, twirling and laughing their way through the tunnel of sparklers to their classic “getaway car.” It made me SO happy when Tiffany got behind the wheel to drive away! Another little tradition flipped on its head. 

The pure joy on their faces as they peeled away into the night was magnetic, and I’m so glad I was the one there to capture it. Tiffany and Brian, congratulations on an amazing wedding day and a beautiful marriage!

 

 

A HUGE thanks to the amazing vendors I was lucky to work with for this Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall wedding!

Bridal Gown: BHLDN (with alterations and added train)
Hair: Epiphany Salon and Day Spa
Ceremony venue: First-Centenary United Methodist Church
Bride + Groom Portraits: The Read House
Reception venue: Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall
Catering: Food Works Chattanooga

 

Are you planning on hosting your own Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall wedding?! It's one of my favorite Chattanooga wedding venues, so contact me and I can help you out!

 

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall wedding reception, Tennessee wedding photographer

October 20, 2018 — Comments are off for this post.

Chattanooga Farm Wedding | Taylor + Harrison

Taylor and Harrison are a perfect example of a couple who knew what they wanted for their wedding and did it their way. They planned an intimate Chattanooga farm wedding on the bride’s family property just outside the city. Following the ceremony, the couple hosted a larger, casual reception at The Daily Ration in Chattanooga, Tennessee. 

bride and groom walk between white folding chairs, holding hands. A large tree strung with white paper lanterns is behind them.

 

Chattanooga Family Farm Wedding

Taylor and Harrison’s wedding day was gorgeous! They planned the entire event so thoughtfully. Between holding the vow exchange at the family farm, including their pets at the ceremony, hanging lanterns from the trees, and decorating the groom’s cake like Harrison’s truck, you don’t get many sweeter details!

Earlier in the year, I’d done the couple’s engagement photos on their family’s farm near Red Bank. So it was fun for me to return and see the property once more, this time decorated for their wedding. Taylor and Harrison exchanged vows under a huge tree next to a stream. For the ceremony, Taylor’s brother-in-law hung paper lanterns in the branches, creating a floating ceiling effect. What a magical touch for this sweet wedding.

Harrison collects antique cars, and Taylor arrived in the chariot of his powder-blue Ford truck. I love that they incorporated this aspect of their lives. Harrison’s tender gaze at Taylor when she walks down the aisle is beyond precious! 

woman sits in a dark leather chair reading a greeting card

woman sits in a dark leather chair reading a greeting card with a small brown and white dog on her lap

woman opens black jewelry box to see diamond earrings

white high heel shoes sit next to a necklace, earrings, engagement ring, bracelets and bouquet of white flowers

delicate pearls strung on a gold chain necklace sits in a red jewelry box

bride sits on a wooden deck, her hem pulled to her knees as she puts on white high heels. A brown and white dog stands nearby

Women help fasten bride's dress and straighten her hemline

small brown and white dog stands next to bride and looks up at her

brides hands with simple bracelet around her wrist and engagement diamond ring on her finger

Custom Made tag stitched inside rich, blue suit coat

Man puts on tie and tightens knot under his collar

Groom straightens his deep blue suit coat over his white shirt

groom sits on floral couch and opens a watch gift box

groom sits on floral sofa and fastens his watchband

boutonniere with small, delicate white flowers. white tag with "Harrison" handwritten on it is pinned to the boutonniere

a small number of white folding chairs sits on a lawn on either side of a white flower petal-lined aisle

white paper lanterns hang from large trees on the edge of a field and woods. white folding chairs are arranged nearby

people walk in the grass toward folding white chairs set up at the edge of lawn and woods

woman in sleeveless shirt carries a small white and brown dog

toddler boy sits with woman in white folding chairs

stuffed bear and wooden box sit on top of a blanket in a folding white chair

groom stands under low branches of a tree, surrounded by white paper lanterns. The ground is covered with white petals

antique baby blue Ford pickup truck in a grassy field surrounded by trees with a barn in the background

bride holds bouquet of white flowers and sits in passenger seat of an antique baby blue Ford F-100 pickup truck

groom in deep blue suit and white boutonniere smiles as he stands next to officiant

bride's father holds the train of her wedding dress as he helps her out of a baby blue Ford F-100 pickup truck into a grassy field

bride and her father walk down a path of white flower petals through a grassy field toward wedding guests

bride laughs as her father walk down a path of white flower petals through a grassy field toward wedding guests

groom and officiant smile at bride as her father stands with her at the Chattanooga farm wedding ceremony

groom looks at bride while she reads vows to him. officiant looks on.

bride smiles as groom reads his vows. They are surrounded by trees and white paper lanterns and stand on bed of white petals

bride smiles as groom reads his vows. They are surrounded by trees and white paper lanterns and stand on bed of white petals

groom looks at bride as she reads vows. They are surrounded by trees and paper lanterns and stand on bed of white petals

groom looks at bride as she reads vows. They are surrounded by trees and paper lanterns and stand on bed of white petals

wedding guests sit in white folding chairs and smile as bride and groom exchange vows

bride and groom stand before officiant. They are surrounded by tall green trees and white paper lanterns

Bride and groom hug beneath a large tree strung with white paper lanterns. Wedding guests watch from white folding chairs.

bride and groom walk between white folding chairs, holding hands. A large tree strung with white paper lanterns is behind them.

bride in strapless dress and groom in dark blue suit kiss as wedding guests look on

bride and groom walk between white folding chairs, holding hands. A large tree strung with white paper lanterns is behind them.

bride and groom walk on a bed of white flower petals toward antique baby blue Ford F-100 pickup truck

groom shuts the door of his antique baby blue Ford pickup truck while bride sits inside, smiling

 

Bride and Groom wedding portraits on the family farm near Chattanooga

The couple recited their handwritten vows in front of a small gathering, keeping the wedding ceremony very intimate. Afterward, we stayed on the farm for family photos and bride and groom portraits. 

As a photographer, it’s particularly thrilling when a couple prioritizes time for photos. Taylor and Harrison set aside a whole 60 minutes for their portraits! Because there was no rush, I felt at ease to create. And talk about swoon city. These two made this time together so, so easy. Although the ground was still soaked from the previous day’s thunderstorm, the bride and groom trekked through the field and forest for their photos.

bride and groom stand on a bed of white petals beneath tall green trees hung with white paper lanterns

bride and groom stand on a bed of white petals beneath tall green trees hung with white paper lanterns

bride and groom stand beneath tall green trees hung with white paper lanterns. she cuddles a small brown and white dog

bride and groom stand beneath tall green trees hung with white paper lanterns

bride stands on a bed of white petals beneath tall green trees hung with white paper lanterns. she holds large white bouquet

brides white floral bouquet with greens and small dinosaur toys

groom stands next to antique white Volvo, his hand holds onto his suit coat

groom stands next to antique white Volvo, his hand holds onto his suit coat

bride and groom hold hands and smile at each other as they walk through a grassy field lined with trees

groom in dark blue suit hugs bride in strapless dress from behind as they laugh

bride and groom hug and he kisses her cheek as her veil swirls around them

bride and groom hold hands as they sit together on a wooden porch swing

bride and groom hold hands and kiss as they sit together on a wooden porch swing

bride rests her head on groom's shoulder as they sit together on a wooden porch swing

bride and groom hold hands and laugh as they walk down a paved driveway

Bride and groom stand leaning against the hood of a light blue antique Ford pickup truck in a field

Bride and groom sit in a light blue antique Ford pickup truck kissing

Casual wedding reception at The Daily Ration

 

After a short break, we made our way to their reception at The Daily Ration where loved ones were ready to celebrate. The Daily Ration has been a Chattanooga favorite for a few years, and it’s a fantastic venue for a reception, especially with your hometown crowd!

So you have to check out Taylor and Harrison’s cakes. For starters, one of my favorite details is their CHEESEcake wedding cake. Yep, that’s right. A cake literally made of 3 huge wheels of cheese! Amazing. And the groom’s cake decorated like Harrison’s truck is unreal. I love the addition of the couple’s pups in icing.

After dining and dancing with their friends and family, Harrison and Taylor closed the party with a sparkler exit. They drove off in Harrison’s vintage Volvo that their friends had decked out with tin cans and signs. Super classic!

The Daily Ration patio and exterior in Chattanooga, TN.

Antique white Volvo parks near a low white picket fence in the dusk light.

groom walks around the back of a white antique Volvo in a parking lot

Bride and groom exit white antique Volvo

Bride and groom walk onto the patio at The Daily Ration for their wedding reception. Guests cheer and clap.

Hand-printed Reserved sign sits on a wooden table

Small tabletopMr. and Mrs. signs sit on either side of a stack of 3 wheels of cheese made to look like a wedding cake.

Three large cheese wheels decorated with sprigs of rosemary sit atop one another like a wedding cake.

Ceramic bride and groom mice sit on top of thick wheel of cheese

cake shaped like and decorated like a blue Ford pickup truck. Two frosting pups sit next to it.

guests gather at The Daily Ration. The garage doors are wide open, allowing people to flow from inside to outside.

man signs a wooden board to leave a personal message for the couple

bride hugs wedding guests outside The Daily Ration

Wedding guests in formal attire pose for a photo on the patio at The Daily Ration

people gather at the bar inside The Daily Ration. The exterior garage doors are wide open.

white buffet platters with chicken lettuce wraps and Korean fried chicken sliders and sauces

bride and groom dance under white patio lights at The Daily Ration during their wedding reception

bride and groom dance under white patio lights

man and woman holding a toddler girl dance at an outdoor wedding reception

man in red shirt and dark vest and woman in red lacy dress dance together

bride dances with a friend on the patio at The Daily Ration in Chattanooga, TN

bride hugs a friend as guests dance near them

toddler girl with large white bow walks toward bride

guests toast at wedding reception

bride and groom dance with guests at their wedding reception at The Daily Ration in Chattanooga

bride and groom dance with guests at their wedding reception at The Daily Ration in Chattanooga

birdseed hearts in a basket with bride and groom gift tags attached

Wedding guests tie metal cans to the bumper of a white vintage automobile

large Just married sign strung across the rear window of an antique white car. Metal cans are tied to the bumper.

chalk "T+H" drawn on the window of a white antique car

bride and groom hold hands and walk through sparkler tunnel as they leave their wedding reception at The Daily Ration

bride and groom kiss beneath sparklers as guests cheer for them.

bride and groom kiss beneath sparklers as guests cheer for them.

Taylor and Harrison: thank you so much for inviting me to be a part of your lovely day. Congratulations again to you and your pups Ruby and Cricket!

 

 

I love getting to be a hometown Chattanooga wedding photographer to so many amazing people! I’d be honored to be part of your big day. Contact me to start the conversation! 

 

I hope Taylor and Harrison’s Chattanooga farm wedding inspired you. Every wedding and reception is so individual, and I love how each one of my couples includes personal touches to their day. Your wedding day should be a good fit for YOU. I hope you’ll check out my other blog galleries for inspiration! 

If you’re planning an intimate, at-home, backyard wedding, Courtney and Tanner’s intimate elopement on their family’s property is about as sincere as they come. If a formal church affair is more your style, Brian and Tiffany’s ceremony at First-Centenary United Methodist Church, followed by their wedding reception at Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall, is absolutely classic. And if you’re hoping to take your event out into our amazing natural world, definitely consider a National Park destination wedding or a Tennessee State Parks wedding. Check out Margaret and Garrison’s Bohemian festival wedding--between their portraits at Foster Falls and ceremony and reception at Hemlock Falls, you can see why I’m constantly pumped for these sorts of opportunities!

So yeah, whatever your wedding flavor, contact me so we can grab a coffee or cocktail and see if we’re a good fit!

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga backyard wedding photographer, Chattanooga farm wedding photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, The Daily Ration wedding reception

October 13, 2018 — Comments are off for this post.

Bohemian Festival Wedding | Margaret + Garrison

Margaret and Garrison’s bohemian festival wedding is one of the most interesting weddings I’ve had the honor to photograph. I’m so excited to show it to you!

This couple are eclectic masterminds: Margaret is the creator and entrepreneur behind Bohemian Seed, modernizing and upcycling vintage clothing, and Garrison is a concert promoter. While planning their wedding, they knew they wanted their wedding to be a combination of their favorite things – nature, vintage decor, vegetarian food, good music, and community. 

This wedding has been featured on:
Festival Brides  // Sisters in Law  // Boho Weddings  // Hometown Bride Guide

 

From music festival to bohemian wedding festival

Margaret shared with me how they met. “We actually lived in the same city for four years and had so many mutual friends--it’s a wonder we didn’t meet sooner. We met briefly at a show that Garrison was promoting, but we didn’t get to know each other until months later when we were both at a music festival in Nashville. My favorite band at the time, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, was performing on stage. At one point, the lead singer jumped into the crowd and was passing the mic to members of the audience to join in on singing along. I ran as close to the front as I could, and somehow he handed me the microphone. The cameras panned to me, and Garrison recognized me from the big screen. We met up after the show and have been inseparable ever since.”

man dips and kisses woman in front of heptagon arch at their Bohemian Festival wedding at Hemlock Falls near Chattanooga

 

Bride and groom waterfall portraits at Foster Falls near Chattanooga, Tennessee

We started off Margaret and Garrison’s wedding day by hiking to Foster Falls for their bride and groom portrait session. They got ready along the path, helping each other into their unique, bohemian bazaar-themed wedding garb. 

Margaret wore an antique Afghan wedding dress that she modernized into the bohemian wedding dress of her dreams. Garrison wore his favorite pair of pants, a vintage Russian wedding shirt, and a scarf that Margaret made from the remnants of her dress alterations. They were both barefoot as well, though Margaret adorned gold gypsy anklets with jingle bells for pizzaz! Truly one-of-a-kind duds for their one-of-a-kind wedding.

These forest and waterfall photos are swoon-worthy. I loved capturing such tenderness between Margaret and Garrison.

man carries white shirt as he hikes down rock steps to Foster Falls behind woman

colorful Bohemian gypsy dress hangs on a tree near Foster Falls Chattanooga, Tennessee

woman in colorful Bohemian dress straightens scarf around man's neck

man and woman change into wedding attire in the woods near Foster Falls

man and woman cross a wooden suspension bridge toward Foster Falls in Chattanooga, TN for bride and groom portraits

man and woman stand on wooden suspension bridge at Foster Falls in Chattanooga for their bohemian festival wedding portraits

man and woman dressed in Bohemian style climb barefoot over rocks at Chattanooga's Foster Falls for wedding portraits

man and woman dressed in Bohemian style dress kiss on rocks at Chattanooga's Foster Falls for wedding portraits

man and woman snuggle on large rocks for their Bohemian wedding photos at Foster Falls in Chattanooga, Tennessee

man and woman snuggle on large rocks for their Bohemian wedding photos at Foster Falls in Chattanooga, Tennessee

man and woman dressed in colorful Bohemian style dress snuggle on large rock

man and woman in colorful Bohemian style dress kiss while sitting on a tree branch at Foster Falls near Chattanooga

man and woman in colorful Bohemian style dress snuggle while sitting on a tree branch at Foster Falls near Chattanooga

man and woman dressed in Bohemian style climb barefoot over rocks at Chattanooga's Foster Falls for wedding portraits

man and woman dressed in Bohemian style dress dance on rocks at Chattanooga's Foster Falls for wedding portraits

man and woman dressed in Bohemian style dress stand on rocks next to Chattanooga's Foster Falls for wedding portraits

man and woman dressed in Bohemian style climb barefoot over rocks at Chattanooga's Foster Falls for wedding portraits

man and woman in colorful Bohemian style dress hold hands in the woods next to a creek

man and woman in colorful Bohemian style dress dance in the woods next to a creek

man and woman in colorful Bohemian dress cross a wooden bridge

 

Bohemian festival wedding at Hemlock Falls

After their portraits at Foster Falls, we headed back to Hemlock Falls for their boho-bazaar wedding ceremony. 

To keep everything entirely DIY, Margaret and Garrison pulled together borrowed pieces from friends and family, pieces they had collected specifically for the event, and even incorporated pieces from their own home into the ceremony and reception. One of their close friends officiated with a script written especially for them. They didn’t even purchase florals for decor! Margaret used Japanese lanterns growing behind her family friend’s house, bowls of fruit, and flowers foraged along the path to Foster Falls.

I personally love how they used these rugs to line the aisle and create a dance floor! Such a cool idea.

When it comes to planning such a big event, Margaret offers this advice to other couples: “Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Don’t overthink it. Be present, and enjoy each moment because what they say is true: months and months of planning goes by in just a few hours. It all happens SO fast. Take a deep breath and just enjoy each other.”

church pews and benches lead to simple heptagon wedding arch overlooking Hemlock Falls near Chattanooga, Tennessee

multi-colored Oriental rugs line aisle between benches leading to a heptagon arch at Hemlock Falls Bohemian festival wedding

brightly colored table cloth on small table with palm reading book and crystal ball

low tables covered with bright cloths and surrounded by colorful pillows sit under white tent at Bohemian festival wedding

set up for Bohemian festival wedding with multiple Oriental rugs near gypsy wagon and wicker furniture sets

red and yellow painted gypsy wagon at Hemlock Falls near Chattanooga Tennessee

man and woman in colorful Bohemian dress hold a young blond child between them and kiss his cheeks

woman in bright gypsy dress walks down the aisle toward man in white boho shirt and scarf

man and woman hold hands under heptagon arch at their Bohemian Festival wedding at Hemlock Falls as officiant speaks

dog lies on Oriental rug in the aisle of Hemlock Falls wedding ceremony while man and woman exchange vows

Oriental rugs line the aisle of bohemian Hemlock Falls wedding ceremony while man and woman exchange vows under heptagon arch

man places ring on woman's hand while they smile at each other

man and woman dressed in Bohemian style kiss on Oriental rug-lined aisle at Hemlock Falls wedding ceremony near Chattanooga

man and woman hug behind orange-gold curtain

 

Boho Bazaar-themed wedding reception

With our bellies full of vegetarian catering provided by Kabob-ster and kombucha from Muse + Metta at the reception, we danced the night away under twinkle lits and a magical Burning Man tent on the vintage carpet dance floor. It was a bohemian festival wedding to the very end of the night!

grape leaf wrapped snacks and vegetables on a platter surrounded by various dipping sauces

pita bread in platters next to dishes of hummus and other sauces

brass goblets stand on brightly colored table cloth

man and woman sit on pillows at a low dining table under a white tent at their Bohemian festival wedding at Hemlock Falls

man in white shirt and colorful scarf holds hand with woman in bright dress at overlook at Hemlock Falls near Chattanooga

man carries and kisses woman in colorful dress after their Bohemian festival wedding in Chattanooga, Tennessee

man in white shirt and colorful scarf hugs woman in bright dress at overlook at Hemlock Falls near Chattanooga

man hugs woman in colorful dress from behind and they smile together

man in white shirt and colorful scarf kisses woman in bright dress at overlook at Hemlock Falls near Chattanooga

man in white shirt and bright scarf stands barefoot at overlook at Hemlock Falls

woman in colorful Bohemian wedding dress holds bright bouquet at overlook as Hemlock Falls wedding

woman lifts front hem of her brightly colored Bohemian wedding dress to show her bare feet and brass anklets

man and woman dance on outdoor dance floor made of Oriental rugs and their Bohemian festival wedding reception in Chattanooga

man and woman dance on outdoor dance floor made of Oriental rugs and their Bohemian festival wedding reception in Chattanooga

man dips woman as they dance on Oriental run outdoor dance floor at their Hemlock Falls Bohemian festival wedding reception

large white tent lit with white string lights over low tables and pillow seating

outdoor dance floor made of multiple Oriental rugs and white sting lights at Hemlock Falls wedding reception

Bohemian festival wedding reception tent lit with white string lights

sunset and moonrise over Hemlock Falls wedding reception

man in gray sport coat holds a small girl in pink jacket and pink bow in her hair and they dance under string lights

woman in green dress, red hat, and colorful jacket dances under string lights

colorful red table cloth covered with platters of fruits and tall candlesticks and bright bouquet

diamond wedding ring circled around a long white feather

woman sits in tall wicker peacock chair and pulls a purple garter up over her knee

woman sits in tall wicker peacock chair while man removes her purple garter with his teeth

woman sits in tall wicker peacock chair while man removes her purple garter with his teeth

man and woman wearing bright gypsy dress walk under sparkler tunnel exit after their Hemlock Falls Bohemian festival wedding

man and woman kiss under sparkler tunnel after their Bohemian festival wedding at Chattanooga's Hemlock Falls

woman wearing bright Bohemian gypsy dress carries baby through sparkler tunnel exit after Chattanooga Hemlock Falls wedding

man and woman wearing bright Bohemian gypsy dress walk through sparkler tunnel exit after their Hemlock Falls wedding

 

Later, when asked about their favorite moment of the day, Margaret said, “I can’t choose just one special moment! The whole day felt like a dream turned reality. Everything from walking down the aisle, hearing Taylor’s script that he wrote so specifically for us, exchanging vows, the food, the first dance, watching the sunset. It was all so purely and truly magical.” It sounds like their bohemian festival wedding dreams came true. 

Venues/vendors for this boho-bazaar themed wedding:
Bride and groom portraits: Foster Falls at South Cumberland State Park
Ceremony and reception: Hemlock Falls
Wedding dress: Bohemian Seed
Catering: Kabob-ster
Kombucha: Muse + Metta

 

 

Being a wedding photographer is such a rush, and I love getting to capture so many moments of love and connection with the couples I work with. I'm based in Chattanooga, TN, but I travel just about everywhere I can. Whether you're booking a couple's session, an intimate elopement, or a wedding, contact me so we can start planning!

Hey, y'all! I'm Rachael Crowe of OkCrowe Photography. I'm so glad you've found your way to the bottom of my blog! If you loved Margaret and Garrison's bohemian festival-inspired wedding, you might really like the boho styled shoot I did with some truly gifted vendors. If a more traditional wedding is your speed, I've got loads of experience photographing these, too! Some of my current favorites are Caitlin and Joe's fall wedding at The Homestead at Cloudland Station and Martha and Geoff's winter wedding at The Turnbull Building in downtown Chattanooga.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Featured, Weddings
Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, Destination wedding photographer, Foster Falls wedding, Tennessee State Park wedding, Tennessee wedding photographer
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