Chattanooga wedding photographer Archives - Page 4 of 4

September 22, 2018 — Comments are off for this post.

DeBarge Vineyard Wedding in Dalton, Georgia | Leticia + Israel

Leticia and Israel's ceremony at St. Joseph's Catholic Church and DeBarge Vineyard wedding reception in Dalton were so beautiful. Surrounded by their family and friends, this couple’s marriage celebration was total fireworks from start to finish.

Bride and groom stand facing each other in front of grape vines and rolling hills. Her veil streams behind her.

I was ecstatic when Leticia reached out to me about photographing her and Israel’s wedding! While I had been looking for an opportunity to shoot at DeBarge Winery and Vineyard in North Georgia, I knew right away that these lovebirds would be a great fit for OkCrowe Photography. In her initial email, Leticia wrote about how she and Israel were high school sweethearts who loved Bruno Mars, dairy free ice cream, and spending quality time together. Although they had already been together for nine years before getting engaged, it wasn’t the first time Israel had given her a ring! He asked her to be his girlfriend with a ring pop when they were 15 years old. And, as they say in all the best rom coms: the rest is history.

BEAUTIFUL CATHOLIC WEDDING CEREMONY AT ST. JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC CHURCH

Leticia and Israel married with a full mass Catholic ceremony at their church, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, in Dalton, Georgia. This is the third Catholic ceremony I have photographed. I love the tradition and symbolism and how the sacrament of marriage is so cherished.

Israel and Leticia chose not to do a first look, waiting instead until the ceremony to see each other. Israel’s face as Leticia walked down the aisle is the sweetest!

Brides strappy, blue heels rest on her veil next to a glass box containing her wedding ring

diamond engagement ring rests on a green square inside a glass box

wedding invitation and watercolor map of ceremony and reception sites sit on brides tulle veil

framed photos of bride and groom, bride and mother, and bride and sister on a shelf

open locket with photo of young man and woman is tied to flower bouquet

tan makeup bags painted with flowers and bridesmaid's names

woman applies makeup to another womans eyes

bride kneels on a bed in a white robe while bridesmaids kneels around her in gray robes

older woman straps bride's blue heels around her ankles

bride's mother kneels beside her as she sits on a loveseat

mother and bridesmaids smile as they see bride

mother kisses bride while bridesmaids watch

bridesmaids in cornflower blue halter dresses gather while one woman takes a selfie

bridesmaids smile when they see bride in her dress

matron of honor places veil in brides hair

mother and matron of honor spread out brides sheer, lace-trimmed veil

bride stands in open, bright doorway with her long dress train and veil spread behind her

groom in white shirt, white bowtie, and brown suspenders puts on cornflower blue suit jacket

groom straightens his blue suit coat over his white shirt

groom straightens shirt cuffs under his cornflower blue suit coat

brick facade of St Josephs Catholic Church in Dalton Georgia

welcome signs and candle in entry of St Josephs Catholic Church in Dalton Georgia

small sign of memorial on red carpet

blessing of Pope Francis and marriage license for bride and groom

dark pews, red carpet, and bright interior of St Josephs Catholic Church in Dalton Georgia

kneeling pillows at altar painted with Mr. and Mrs. and wedding date

priest and groomsmen walk toward the altar during the processional

groom escorts his mother in the aisle of the church

bridesmaids walk on white runner toward the altar

flower girls drop pedals along white runner while wedding guests smile

groom and best man watch bride as her mother escorts her to the altar

bride escorted by her mother along a white aisle runner as wedding guests stand

bridesmaids hold simple bouquets of white flowers and greenery and smile at the front of the church

groom and groomsmen stand at the altar with their hands crossed in front of themselves

bride and her mother stand at the altar. stained glass window and crucifix above the altar

maid of honor presents a reading while bride and groom sit and smile at each other

priest presents a reading as wedding guests stand. bride and groom sit at altar under the crucifix

priest presents a reading at the pulpit on the wide altar at St Josephs Catholic Church in Dalton Georgia

dark pews, red carpet, and bright interior of St Josephs Catholic Church in Dalton Georgia

Bride and groom stand before priest at the altar of St Josephs Catholic Church in Dalton Georgia

Bride and groom smile at each other and hold hands before priest

bride smiles at groom as she places wedding band on his finger

Large wedding lasso rosary over bride and groom shoulders as they listen to priest

bride and groom kneel on pillows at altar with wedding lasso rosary around their shoulders while priest prepares communion

priest raises communion into the air and blesses it

bridesmaids bow their heads in prayer

priest places communion bread on grooms tongue

priest places communion bread on brides tongue

bride and groom kneel with wedding lasso rosary around their shoulders while priest raises his hands in the air

bride and groom stand in prayer with wedding lasso rosary around their shoulders while priest raises his hands in the air

family members remove wedding lasso rosary from bride and groom shoulders

wedding party gathers around bride and groom

bride and groom hold hands and face each other under the crucifix and stained glass window at St Josephs Catholic Church in Dalton Georgia

bride and groom hold hands and kiss while priest smiles at them

bride and groom hug while priest smiles at them

older woman holds a small toddler girl behind a large glass window at St Josephs Catholic Church wedding

bride and groom hold hands and smile as they walk from the altar during recessional

bride and groom kiss in the middle of the aisle at St Josephs Catholic Church in Dalton Georgia

wedding party poses together on altar steps beneath the crucifix

bride carries the train of her dress over one arm and bouquet in the other hand as groom helps her down the stairs

DEBARGE VINEYARD WEDDING RECEPTION IN DALTON, GEORGIA

After the ceremony, we drove to DeBarge Vineyard for the classiest reception. Greenery and gold accents dazzled the already gorgeous venue space. We took some time away for bridal party portraits in some nearby shade.

Tip: when you have a midday wedding, the bright sunlight can be quite harsh. So I’m always going to hunt down some shade from trees or an arbor or shadows from a nearby building to offset the brightness. You’ll notice we maintained the light without the harshness in these bridal portraits!

Once we finished the bridal party photos, we headed back to the reception for toasts and first dances.

bride and groom stand in a dark room in front of a bright open door

bride and groom pose in the shade for their portraits

bride and groom pose in the shade for their portraits; his arms are crossed, her dress train pools around her feet

groom crosses his arms in his cornflower blue suit jacket. he wears a small boutonniere with small white rose and greens

bride holds her bouquet which has a locket attached to the stems

bride and groom pose in the shade for their portraits

bride smiles and looks at her bouquet as her veil streams over her head

bride and groom face each other smiling. together they hold her large bouquet of white flowers and greenery

bride and bridesmaids stand in a line in the shade of large trees. they hold their bouquets of white flowers and greenery

bridesmaids bouquets of white flowers and greenery contrast with their cornflower blue dresses

bride and bridesmaids laugh together in the shade of large trees. they hold their bouquets of white flowers and greenery

groomsmen and groom stand in a line in the shade of large trees with their hands in their pockets

groomsmen and groom stand in a line in the shade of large trees

groomsmen and groom stand in a line in the shade of large trees. they joke with each other and laugh.

groomsmen and groom stand in the shade of large trees.

groom and groomsmen in cornflower blue suits and bowties laugh and point at each other

groom and groomsmen hold suit jackets over their shoulders

long table set with water goblets and gold chargers under a white tent

table set with gold chargers, silverware, blue cloth napkins, and white flowers and greenery

gold charger with two forks and a knife

white napkin printed with the bride and grooms names in gold

woman paints watercolor scenery at an easle

small, branded and corked bottles with bride and grooms names and initials

basket filled with small glass bottles

black table covered in signs, hats, and props

cup and koozie printed with bride and groom names and wedding date

BAR sign lit with small white lightbulbs on a table near a green plant

ring of greenery and white flowers hangs from exposed rough-cut rafters at DeBarge Vineyards in Dalton Georgia

bridesmaid and groomsman in cornflower blue dress and suit wave to guests

bridesmaid and groomsman wear dark sunglasses, he has a cigar in his teeth

bridesmaid and groomsman in cornflower blue suit and dress walk between tables and chairs

bride and groom hold hands and he twirls her between tables and chairs under large white party tent

groom dips bride and kisses her while guests watch

three tier white naked cake decorated with figs and greens sits on a gold stand surrounded by large green leaves

fig cut in half sits on one layer of white frosted naked cake

groom bends over and kisses his seated bride

bride and groom sit at a private table smiling

matron of honor and best man give toasts to the bride and groom

matron of honor gives toast to the bride and groom on the porch of DeBarge Vineyard in Dalton Georgia

matron of honor and best man give toasts to the bride and groom

bride kisses matron of honor on the cheek

best man gives toast to the bride and groom on the porch of DeBarge Vineyard in Dalton Georgia

Bride and groom dance with their arms around each other with rolling hills of North Georgia in the background

Bride and groom dance with their arms around each other while wedding guests watch

groom and friends peek out from upstairs window at DeBarge Vineyard

Bride and her mother hug and share a dance while wedding guests watch

Groom and his mother hug and share a dance while wedding guests watch

groom dances with bridesmaid during Dollar Dance and has dollars pinned all over his suit jacket

Bride and groom dance with friends during the Dollar Dance. They each have dollars pinned to their clothes

Bride and groom smile. They each have dollar bills pinned to their clothes from the Dollar Dance

SUNSET BRIDE AND GROOM PHOTOS AT VINEYARD WEDDING RECEPTION

After a rather comical dollar dance, we ventured into the vineyard for sunset portraits. Holy cow. The rows of grapes are an incredible backdrop, and I feel so lucky with how gorgeous this couple is. All the vineyard weddings please!

As the moon started to rise, we made it back to the reception area to kick off a real party! Once the dance floor opened, and between the open bar and late night snacks… let’s just say, it was LIT. Pay attention to the photos of Israel being thrown in the air on the dance floor! I still can’t get over this one. Letecia and Israel are so loved by their community. It is such a beautiful thing.

bride and groom gaze at each other and smile from between rows of grape vines at their DeBarge Vineyard wedding reception

bride and groom cuddle and smile next to a vine of grapes at their DeBarge Vineyard wedding reception

bride and groom hold hands and smile at each other next to vines of grapes at DeBarge Vineyard

bride and groom hold hands and kiss next to vines of grapes at DeBarge Vineyard in Dalton Georgia

bride and groom cuddle and smile next to a vine of grapes at their DeBarge Vineyard wedding reception

Groom kisses bride as she holds onto grape vine fencing at DeBarge Vineyard

bride and groom kiss as veil swirls around them

bride and groom covered in her veil between rows of grape vines at DeBarge Vineyard in Dalton Georgia

groom hugs bride next to a row of grape vines

bride and groom hold hands between rows of grape vines at their vineyard wedding reception

bride and groom hold hands and snuggle close to each other between rows of grape vines at their vineyard wedding reception

bride places her hand on grooms chest and they smile at each other with the full moon rising behind them

bride and groom stand in green lawn smiling at each other with rows of grape vines behind them

sugar cookies decorated with bride and groom initials on a platter next to vines of grapes

El Amor es Dulce sign next to cookies and small waffles

Hawaiian ice trailer serving special treats at vineyard wedding reception in Dalton Georgia

bridesmaids dancing during vineyard wedding reception

groomsmen and friends dancing together during wedding reception at Debarge Vineyard

grooms friends carry him as they dance

grooms friends throw him into the air as they dance

groom dances with bridesmaid and groomsmen

bridesmaids and bride dance at the wedding reception at DeBarge Vineyard

bride and groom dance together with friends around them. She holds her dress train over one arm.

groom dances with friends

wedding guests take drinks during wedding reception

wedding guests dancing

groomsmen and friends laughing together and posing for selfies

FIREWORKS DISPLAY AND SPARKLER EXIT AT DALTON GEORGIA VINEYARD WEDDING RECEPTION

Letecia and Israel ended the night with a fireworks display and sparkler exit. What a pleasure it was to play a part in such a special day. Congrats to the happy couple!

bride and groom kiss as fireworks explode in the dark sky overhead

Bride and groom smile and hold hands as they walk through sparkler tunnel

bride and groom kiss under sparkler tunnel after their wedding reception

groom dips bride low as friends and family hold sparklers overhead

groom cradles bride in his arms and kisses her as their friends hold sparklers overhead

Ok, so real talk. We don't have that many vineyards in this part of the world. I knew this property would provide an astounding backdrop, and it delivered. If you are planning a vineyard wedding or reception, I'm in the market to document your day! I am always updating my travel schedule, so contact me so we can get you on my calendar.

If you loved looking through Israel and Leticia's traditional ceremony and throw-down reception, check out Brian and Tiffany's wedding reception at Chattanooga Whiskey's Event Hall. If you're looking for totally untraditional, but totally in nature, definitely scroll through Margaret and Garrison's Bohemian wedding at Hemlock Falls.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings

Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, DeBarge Vineyards wedding reception, Georgia wedding photographer, St. Joseph's Catholic Church wedding

September 2, 2018 — Comments are off for this post.

The Church on Main Wedding, Chattanooga | Danielle + Alex

Danielle and Alex celebrated their love at their Church on Main wedding and reception in downtown Chattanooga, TN. Celebrated being the key takeaway from this event! The couple, their wedding party, and their family and friends gathered for a whirlwind of fun. I hope this gallery inspires you to celebrate as well.

bride and groom face each other against a brick wall. her train pools behind her on the sidewalk.

WEDDING AT CHURCH ON MAIN IN DOWNTOWN CHATTANOOGA

Danielle and Alex planned their wedding and reception both at Church on Main on Chattanooga’s Southside. The historic brick and exposed wood building delivers ambiance for any event.

The couple really wanted their wedding and reception to be a chance for all their closest family and friends to party with them. From Alex’s entrance in a Chicago Bulls jacket over his suit, to their exit to noisemakers and cowbells, this couple did not stop!

Don’t get me wrong, I also captured plenty of intimate sweetness like Danielle’s son hugging her directly following the ceremony. You guys. My heart.

brides shoes decorated with gems sit on a rich, blue chair next to her lace garter and diamond engagement ring

black wedding invitation lies next to white flowers on a white counter

bride sits with eyes closed as makeup artist applies eye makeup

bride looks at herself in her mermaid cut wedding dress an ornately carved mirror

bride looks at herself in an ornately carved mirror

woman in black dress holds a handkerchief stitched with message No Ugly Crying

bride stands in the shadows on a wooden staircase landing, looking out the bright window

bride's long train from her mermaid wedding dress pool on wooden floor. she stands at brick wall and looks over her shoulder

groom with long, dark beard fastens button on his pastel pink suit coat

groom with long, dark beard wears a pastel pink suit coat and deep blue trousers

simple metal wreaths with small flower display at the bottom hang against painted black arched windows

guestbook, a sign for cards and gifts, and a white candle sit on an ornate table next to a brick wall

guestbook and sign sit on an ornate table next to a brick wall

groom wears a Chicago Bulls basketball jacket over his suit coat as he walks the aisle at The Church on Main in Chattanooga

groom waits on the stage while bride and her father walk the aisle toward him

groom escorts bride up wooden stairs under a modern chandelier at The Church on Main

bride and groom hold hands and exchange vows under the open rafters at The Church on Main wedding in Chattanooga, Tennessee

bride and groom toast each other while officiant presents reading

bride and groom kiss under large round window at The Church on Main wedding ceremony in Chattanooga

bride and groom stop for a kiss at the end of the aisle after their wedding at The Church on Main in Chattanooga Tennessee

bride hugs young boy next to a brick wall and large window

Groom shakes hands with young man while bride greets other guests

Bride stands with family members for a family photo

Groom stands with family members for family photo

groom and bride and her son hold hands in front of a brick wall outside The Church on Main in Chattanooga, TN

BRIDAL PARTY PORTRAITS WITH AN URBAN VIBE

Danielle looked hella stunning in her mermaid cut wedding dress, and Alex wore a wonderful pastel pink suit coat. We took their bridal party photos in the streets of Chattanooga’s Southside, and I love the historic buildings framing some of these shots. The contrast of elegant fabrics against rough, aged brick gets me every time, too.

Groom and groomsmen stand in front of a tall brick wall after his Church on Main wedding

Groom and groomsmen laugh in front of a tall brick wall after his Church on Main wedding

groomsmen in dark pants, white shirts, suspenders, and brown shoes walk together down the middle of the road

groomsmen in dark pants and white shirts walk together down the middle of the road

bride and bridal party stand in front of a tall brick wall after her Church on Main wedding in Chattanooga, TN

bride and groom and bridal party stand in a line in front of a tall brick wall after their Church on Main wedding

Bride and groom hold hands in the middle of the street between old brick buildings. Their wedding party stands behind them.

Bride and groom stand close to each other in front of a brick wall

Bride stands holding groom's arm in her hands in front of a brick wall. They look at each other.

Groom sits on cement steps next to the brick exterior of The Church on Main in Chattanooga, TN. He holds bride and they laugh

bride and groom hold hands and face each other in front of a brick wall. She holds the train of her dress in her other hand.

Groom sits on cement steps next to the brick exterior of The Church on Main in Chattanooga, TN. He holds bride and they laugh

DONUTS AND DANCING FOR DANIELLE AND ALEX

Following their buffet reception dinner, Alex and Danielle served their guests donuts instead of a traditional wedding cake! It was like 31 flavors of donuts--I don’t know that I’ve ever seen such a spread of donuts like that before. I thought this was a really cool twist on tradition and loved how the couple brought such a unique twist to their celebration.

The couple closed out the night with a huge dance party with their family and friends. They decided to have a staged exit complete with noisemakers and cowbells early in the evening so I could get the photos. Then they stayed on afterward and danced late into the night!

Printed Menu sign announces meal choices next to a black, draped buffet table

White card sits on a deep blue napkin on tope of a gold charger plate.

Gold, glittered Mr and Mrs signs hang on the corner of gold cane chairs

bridesmaids stand in front of tall, arched windows at The Church on Main in Chattanooga, TN

Bride and groom enter their Church on Main wedding reception through high, white curtains

bride smiles at groom as they dance with the tall, arched windows the The Church on Main behind them. Wedding guests watch them dance.

bride smiles at groom as they dance with the tall, arched windows the The Church on Main behind them.

multiple flavors of donuts stacked on various plates. more donuts hang on dowels on a wall.

mixed donuts hang on dowels on a wall

Bride and groom stand in front of a table stacked high with donuts. They each old a donut they've bitten out of.

diamond ring and black wedding band hang inside the hole of a donut

Bride hugs her father as they dance on the bright wood floors during The Church on Main wedding reception

bride smiles and hugs her father after they share a dance. Tall, arched windows of The Church on Main are in the background.

Groom dances with a man and they laugh as they grab for each other's backsides

bride laughs and dances behind a tall man in white shirt and suspenders with friends around her

Bride dances and laughs with friends as the tall, arched windows at The Church on Main frame them.

groom and groomsmen pose together near buffet tables at The Church on Main wedding reception

bridesmaids laugh and dance together

bride and groom dance with their friends during their wedding reception

tall man with bowtie carries his friend in the middle of dancing crowd at The Church on Main in Chattanooga, TN

groom and groomsmen dance low together

DJ wears headphones near his temples and smiles while he operates his board

bride dances with friends

bride sits on a white chair. groom is on his knees on a wood floor in front of her as he prepares to take off her garter

groom wears bride's white lacy garter around his head under open rafters of The Church on Main in Chattanooga

groom places bride's white lacy garter around his head under open rafters of The Church on Main in Chattanooga

Man in black suit and shirt dances while holding the bride's garter as other men watch

Groomsmen and several friends huddle and laugh. One man wears the bride's garter on his head.

Bride and groom hold hands in the air and walk between two rows of cheering friends

Bride and groom kiss while guests clap and ring white bells around them

Bride and groom smile at each other while guests clap and ring white bells around them

Bride and groom hold hands in the air and walk between two rows of cheering friends

If you enjoyed Danielle and Alex's wedding gallery, you might like some of my other downtown Chattanooga weddings! Check out Brian and Tiffany's Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall wedding reception or Martha and Geoff's wedding reception at The Turnbull Building.

I love being your go-to wedding and elopement photographer! Whether you're planning an event in Chattanooga or you're looking to run away for a destination wedding, I'd be thrilled to document your big day. Contact me so we can start planning!

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings

Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, Church On Main wedding reception

July 21, 2018 — Comments are off for this post.

Mindy and Santiago | Wedding at Old Glory Distilling Co. Nashville

When Mindy and Santiago contacted me about photographing their wedding at Old Glory Distilling Co. in Nashville, Tennesse, I nearly died. If you know me, you know there nothing I love more than a solid drink and a fun couple, and I knew right away that their wedding was going to have both. They decided to book my premium package, so I could stay late for the reception and stressed that they hoped I would join in the festivities and have fun too. I love couples who see that marriage is something to be celebrated and should be fun! From Santiago's vows that ended with "let's take over the world," to their lively bridal party of 24 people (yep, they have way more friends than me), the day was full of laughter and good times.

Mindy and Santiago, thank you so much for letting me join your party. Cheers to many happy years!

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings

Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, Nashville wedding photographer, Tennessee wedding photographer

June 23, 2018 — Comments are off for this post.

Patten Chapel Wedding | Jason + Skylar

Groom dips his bride in the aisle between wood church pews inside a stone church with large windows all around

Jason and Skylar's Patten Chapel wedding was a dream! I'm so into this couple, their big day, and the different locations I got to shoot. I hope you enjoy looking through this gallery as much I enjoyed pulling it together.

Getting Ready for a Downtown Chattanooga Wedding and Reception

Jason and Skylar's wedding day started at some of the special places that had played a part in their relationship. Skylar got ready at their home, and Jason and his guys hung out at The Bitter Alibi downtown. Jason actually co-owns The Bitter Alibi as well as The Daily Ration, another local favorite and cool party venue in Chattanooga. After their classic Patten Chapel wedding, the couple hosted their reception at The Daily Ration that night! I was super excited to capture these two in some of the places that are so special to them.

Watercolor wedding invitation and RSVP cards painted with greens and leaves

Bride's diamond earrings, wedding band, champagne colored heels surrounded by bouquets.

Bride and bridesmaids wearing light blue pajamas and sitting on red floral bedspread

Friends tie waist ribbon bride's wedding dress

Brick facade and large, stained glass window over the front door of Patten Chapel on UTC's downtown Chattanooga campus

Groom's and groomsmen's simple boutonnieres

Bride pins a boutonniere on her father's lapel and a corsage on her grandmother's dress.

Bride pins a boutonniere on her grandfather's lapel

The two-story front porch of The Bitter Alibi in downtown Chattanooga, TN

Groom and groomsmen wearing gray suits and dark blue ties line up at wooden bar of The Bitter Alibi

Groom stands in front of window and tall indoor plants. Red sparkle lights line a white wall with contrasting black artwork

Groomsman pulls up pant leg to show bright blue socks with buffalos on them inside his brown leather ankle boots.

Groomsmen exit gray brick building

A Patten Chapel Wedding: Classic in Every Sense

Once all the heels were strapped and the ties were tied, everyone headed to the ceremony. Skylar and Jason opted for an intimate ceremony surrounded by family and friends at Patten Chapel on the UTC campus. Patten Chapel is on the more traditional side of wedding locations. Check out that beautiful wooden architecture, warm brick and wood throughout, and gorgeous light streaming through the stained glass windows. These features created a perfect backdrop for the couple’s wedding ceremony. During their day, Jason and Skylar gave me tons of creative space to play. My favorite photos from their bride and groom portraits session are with the huge windows just outside the chapel.

Groom wearing gray suit and yellow boutonniere sits and writes a note

White wedding program lists wedding party and song lyrics

Wedding party gathers outside the front doors of Patten Chapel. Deep shadowy interior contrasts with bright sky outside.

Groomsman and bridesmaid walk brick aisle. Guests sit in wood pews inside high arched ceiling with large windows all around.

Young ring bearers wearing suspenders and bowties hold hands and walk down the aisle

Bride and father walk brick aisle. Guests stand in wood pews inside high arched ceiling with large windows all around.

Groom smiles widely and groomsmen look on

Groom bows his head with emotion and groomsmen look on

Bride hugs her father while groom and two priests watch

Brick arched sanctuary of Patten Chapel with large pipe organ at the front. Guests sit in wooden pews at wedding ceremony.

Bridesmaids and groomsmen stand at front of Patten Chapel

Bride shares vows during wedding ceremony

Bride and groom share a private communion, their heads touching as she smiles.

Bride and groom stand on stone steps at the altar, kissing. Two priests and church organ behind them.

Bride and bridesmaids stand on stone steps of church altar in front of large organ pipes

Bride and bridesmaids stand between wooden pews, a large window behind them. She holds a pink, peach, and yellow bouquet.

Groom and groomsmen stand between wooden pews in front of large organ pipes in the arched brick sanctuary of Patten Chapel.

Bridal party stands in front of Patten Chapel's wooden front door, brick exterior, and tall stained glass windows

Bridal party stands cheering in front of Patten Chapel's wooden front door, brick exterior, and tall stained glass windows

Bride holds large bouquet with yellow, peach, and pink flowers in front of black framed window

Bride stands in a covered, brick arched walkway holding her bouquet at her side

Bride and groom stand between wooden pews, a large window behind them. She holds a colorful pink, peach, and yellow bouquet.

Bride and groom sit smiling at each other in a wooden pew in an arched brick sanctuary, large windows all around the room.

Groom twirls bride between wooden pews in front of large organ pipes in the arched brick sanctuary of Patten Chapel.

Bride and groom stand in front of Patten Chapel's wooden front door, brick exterior, and tall stained glass windows

Wedding Reception at The Daily Ration, one of the Coolest Party Venues in Chattanooga

After the ceremony, Jason and Skylar celebrated with a crazy fun reception! The minute Jason and his brothers started performing “Born to Be Wild” (a family tradition at every wedding), I knew that was definitely going to be the theme for the evening! This crew knew how to get down on the dance floor, and it's safe to say, everyone was sad when the party started winding down.

The covered patio of The Daily Ration lit with strings of patio lights

Guests through the large windows of The Daily Ration which have "restaurant" and "bar" painted on them

Greenery and Black Eyed Susans in a short vase on a metal platter

Bride and groom walk through fence door, green ferns sit on benches along the fence.

Bride holds groom's hand and looks back at him, laughing.

Bride and groom dance under patio cover at The Daily Ration while wedding guests watch

Bride and groom dance, foreheads bowed together. She has yellow flowers in her hair, and he wears a yellow flower boutonniere

Bride dances with her father, dressed in a dark blue suit and light blue tie.

Groom hugs his mother and kisses her cheek under patio cover at The Daily Ration as guests watch.

Groom smiles as he watches his bride dance with her grandfather

Bridesmaid in knee-length navy dress holds microphone to toast the couple

Bride and groom stand with wedding guests under patio cover, laughing

Man wearing light blue shirt and dark blue tie holds microphone and reads his toast from a leather book

Groom, bride, and wedding guests laugh

Groom wipes tear from eye while he, bride, and wedding guests laugh

Wedding cake with swirled white frosting topped with a few sprigs of greenery, a few raspberries and slices of candied orange

Bride and groom hold forks to each other's mouths to feed each other cake

Bride points finger gun at groom while he claps

Four men wearing light blue shirts and dark blue ties stand around a microphone. One man plays guitar, and they all sing.

Man swings young boy above his head on the dance floor under the patio cover at The Daily Ration

Man dips woman as they dance under outdoor patio cover at The Daily Ration

Women dance together, one woman kneels and sings

Bride dances with friends as others watch

DJ wears a black suit and headphones and looks up a song on his laptop

Party-goers dance under outdoor patio cover at The Daily Ration

Bride and groom dance and sing to each other, his hand caresses her cheek

Bride crouches in the middle of a circle of women who hold hands and sing above her

Party-goers dance and laugh

Bride lays across laps of friends under white tent with string patio lights

Groomsmen and friends laugh and dance under outdoor patio cover at The Daily Ration

Bride and groom dance with party-goers at their reception

Bride sits on wooden bar while groom kisses her. Bar staff and wine bottles and large mirror are behind them.

Bride and groom thank wedding guests at their reception on The Daily Ration patio

Groom and bride walk through crowd under sparkler tunnel, smiling at each other while guests cheer.

Groom dips bride low under sparkler tunnel. They look at each other while guests cheer.

Groom holds bride under sparkler tunnel. They look at each other, cheering.

Groom stands behind bride, hugging around her waist and kissing her cheek under sparkler tunnel

Bride and groom exit in convertible with the roof down, bride's hands raised in the sky

Jason and Skylar, thank you for letting me document your fun-loving, adventurous selves!

A huge shout-out to the following venues and vendors for creating a really beautiful day for Jason and Skylar!

Getting ready venue: The Bitter Alibi
Wedding venue: Patten Chapel on UTC campus
Reception party venue: The Daily Ration
Florals: Southerly Flower Farm

Traditional Weddings like Patten Chapel in Downtown Chattanooga

While churches, and chapels are traditional places for a wedding, I love finding new ways to showcase couples in these settings. I strive to view each couple and each wedding in a fresh way, and these traditional settings push my creative boundaries and challenge me!

Whether you're scheming up a truly out-of-bounds wedding, or you're booking a wedding in a traditional church setting, I'd be thrill to be your Chattanooga wedding photographer! CONTACT ME today to start planning.

If you loved Jason and Skylar’s traditional Patten Chapel wedding, check out Brian and Tiffany’s wedding at the First-Centenary United Methodist Church (followed by a killer reception at the Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall). Or Leticia and Israel’s traditional Catholic church wedding in Dalton, Georgia (and their gorgeous reception at DeBarge Winery and Vineyard).

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings

Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, Patten Chapel wedding, Tennessee wedding photographer, The Daily Ration wedding reception

October 7, 2017 — Comments are off for this post.

Creatively Simple Wedding at Crabtree Farms | Brian + Sylvia

Brian and Sylvia’s wedding day was a refreshing change of pace from more traditional wedding events. Crabtree Farms, a community-focused sustainable farm and agriculture resource in Chattanooga, was the venue for this gorgeous couple’s day. With themes of simplicity, minimalism, and local culture, Brian and Sylvia’s wedding day spoke volumes about their personalities, interests, and mindsets.

The main wedding colors of maroon and navy contrasted well with the floral bridesmaid dresses. The simple and stunning sunflower bouquets dotted the scenery with discreet splashes of yellow. All the greenery of Crabtree Farms made a beautiful landscape for Brian and Sylvia

After having a joyous ceremony, this special couple’s reception was full of sweetness. In lieu of cake, they served rice krispies and brownies. Staying true to their locally minded culture, they also had locally brewed beer. Following the ceremony and reception, Brian and Sylvia ended their special day with their community around a roaring bonfire and s’mores.

Full of family, community, friends, and their precious love, Brian and Sylvia’s day at Crabtree Farms inspired the plant mom in me, as well as, reminding me to stay true to myself in all aspects of my life. Thank you, Brian and Sylvia, for allowing me to be a part of your creatively simple and breathtaking day.

Second shot for Giovana Melo Creative.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings

Tags: Chattanooga farm wedding photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer

September 30, 2017 — Comments are off for this post.

Hailey and Marvin | Long Distance Love at Briar Rose Hill

From foreign exchange to vow exchange, Hailey and Marvin’s sweet story stands out as a classic tale of love. Their story begins during Hailey’s freshman year of high school when Marvin came from Belgium as a foreign exchange students. Fortunately for him, Hailey was one of the first people to help him learn English.

Even after Marvin had to return home to Europe once the exchange program was finished, he and Hailey still continued their relationship. Many plane tickets, phone calls, and miles later, Marvin moved to the USA to pursue a more solid relationship with Hailey, as well as, start his own business. His mom even learned English, so that she could get to know Hailey better.

With beautiful wedding colors of burgundy, blush, gold, navy, and white, Hailey and Marvin sealed the deal under a gorgeous oak tree at Briar Rose Hill in Bethpage, TN. Once this couple officially became wed, they danced the night away with some of their closest friends.

Marvin and Hailey are an inspiration to the old adage, “Distance makes the heart grow fonder.” Their love is evident in the way they walked, talked, danced, laughed, and looked at each other. I am so grateful I was able to be a small part in their big, beautiful day.

Second shot for: Honey and Bee Photography

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings

Tags: Chattanooga backyard wedding photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer, Tennessee wedding photographer

September 23, 2017 — Comments are off for this post.

Wedding in Historic Hiwassee Tennessee Church | Jilli + Rob

There is so much joy and happiness that comes from family members who support a new marriage and exciting additions to their family. This was definitely the case for Jilli and Rob whose wedding (and reception) was family-oriented, decorated, catered, coordinated, and planned… right down to the homemade moonshine and intimate ceremony with their closest friends and family. Even the getting ready and reception portions of this couple’s day were held on the bride’s parents’ land.

Jilli and Rob’s ceremony was particularly special. It was held in the Hiwassee Union Church, located in Reliance, TN, which is the family’s historical, primitive church beside Ocoee River. The church never had electricity installed- so no air conditioning! It's open windows, wood floors, vintage furniture, and blue walls beg to tell a story. I wish I knew all the memories that church held, but at the very least, I found an article with more on the history here.

Jilli and Rob's day was filled with special details that I loved documenting! I try to find the most unique parts of locations to take photos, so I did the bridal party and family portraits by a lemon tree at the family church. The bridesmaid gifts were specially purchased knot bracelets ("tying the knot"). The groomsmen gifts were monogrammed flasks filled with moonshine homemade by Jilli's father. And you'll notice a special rope tying tradition during the ceremony where Jill and Rob bound their hands together with rope. Even watching Jilli's father drive their RV like a party bus to and from the church, so the ladies could ride in stylish comfort!

Thank you, Jilli and Rob, for allowing me to photograph your special day that was full of love and legacy!

Second shooter: Giovana Melo.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings

Tags: Chattanooga farm wedding photographer, Chattanooga wedding photographer

June 17, 2017 — Comments are off for this post.

Fun Wedding at The Church on Main in Chattanooga | Alex + Eliza

You would think that a meeting on Tinder would end in disaster or a horror story, right? Not for Alex and Eliza! This couple met on an app and continued their love story with a fun wedding at St. Paul's Episcopal Church and reception in the Church on Main in Chattanooga, Tn.

Second shot for Our Ampersand Photo.

Published by Rachael Crowe in Weddings

Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, Church On Main wedding reception, St. Paul's Episcopal Church Chattanooga wedding

May 20, 2017 — Comments are off for this post.

Andrea and Jimmy | Jacksonville Wedding with Husky Puppies

There are some photos that are outdone by the story of love that is woven throughout. The love that this couple shared can be felt in each photo. Andrea and Jimmy’s love for each other shone brighter than the rich, vibrant colors that they chose for their special day. From the shenaniganry of getting ready to the first look to a sparkler finish, the joy of the bridal party, the families, and those attending were unforgettable. One of my personal favorite moments was when they stole a sweet moment during the reception to cuddle. When I spied their embrace, it showed a sneak peek of their happy future together.

Thank you, Andrea + Jimmy for allowing me to photograph your incredible day.

Congratulations!

Assistant Photographer: Ruthie Martin
Venue: Epping-Forest Yacht & Country Club

Published by Rachael Crowe in Travel, Weddings

Tags: Chattanooga wedding photographer, Destination wedding photographer

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