“And they lived happily ever after…”
The toast bell rang. Each person spoke and gave their toast. Lots of thanks, lots of gratitude, lots of stories. The Father of the Bride recalled the stories he read each of his daughters at bedtime when they were young. And now Jessi and Brian’s happily ever after story has begun.
The happy day in historic downtown Beaufort, South Carolina, started at The Anchorage Inn. A gorgeous home built in the 1700s, it was the perfect backdrop for the bride’s detail and getting ready photos. The groom’s mother specifically selected the room – her aesthetic vision made these gorgeous shots a reality! It was photographer heaven!
I gathered on the second level balcony with the Jessi and her mom and dad, Tracie and Tad, and the rest of her family for group photos. The porch swing suspended from jute rope and impressive Corinthian columns created the most charming set for our tableau. After a few snaps, we moved to the front of the house for one more group shot!
From there, I traveled to the ceremony location, the groom’s parent’s home, another beautiful house nestled right on Factory Creek and situated only minutes from downtown Beaufort. After a few getting ready photos with Brian and his dad, and then group shots with Brian and his parents, Veda and John, we were ready for the dock ceremony. Pretty, sheer white bows decorated the walkway to the dock, while tulle, baby’s breath, and greenery adorned the dock itself.
The ceremony, led by Reverend Dan, was as sweet as can be. This has been a moment in the making for over 10 years for Jessi and Brian! There were a few people and a lot of tears. It was no small feat to get there – Jessi and Brian battled not only the COVID obstacles, but also Brian broke his leg exactly one month prior to the ceremony. He managed excellently the entire day and made Jessi’s wedding dreams come true!
The most special parts of the reception were planned by Brian’s mom, Veda, who had several surprises for the couple! There was an elaborate family tree poster, framed photos of generations of family brides and grooms, and large framed collages of both Jessi and Brian as kids and them together as couple, going all the way back to high school. But the most special surprise was the first dance! Jessi had assumed it was not going to happen, but a small dance floor was created while Brian’s dad, John, DJed the music. And not only the bride and groom’s first dance, Jessi got to have her father/daughter dance and Brian shared the mother/son dance.
It was a perfect day and wedding for Jessi and Brian! I am so grateful I had the opportunity to capture all these wonderful moments for them and their families!
THE CREATIVE TEAM
bridal gown: allure • hair: bangs salon & spa • florals: laura clampitt
catering: fletcher’s cafe & catering • dj: dragon entertainment • photography: mary ann craddock
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