On the day that Josh and I got married, it rained. And rained. And rained some more. Of course, it was still perfect and wonderful. And I didn’t realize it at the time, but our experience helped prepare me for similar experiences I would have with my couples down the road. I’m thankful for it now, because when similar situations come up, I get to share my experience with them. I feel twice as confident when I reassure my brides that they will still get GORGEOUS photos and still have an incredible day, rain or shine. And the rain had NOTHING on these two! Their intimate garden wedding at CJ’s Off the Square in Franklin, Tennessee was absolutely amazing!

Taylor and Kyle reached out to me about a year before their wedding–which means I was looking forward to their special day for a LONG time! We had a blast at their engagement session, and I knew their nuptials would not disappoint. (Yes, I just used the word nuptials haha!) In all seriousness though, it was such a joy working with Taylor and Kyle, they are so laid back and genuinely kind and fun. It would have been difficult NOT to have had an amazing time on their big day!

 

When I arrived at CJ’s I was so excited to see them again. And so excited to work again with CJ and her team, they are truly the best of the best and her venue is STUNNING! I studied the forecast and knew it would likely rain for most of the day, so I was prepared for the worst. But the most magical thing happens at CJ’s when it rains. The garden actually becomes MORE beautiful and MORE romantic! I promise. Walking into the garden pavilion when it’s raining is like walking into a Jane Austen novel. And all of the preparations were underway to making sure Taylor and Kyle didn’t miss a beat!

Taylor’s details, all of the gold accents mixed with the green, navy and white flowers were BREATHTAKING. I was in heaven photographing her ring and shoes while my assistant, Grace, was in heaven photographing the reception details! You really can’t go wrong with this color scheme when you are already working with a fantastic backdrop like CJ’s.

Taylor was the chillest bride I’ve ever encountered. She didn’t bat an eyelash at the weather and completely lived in the moment. (I want to be like her when I grow up!) And Kyle was the same way. Both of them were fully present and ready to celebrate, and weren’t going to let a little rain slow them down.

Before seeing Kyle, Taylor shared the most heartfelt first look with her Daddy and we all sobbed like babies. It was so special.

And then, miraculously, the rain subsided just in time for Taylor and Kyle to see one another! It was–you guessed it–PERFECT! And afterwards we were able to get some super dreamy portraits in the garden.

What did I tell you about rain + the gorgeous garden? It’s pretty magical, right?! I’m still dreaming about it.

 

Before the ceremony, Kyle and his groomsmen shared a toast outside as passers-by shouted their congratulations. They were so much fun to hang out with!

Gahhhh these colors are so beautiful! Sign me up for all of the future weddings with this gorgeous trio of blue, green and white! I can’t get enough of it.

Taylor and Kyle said their vows under the garden pavilion, safely out of the rain and surrounded by their closest family and friends. There was, as I expected, lots of laughter, a few tears, and much celebrating afterward!

So much joy was captured on this day! My heart was full. (My hair was completely deflated from the rain, but my heart was FULL!)

I knew their families would be a lot of fun too, just like their bridal party. I wasn’t wrong, and after a few family portraits, it was time to hit the dance floor! Side note: they had one of the BEST DJ’s I’ve ever heard before. I got to dance to Shania Twain, Backstreet Boys AND Earth, Wind and Fire all in one night!

Taylor and Kyle, thanks for choosing me to be the one documenting your special day. Thank you for trusting me and allowing me to witness such an important milestone. And thank you for your readiness to roll with the weather and live in the moment! Like I said before, the rain had NOTHING on you guys!

Venue: CJ’s Off the Square

Florist: Olive & Birch

Cake: Baked In Nashville

Dress: Fabulous Frocks Nashville

Hair & Make Up: Jessica Arnholt

Invitation Suite: Minted Weddings

DJ: Premier Entertainment

Assistant Photographer: Grace Paul Photography