I fell in love with Emily and Bobby at our first meeting. They were genuine, sincere, and filled with joy. They wanted their engagement photos at Cheaha State Park, a spectacular park which I’ve loved since Will & Suz’s sunrise session there.

Emily told me how she fell in love with my work, from portraits of guests to the way posed my brides. They weren’t looking for a “regular” wedding photographer. They wanted someone to tell their story on their big day. I am always so honored when couples choose me to tell their story, not to just take their wedding pictures. There is a difference. Emily and Bobby also had me capture their intimate rehearsal dinner at theMcClain Lodge, where they would be tying the knot the next day. There was hot chocolate, a campfire, s’mores and lots of laughter. Karry and I were welcomed in by their family and we knew the next day was going to be amazing.

Karry and I headed out of our cabin, nestled in the woods behind the lodge, to scout out locations for the day and, of course, to visit the McClain Petting Zoo (I still want the beautiful Highland cow that I can’t convince Karry that we need).

All of the little details of this wedding came together beautifully, from Emily’s flowers and boots to her choice of a green velvet bridesmaid dress to their ceremony location. Although the Bobby didn’t get his “surprise runaway ostrich” he had secretly hoped would make an appearance, his bride did surprise him with the beautiful sound of bagpipes playing for walking down the aisle and their send off.