This is one of those stories where we barely know where to start. When we think back on our time spent with Samantha & TJ in 2017, every second has been joyful and adventurous! Before we ever got to meet them in person you couldn’t help but fall in love with Samantha’s personality! She always exuded a genuine joy that was second to none about her relationship with TJ and about everything leading up to her wedding! Her excitement was contagious and truly spreads to those around her! The first time we met her and TJ in person was for their engagement session at Rumbling Bald Resort in Lake Lure, NC. Samantha had expressed that she wanted to do the majority of her engagement session in a canoe on the water. Based on the way she asked us, I’m sure she was certain we were going to think she was crazy, but we absolutely loved the idea! I would say we were almost as excited as her! Any time we can add a little adventure and uncertainty to our shoots, it makes it a little more exciting! Their engagement was all things romantic and fun! We started with a nice sun kissed walk on the beach and after floating around the lake for a little while trying not to crash into each other while keeping a steady enough hand to capture some beautiful images, we ended on the banks of the lake and discussed wedding details over dinner! After getting to know her and TJ much more after their engagement and getting to see how they interact with each other had us absolutely pumped for their big day!
Prior to the wedding we did get the opportunity to meet up with Samantha one more time and on this occasion we also met her mother Rosemary who was simply the sweetest (and super helpful might we add!). We were glad to have an extra hand as it was Samantha’s bridal session! Bridals are a ton of fun and it’s always a good idea to bring an extra hand or two! Samantha was stunning! On top of being a beautiful bride she absolutely rocked her bridal session. We’re pretty sure our jaws dropped when we saw her in person and we could hardly wait to see TJ’s face when we saw Samantha for the first time during their first look which was still a month away!
When the big day finally arrived temperatures plummeted but it did not slow Samantha & TJ or their loved ones down one bit, in fact I would say it added an element of excitement to the entire day! After all, what’s a winter wedding without a little cold? Their wedding day went perfectly according to plan and the highlight for us was their first look! TJ is the typical strong silent type but even he couldn’t hold back the joy when he got to see Samantha for the first time in her dress. He was full of delights and we don’t blame him one bit as Samantha looked amazing! We also loved that these two brought a special someone to their special day. He had four legs, he was about 7 inches tall, light blonde hair, and he was so damn cute! His name is Hunter and he was their fur baby, and just wait until you see the cuteness below :)
Samantha tells us that she’s already planning an Anniversary session with her TJ, and Hunter and we simply cannot wait as this journey just keeps getting better and better!
A special thanks to all of the amazing wedding vendors!
Venue: The Altamonte Theater
Planning/Coordinating: Sarah Elizabeth Events
Florals: Summer Fresh Flower Farm
Music: Shane's DJ Service
Catering: Moe's Orignals BBQ
Hair & Make up: Make up by Monie
Rentals: Classic Event Rental