Ten Wedding Highlights of 2023 | Birmingham AL Wedding Photography
It’s always incredibly hard to choose which weddings to highlight as the year draws to a close, because I feel such a connection to every couple and their story. I feel so honored that I get to play a small role in their dream day, and never take it for granted. In addition to being such a wide variety of couples and love stories, I also got to shoot at a beautiful assortment of locations sprawled throughout our southern state, including Park Crest Event Center, Camelot Manor, the Farrell, and Swann Lake Stables. The following weddings represent just a sampling of the beautiful families and moments that I was privy to in 2023, and I hope you take the time to scroll all the way to the end!
Amanda and Willy: These two made an impression on me because their wedding day happened when the bride’s sweet grandmother was unfortunately hospitalized. This couple took time in the middle of their day between the ceremony and reception to visit her and include her in their memories. Grandma felt loved and treasured, and it spoke volumes about the type of people they are. This is not a huge surprise to those who know them, since they both serve our country in the Air Force. They are generous and kind, and I loved being a part of their day.
Emma and Austin: I adored this cheery and colorful spring wedding! It was adorned with lots of wildflowers and the bride was grinning from ear-to-ear the whole day. Their day also held one of the most meaningful moments I’ve witnessed at a wedding: one of Emma’s bridesmaids prayed a spirit-filled and powerful blessing over her before she walked down the aisle. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room, and it was a moment I’ll remember forever.
Jessie and Adam: I’m not sure who the real star of this wedding was: the bride or their adorable golden retriever. Their spring affair at Camelot Manor was incredibly fun, and packed with personalized details and touches. Camelot Manor has immense grounds and an impressive pavilion, and there were so many places with stunning backdrops to capture the bride and groom. I think my cheeks hurt from smiling after their dreamy day wrapped up!
Lauren and Chris: When I saw the elegant color scheme of this wedding, I knew I was in for a treat. This stunning couple were all about the details, and it reflected in their thoughtful, intentional, and meaningful day. They were wed on a gorgeous spring day at Park Crest, and that event facility stands out for it’s sweeping acreage and bright green foliage. One added detail that I loved was the elegant cross that stood at the front of their ceremony and represented their faith.
Riley and Ben: Something about this day just exuded sheer joy! These two never stopped smiling, and it was pretty clear that they were so happy their big day had finally arrived after lots of planning and execution. Riley is a special education teacher, and she and I connected instantly over our shared degree. One unique thing about their images is the location: the University of Alabama! That was where my photography career began, and so it held special meaning for me.
Emily and Sean: Over the years, I’ve photographed plenty of “first look” moments, but Sean gave me one of the best genuine reactions I’ve ever seen! I loved it. He actually dropped to the ground when he caught a glimpse of his bride, and was in total awe. Emily is beautiful both inside and out, and was an amazingly organized and kind bride to work with. She also wore a long, lace veil that was a family heirloom, so that was a special and intricate part of her bridal photos. Their day was filled with love and lots of laughter!
Jennifer and Jay: This wedding ceremony marked my first time shooting at Canterbury United Methodist Church, and I can’t wait to go back. It’s an exquisite, all-white venue with an awe-inspiring stained glass window as a centerpiece. All the natural light flows in through the many windows, and made for some absolutely perfect lighting. After their ceremony (and after another memorable first look where the groom sobbed with joy), they enjoyed a fun reception at the Florentine!
Daniel and Heather: If there was one word to sum up this wedding, it would be “fun”! This pair took the elements that were important to them (like family, friends, and making memories), and embraced those things wholeheartedly. They even played rock-paper-scissors to decide who would say their vows first! They also added little touches like matching pajamas for the bridesmaids, and adorable sunnies for the flower girls. Lastly, I also loved their one-of-kind cake, topped with a silken and oversized bow. Such a happy day!
Julie and Lance: This dreamy day centered around one thing: family. The theme of family was woven throughout many details, including the heartfelt vows. Julie’s two sons were the groomsmen and when they walked their mom down the aisle, I definitely teared up. They were so excited for their mom, and the entire family was supportive and joyful. We took lots of photos down by the water, where the stones and greenery made Julie’s colorful bouquet stand out. Congratulations to these two!
Lauren and Grantham: A Christmastime soiree? It sounded like something straight out of a Hallmark movie, and I was totally here for it! Lauren and Grantham embraced the holiday season with loads of greenery and pops of red, but kept it very elegant at the same time. They were so excited to get married, and that excitement carried through to every aspect of their big day. Lauren and her mom were precious together, and seeing that mom-daughter bond was a highlight for me.
Thank you, as always, for tuning into my little corner of the internet and allowing me to share some of these special moments! I feel so honored that these couples (and others) invited me to document their days. I’d love to work with you if you are a 2024 bride!
