Intimate & Historic Paducah Wedding

Lauren (she/her) and Dean's (he/him) intimate, historic wedding in Paducah, Kentucky is literally what wedding photographers dream about. Not only was it filled with gorgeous details and dreamy light, but they have such a big love for each other and everyone around them, and it really came through in their images. I feel so lucky to have been a part of their wedding day.

Driving down to Paducah from Louisville was a wonderful way to start the day. It's easy to get used to how stunning Kentucky is, but as I drove through the rolling hills in Western Kentucky I was in awe. I always get "warmed up" on a wedding day with detail shots— Lauren's dress was so perfectly her. I couldn't even imagine how she found one to fit her style and personality so seamlessly, but soon I learned that her mother Amy made it by hand and it all made sense. In eleven years of photographing weddings, I don't think I've seen a handmade dress - let alone one sewed by the bride's mother! All of their details felt that personal and I absolutely loved it. Dean said, "Lauren being a graphic designer by trade really helped keep the aesthetic timeless and classic. She has a great eye!" and I couldn't agree more. 

For their ceremony, "we wanted to incorporate both our religious upbringings in the service. It was important for me to include some Filipino traditions, the coins, cord, and veil, in the service to honor my heritage and our commitment to each other. We skipped the candle lighting and some other traditions (sand, ribbon, etc) and trimmed down some of the Christian traditions to just what we wanted and felt was right."

My favorite moment of the day ended up being their favorite moment as well, which makes me incredibly happy. After the dance floor had been going for a little while, the sun was getting pretty low, so I snagged them and we snuck out to the fire escape to watch the sunset. I always try to give me couples a breather to reflect on the day and really take it all in at some point and I'm so glad they enjoy it as much as I do. 

I'll leave you with some words of wisdom from the couple, "I got this advice from a bunch of people for our wedding day, but I'll pass it along: The day goes by so quickly so it's important to stop worrying about everything and slow down and notice all the details and the little moments. Also to make sure to take time to be alone together and enjoy some moments alone together as newlyweds."

Venue: The Grand Lodge // Florals: Flower and Furbish // Wedding Gown: Made by Lauren's Mom, Amy Smith // Bridesmaid Dresses: Weddington Way // Groomsmen's suits: Indochino // Caterer: Tomi Blom with The Grand Lodge // DJ: Sound Services DJ Entertainment // Cake: Artisan Kitchen // Make-up: F.A.C.E. Makeup Artistry // Hair: Megan Bandera // Bow Tie: Tie Bar // Cufflinks: BHLDN // 

Elle & Suzy // Spring Wedding at the Lincliffe Estate

It's always really hard for me to choose a favorite moment on wedding days, but I will never forget Suzy's face when she saw Elle for the first time at the ceremony. It's way up at the top of my list of best moments from the day (although it was full of amazing moments). If you're short on time, scroll down to the start of the ceremony photos because I really don't want you to miss those reaction shots.

When I first pulled up to the Lincliff Estate I was blown away and I have never been SO GLAD to get to a venue early. There was enough time for me to explore the gardens and once again I found myself fangirling over plants at a wedding. It ended up raining throughout the ceremony (and well into the reception), but it made it feel really intimate and fun. Their grandmothers were the flower girls and one of their best friends was the ring bearer. They had several friends and family members do readings throughout the ceremony— it felt personal, intentional, and romantic. 

I would be lying if I said I didn't get a little teary during the toasts and as Elle & Suzy danced with their families. With every interaction, you could tell how much everyone there adored them. Also, EVERYONE was tearing it up on the dance floor— I don't know if I've ever seen a dance floor so packed and full of energy. 

If you're wanting to see even more gorgeous spring florals Angela & Jon and Lauren & Joey brought their A-game to the floral department as well. Also Elle & Suzy's engagement session was so much fun— you really should check it out if you haven't seen it already. Or even if you've already seen it because it's that good. As always, I've linked to all the amazing vendors at the bottom of the post. 

Elle & Suzy’s wedding was featured over on Catalyst Wedding Co!

Wedding Coordinator: Alicia Sarantis with Weekend Wedding Warrior // DJ: DJ Akib // Florist: Jamie Fairman with State & Arrow // Caterer: Farm to Fork // Videographer: White Owl Weddings

Cozy Autumn Wedding at Springhouse Gardens

I want to start by sharing a little snippet of what Austin and Micaha said about working with me, because I don't think any review has ever so accurately described my dorky behavior. "When we first met Sarah for our engagement session we knew we had made the right decision. She was completely fan-girling over the greenhouse that we had our photos taken in. Her enthusiasm made us laugh and feel incredibly comfortable with her." I am still fan-girling over that greenhouse engagement session, this amazing couple, and their wedding day. 

Austin & Micaha have an enormous love for everyone they surround themselves with. Their wedding day focused on their relationship and their commitment to each other, but they also made very intentional and thoughtful decisions on how to show the impact their families and friends have had on them over the years. They have an incredible, independent, and smart nearly-two-year-old girl, Charlie. She was a great flower girl and her reactions throughout the day were priceless. Charlie is not nearly as amused by my antics as her parents are, but she had a wonderful time celebrating. 

Micaha's father passed away when she was young— she had his picture in her bouquet to make sure he was part of their day. When it came time for the special dances, Micaha suprised family members that have meant a lot to her over the years by inviting each of them to the floor to share a dance with her. Her dances with her mother and brother were laid-back, filled with chatting and smiles. Then she invited her father-in-law to the dance floor. He clearly wasn't expecting it— and immediately covered his mouth and cried. I saw this same sweet expression from Austin countless times— at that moment I knew exactly where he got it. Their dance was sweet, upbeat, and silly and I loved seeing each relationship reflected in these moments. They finished the special dances by swaying together with Charlie.

Other items of note: they followed the southern tradition of burying bourbon before the wedding for good weather— it was hovering around 40 degrees all day, but never rained despite the forecast saying it would, so I 100% call this a win. Micaha's side of the wedding got ready at their adorable historic home in Lexington and I dorked-out over the giant fiddle leaf fig, their book collection, and the coral pieces they had around the house! Also, they had two food trucks serving dinner and everything was AMAZING. Okay, that's enough from me— I hope you enjoy their pictures as much as I do! If you are looking for more Kentucky farm vibes check out Angela & Jon's Blackacre wedding or Liv & Daniel's bohemian Gingerwood wedding. 

Austin & Micaha’s wedding has been featured on Simply Southern Weddings, The Knot, Tops Lexington, and Boho Weddings.

Venue: The Barn at Springhouse // Florals: White Cat Weddings // Appetizers and Bar: Bluegrass Catering // Food Trucks: Bradford BBQ & Minton's // Cake: Martine's Pastries //DJ: DJ Connection // Hair : Maddie Wofford // Make-Up: Kelli Marshall // Bride's Dress: Leanne Marshall through Carrie Karibo Bridal // Bridesmaid's Dresses: Azazie's Dusk Dresses // Groom's Outfit: Geno's // Wedding Coordinator: Sara Rogers with Shelly Fortune Event Design // Videographer: Reel Deal Creative