Hurricane Florence was a nightmare for so many people last weekend, and continues to cause devastation throughout the Carolinas and beyond. The severity of what could have been in Virginia was sobering, so when it looked like the eye of the storm was heading for Hampton Roads, everything shut down - people evacuated, plans were cancelled, and everyone settled in for the unknown. And then - nothing happened. There was hardly any rain, let alone a hurricane, and just like that everything was back to normal.
For Harrison and Lauren, their entire wedding was changed. At the last minute they were left without a venue or a plan. A day that should have been at the Planter’s Club was suddenly moved to his parents’ house. Vendors changed, the vision was different, and truthfully, everyone should have been emotional on Saturday - and not necessarily in a good way!
Yet when we showed up, Lauren was all smiles. She admitted the week was crazy (how could it not be?!) but there were silver linings to the dark cloud. Harrison’s home meant so much to them - it’s the place they got engaged! - and many of their guests could still make it. Lauren still looked stunning in her Grecian-style gown (which, by the way, she designed herself), Scottish roots were tied in through the men’s kilts and blue thistle that popped in gorgeous bright bouquets, and we were able to take ALL the portraits outside on a street barely five minutes from where they will call home as newlyweds. Different? Absolutely. But meaningful? YES.
These two have been together for 11 years, and the strength of their relationship was on full display as they navigated the stress of a wedding day compounded by all the other factors. They laughed, they cried after they were married, and their joy was not stolen by hurricanes or anything else. That, above anything else, was the most beautiful part of their day.
Harrison and Lauren, we were honored to be counted among the family and friends who saw you two pledge to be together forever. We were astounded at the lightheartedness of the event, at the amazing number of people who braved terrifying forecasts to surround you with love, and we were inspired by your heartfelt vows. Never forget that, above the prettiness of a wedding day, your marriage is what shone through - which is exactly as it should be.
Invitations: Multi-print, Inc. | Dress: Anomalie | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie | Bridesmaid Accessories: Kendra Scott | Menswear: Atlanta Kilts | Florals: Johnson’s Gardens | Venue: Private Home | Catering: Friends + Family
Their first look was extra special - not only had Harrison not seen Lauren’s dress, she hadn’t seen his kilt!
It did not rain all afternoon so we could take the portraits outside and while the ceremony was safely inside, the beautiful sun still shone through.
The generations looked on as they said I do…
The reception was filled with colorful flower arrangements, sunset portraits on the back deck overlooking the water, and sweet moments of dancing in between.
Congratulations, Harrison and Lauren!
