Stephen + Gillian

August 18, 2018

Stephen and Gillian planned the perfect summer wedding with the ceremony at Hilldale church of Christ and the reception, following, at The Belle Hollow, in Clarksville, TN.  It was supposed to rain all day long so I think they were a little nervous but it was the perfect day.  Not horribly hot with clouds on and off all day and ZERO rain!  

We started the day at The Belle Hollow where Gillian and her bridesmaids were having hair and makeup done.  The Belle Hollow was just beautiful when we walked in.  They had everything almost completely decorated so it was the perfect backdrop for detail shots.  

Weren't her flowers just stunning!  I love when brides order arrangements from Sango Village Florists because I know they will be the most lovely flowers.  These were in shades of blush with a little blue and a blue green shade of greenery.  Her dress was simply amazing.  It was an off the shoulder very southern dress with a rose gold belt drawing attention to her tiny waist.  They ordered their guest book and loved having their names on the front.  Their beautiful cake came from Cakes By Nichole.  

Before their first look Gillian had hair and makeup done and didn't seem terribly nervous at all!  Stephen arrived completely dressed and got there early.  I love that my second shooter was there to capture him waiting and pacing.  I loved those images.  Gillian's mom helped her in her dress and it was just a sweet moment.  

Once both were ready we had a beautiful first look at what is normally a gorgeous ceremony spot at The Belle Hollow.  I really loved how happy they both were!

We shot some family formals inside the venue before heading to the ceremony location at Hilldale church of Christ.  The families were a dream to work with and were exactly in the right space so that it was just so quick and fluid.  

They were SO surrounded by love!!!  I love when brides and grooms just have the most supportive families.  It makes me so happy for them!  Once those were completed we all drove over to Hilldale to prepare for the ceremony.  The ceremony was so moving.  The minister who married her parents, married them.  I just loved it so much.

We went back to the Belle Hollow for the reception.  I would be remiss if I didn't talk about this bridal party.  They were so lovely to work with.  No one complained about the heat, although by the time we did bridal party pictures at the church, it was quite hot out.  They just loved the bride and groom they were there to support.

The Belle Hollow provided the food that ALL of the guests enjoyed and the dj had so many up enjoying the dance floor.  I love sweet receptions bathed in sunlight and loving first dances!

Following the ceremony the beautiful couple went to Disney World for their honeymoon.  Here are a few portraits with the bride and groom!  Didn't they just look stunning?

Before they left we had a sparkler exit.  It wasn't quite dark yet but I thought the images looked unique and beautiful with the sparkers in the daylight.  They seem dreamy to me.  Gillian and Stephen, I wish you the longest and best most loving marriage.  Thank you for trusting me all day and for weeks before.  I have loved working with you both and your families.  I can't wait for you to see your gallery! Thank you!!

Thank you Stephen and Gillian!!  

Mandy