Natalie & TJ

He was nervous. From the moment I walked into the groom’s room, TJ was full of anticipation. As he dressed, his fingers shook. Natalie’s father came over and helped him with cufflinks and buttons and TJ just smiled. That same nervousness carried over all morning. He double checked that everyone was in the right place. He made sure that every detail was attended to. He was making sure that the day went perfectly just for Natalie. And it did! When we arrived at the first look location, he was already starting to tear up. But when he and Natalie locked eyes for the first time on their wedding day, his anxiousness melted and the biggest smile covered his face. He was marrying his true love. The day was full of sweet emotions!

One of the most admirable traits in my opinion is perseverance. To quote the amazing show, This is Us, take the sourest lemon life has to offer and turn it into something resembling lemonade. Natalie has done just that with her life. For someone who has lost so much, she is the most kind and loving person you will meet. Her smile will brighten any room. Not only has she remained so positive despite life’s lemons, she took the time on her wedding day to honor those who had passed. Natalie wore her mother’s wedding gown which fit her perfectly without any alterations, a sign to me that it was meant to be. Attached to her bouquet were photos of her mom and brother as well. I know they were watching down smiling over this day. Surrounded by a huge 24 person bridal party, you could tell that they were well loved! Although Natalie’s daughter Carmella stole the show most of the day. Natalie and TJ also paid tribute to TJ’s somoan roots with a fun dance during the reception. It was something I will never forget!

To say that this day was stunning would be an understatement. The florals from The Purple Magnolia stole my heart. The suspended florals arrangements above the tables was a show stopper! And the beautiful waterfront scenery of the Historic Rice Mill gave the perfect backdrop for the day. The mix and match bridesmaid dresses perfectly complimented their blush, mauve and metallic color scheme. We incorporated as much of that gorgeous Southern Charm that Charleston had to offer throughout the day, from their first look and portraits in Historic downtown to the bridal party photos under the mossy oaks. The gorgeous backdrop was enough to make you forget the humidity! And indeed this wedding was after my Charleston loving heart! Natalie and TJ, I feel so honored to not only have captured your wedding day, but to have shared in your joy. Congrats on a beautiful beginning to a happy life!

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