jarrett + crista • wedding • first presbyterian church, amarillo

Jarrett + Crista's wedding was my first to shoot after having Liv, and it was such a warm welcome back to the work I love! I really can't say enough about these two- and the family/community they have. Jarrett and Crista are both very intentional people, and that was reflected in so many special ways throughout their day. Leading up to the ceremony, I loved photographing these two as they joyfully anticipated their union as husband and wife. The ceremony was special- Crista's family has a special tradition of the shofar being played at the beginning, as the groom enters the room. They had their bridal party surround them at the altar- a literal cloud of witnesses. Everyone, including the guests, took part in communion as worship. It was a reverent and God-glorifying time- followed by a wonderful celebration! 

At the reception, guests enjoyed delicious food, music, and cake. Crista's cake was classic and elegant, and Jarrett's was a nod to his family's business- Fiesta Foods.  It was clear these two were so glad to be married! They left with a tortilla send-off, which was fun and chaotic and a beautiful ending to the day. Thank you both for trusting me with such a special time! 

Wedding Dress: Catherine Deane @ BHLDN

Groom + Groomsmen: Calvin Klein

Bridesmaids: J. Crew

Hair: Celia Yenor

Stationery: Wedding Paper Divas

Floral: Brenda Rusten

Cake: Canyon Cake Company

Reception: Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza

Videography: 41 Productions

kamron + katie • wedding • borger, tx

"It was such a great party," I said to Katie's father, at the end of the night. "Are you relieved that it's over?" He responded, "Nah, I've actually been pretty calm this whole time…you know, there are lots of things that could go wrong, but as long as they're married at the end of the day…everything is good." 

He couldn't have said it better. It was, of course, a gorgeous day- and Kamron and Katie were oh-so-ready to be wed. Friends and family from all over had gathered- but one thing about a wedding that always amazes me- is that you really only need 3 people to make it happen. The bride, the groom, and the authority who makes it official. Of course, the guests, details, and festivities, are blessing upon blessing.

Speaking of details, you may notice a certain superhero poking his head out of Katie's cake below. This was a tribute to Katie's adorable and incredibly intelligent son, Blaise, and also one of the bride's favorite details. Katie's mother made the cake, along with all the delicious cookies- amazing!

I got to shoot this at the church I grew up in, surrounded by many familiar faces, and having known Katie most of my life, it was a blessing to document this day for her.

Some of my favorite images are of their first look- definitely some of the favorites I've photographed in a while!

Ceremony: First Baptist Church, Borger

Reception: Borger Country Club

Wedding Dress: Brides by Demetrios

Bridesmaids: Simpledress, Etsy

Groom/Groomsmen: Vera Wang, Men's Wearhouse

Floral: Holly @ Scott Flowers, and family friends

Cake: Margaret Vance and Debbie Chowins, Tina Massengale

DJ: John Hancock, Amarillo

Hair: Teresa Borchardt

Coordinator: Shana Richardson

Stationery: Courtney Carlton Design

justin + layne • engagement • amarillo, tx

I can't believe I just photographed Laynie's engagement session! Layne is my sister, who just got engaged to Justin, if you are just now getting caught up. We wandered around downtown Amarillo and then headed out to the farmhouse- a home located waaay out on my grandparents' farm, where they will be living after they tie the knot. These two did a great job and we had a beautiful day to shoot. One of the first things that I learned about Justin (besides the fact that my sister liked him) was that he does NOT love pictures. Thankfully, he loves my sister. :) And that means he's willing to take a few photos with her. 

I am so honored to get to photograph special moments like this for my family. I have two sisters, and I am so happy to see both of them marrying faithful, fun men of God. Such a blessing for all of us!

Be prepared for a bit of an over-post...

dusty + lindsey • wedding • westminster presbyterian church, amarillo, tx

Dusty + Lindsey's wedding was another much-anticipated one for me. I absolutely love shooting at Westminster Presbyterian in Amarillo, and from what I had talked with Lindsey about pre-wedding, I knew that she had a ton of sentimental elements woven into the plan for the day. Their wedding was traditional with very personal and fun elements thrown in. It was exactly why I love being a wedding photographer in the South! I've got lots of photos to show you- along with Dusty + Lindsey's comments about their big day.

Ceremony: Westminster Presbyterian Church, Amarillo, TX

Reception: Ambassador Hotel

Wedding Gown: Oleg Cassini

Groom/Groomsmen Tuxes: Men's Wearhouse

Bridesmaids' Dresses: David's Bridal

Florist: Stevens Flowers, Canyon, TX

Cake: The Cake Company, Canyon, TX

Catering: Ambassador Hotel

DJ: Jack Light, DJ Entertainment Amarillo

Video: Lindsay Haworth, 41 Productions

Hair: Megan Johnstone, La Bella

Lindsey's custom made lace garter incorporated pieces from several generations of women in her family. Her baby ring was even included!

Instead of a First Look, Dusty + Lindsey opted to "see" each other from one side of a door. It was definitely one of my favorite moments to photograph. Here's what Lindsey had to say about it: 

Lindsey: "We talked about our day, gave each other our wedding gifts, and just laughed and giggled as we nervously prepared for the ceremony. This was so much fun to share a few moments and visit, but not see each other."

Dusty: "My most memorable moment of the day was when Lindsey was walking down the aisle. I had been looking forward to this moment all day. I kept thinking, "don't cry, don't cry..." She walked down the aisle with her dad and looked absolutely perfect. The entire day was something I will never forget."

Lindsey: "Our favorite detail of our ceremony was the "washing of the feet". It was such a sweet time with each other and with the Lord. We did this as a symbol that we both promise to walk humbly together, serve each other, and wash each other with The Word. As weeks have gone on since the wedding, our friends and family have told us countless times how beautiful this act of service was for them to observe. It was also a time of reflection for our friends and family to reflect on their personal relationship with Christ and to pray blessing over us as we began our marriage."

Any advice for future brides + grooms?

"Our advice would be to have a $ Money Dance $. This was the best thing we did at the reception. Our guests paid a dollar, two or more to dance with both of us. By the end of several songs, we had made A LOT of money. We had very generous guests!! :) We used that money for excursions on our honeymoon, a candlelight dinner on the beach, and an afternoon massage. 

Also, don't be afraid to incorporate your creativity and ideas into the wedding or reception. We took our favorite foods, ideas, and beliefs to create a memorable ceremony and reception. Step out of the box and make it YOUR wedding. We kept it traditional, but definitely made it "ours"."

Congrats you two!

brett + ashlee • wedding • amarillo, tx

I had been looking forward to this wedding all year, and am FINALLY getting to post it! Brett and Ashlee are so much fun and I knew their wedding would be absolutely fabulous. They were wed in June at one of my favorite churches in Amarillo, Westminster Presbyterian Church, and the reception was hosted at a private hangar at the Tradewind Airport. It was fitting since Brett is a pilot, AND they got engaged mid-flight! You can read about their engagement in a beautifully written article by McKenzie @ Parie Designs HERE. 

Ash + Brett selected some of the absolute best vendors in the West Texas area, who created a stylish and enjoyable event. We had such a blast- and it was clear that everyone else was, too.

Like always, I interviewed Ashlee who is just back from her honeymoon, so I'll be including some of her thoughts in my post. 

Ceremony:  Westminster Presbyterian Church

Reception: Private Hangar at Tradewind Airport

Floral, Event Design, and Coordination: Parie Designs

Wedding Gown: Melissa Sweet @ Priscilla of Boston Dallas

Bride's Shoes: Stuart Weitzman, stamped by

Bride's Exit Dress: Custom designed by Sherri Hill, sash from Bridal Boutique in Lewisville, TX

Groom's Tux: Men's Wearhouse

Bridesmaids Dresses: J. Crew

Bridesmaids Shoes: Betsey Johnson

Bride's Cake: Cakes N More, Amarillo

Groom's Cake: The Cake Company, Canyon

Caterer: Coors Cowboy Club

Reception Band: Chancy Bernson Band

DJ: All About Music

Video: Lindsey Haworth, 41 Productions

Hair + Makeup: Staci Nelson, Staci's Salon & Spa

Rings: Tiffany & Co. and Tungston

 Ashlee affixed Brett's first gift to her to her bouquet- diamond earrings.

Parie and her team completely outdid themselves! So many gorgeous details.

A little touch-up before the walk down the aisle...

Words cannot describe the elegance and extravagance of the reception. Everything was perfectly executed- and gorgeous!

michael + breann • wedding • moonwater weddings, amarillo, tx

Michael and Breann were married just a few weeks ago at Moonwater Weddings in Amarillo. I love October weddings- the weather was crisp, but not too cold, and the sun was a goldeny-yellow. Michael and Breann were equally as wonderful to work with. Right before their first look I asked Michael how he was doing and his response was, "I'm good- I just hope Breann is doing okay." Breann, you picked a good one. :) These two are expecting a baby girl in December and I know she is already much-loved. Here are some of my favorite images from their big day!

Wedding Gown: David's Bridal

Men's Suits: Men's Wearhouse

Bridesmaids Dresses: David's Bridal

Venue: Moonwater Weddings

Caterer: Cattle Call

Hair: Milan Institute

Makeup: Jennifer Jowers- sister of the bride (also Matron of Honor)

Invitations: Designin' Minds

Programs: Michael + Breann made their own

They both picked their First Look as the favorite moment of the day. 

She said: "I was getting a little nervous as time was getting closer and seeing him helped put me at ease."

He said: "Seeing Bre in her wedding dress for the first time. She looked so beautiful. "

There were a ton of little boys at this wedding who were all having so much fun running around and playing. This little guy's name is Knox!

jeremy + haylee • wedding • amarillo, tx

Jeremy and Haylee were married at Moonwater Weddings in Amarillo. I'd never been to this venue before, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised! It was decorated beautifully by the owner, Marci, and her staff- you could see Haylee's style and personality mixed into the decor everywhere- and everything was right there- which made the day run so smoothly. I had such a great time with Jeremy and Haylee- they were both so kind and patient and easygoing. You could tell they were truly enjoying their big day. Here are some of my favorite images- along with Haylee's commentary looking back!

Venue: Moonwater Weddings

Dress: Maggie Sottero

Hair: Katrina Renteria

Makeup: Charisa Bryant with Mary Kay

Cake: The Cake Company (Canyon, TX)

Florist: Budding Art by Kerry

DJ: All About Music

Haylee's reflections on their first look:

"I would most definitely recommend it! It was such a special moment for us. It helped to ease the anxiety of the day. On such a huge day, no one can ease your mind like your best friend and the first look gave us this chance."

Every one of my wedding packages includes two shooters- and this is why! You can see Shanna's  shot on the left, and mine on the right.

...and these are both Shanna's images. She makes me so jealous sometimes, haha!

Haylee's daughter Lexi and niece Brooklyn were the perfect flower girls.

Ceremony time!

They both chose Haylee's walk down the aisle as their most memorable moment. 

Haylee: "Walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing Jeremy about to tear up as I was walking down. It was so awesome to have all the people that we love the most sharing in that special moment with us. Also, when Lexi ran up to us as we walked back down the aisle, she was crying. It was so special for us to hug as a family for the first time. It was awesome to see the emotion she felt starting this new chapter in our lives."

Jeremy: "The most memorable moment on our wedding day was hearing the song "Marry Me" by Train and watching Haylee walk down the aisle. I was doubting whether or not I was going to tear up earlier that day, but as soon as that one song started I knew Haylee was going to be coming down the aisle to marry me and I almost lost it!"

Sweet Lexi cried the whole time...

Jeremy and Haylee let me take them out at sunset for a few more portraits-

This car was passed down from Jeremy's Dad to him.

Money dance!

Jeremy and Haylee spent their honeymoon in Ocho Rios, Jamaica and said it was awesome. Haylee also said that her biggest piece of advice to future brides is to "get everything you can done before the wedding day so you can be as stress free as possible! And don't be afraid to delegate, people want to help and you want to be able to enjoy the day! Oh yeah, shop on etsy! I found so many awesome things for the wedding that I wouldn't have found anywhere else."

BEST OF 2010 • WEDDING PARTY

Each day I will be posting a new category full of my favorite images from 2010. It's your job to vote for your favorite! You can vote once a day for each category until Jan. 31st. The winners will win a FREE 16x20 of their image!

Don't forget to also vote for these other categories- you can vote for each category once a day!

ENGAGEMENT

BRIDAL

FAMILIES

SENIORS/PORTRAITS

BRIDE + GROOM

Today's Category:

WEDDING PARTY

NOTE: To vote for an image, select the bubble BELOW the image.

michael + meredith • wedding • amarillo, texas

What a perfect day! The weather, the people, and the venue were absolutely gorgeous- not to mention there was so much love all around. Michael + Meredith were married at First Presbyterian Church in Amarillo, which had no lack of pretty places to shoot. I totally enjoyed Meredith's laid-back attitude and the fact that the whole event had been planned perfectly. Now for the images!

LOVED Meredith's wedding dress by Bellisima.

Michael and Meredith each sent a note to each other before the ceremony. Michael's note was accompanied by a pretty little blue box (THE Tiffany's robin egg blue to be exact)!

The ring on the left was what it contained. Beautiful and so special.

.

Meredith's father picked up this sixpence over 35 years ago while traveling in Europe- before he had even met his wife! 

The reception was held just down the street at the Khiva Shrine. It was the perfect setting for a delicious dinner catered by Cattle Call and cake by Tina Massengale. (Which were also my choices for my own reception almost 5 years ago!)

HELLOO awesome getaway car!

I loved Meredith's advice for future brides:

Take a few days either before or after your wedding to open presents, put them away and clean out all the boxes before you have to go back to work. Trust me, it's worth it!

Oh, and remember to LAUGH. There will be so many things that don't go exactly right, and if you let them get to you, it will ruin your day! So laugh!

dale + melissa • wedding • amarillo, tx

Dale + Melissa were married at Hillside Christian Church in Amarillo on July 10. The skies that day were SO beautiful- true West Texas. I loved getting to work with these two- Melissa has such a bubbly personality, but at the same time she was so intentional with the details of her day. They both said their favorite moment of the day was seeing each other as Melissa was escorted down the aisle. A meaningful ceremony and fantastic party followed! Here are some of my favorites:

I could feel it...these guys wanted to jump...so jump we did!

I don't usually do so much jumping at weddings- but with Melissa's volleyball background, and Dale's impressive ups, I was really feeling this photo...