Leah and Chad’s wedding reflected everything that we all love so much about them. It was full of joy with laughter resonating throughout the woods. The day was casual and comfortable yet simply elegant. Most of all, when you see the two of them together there is so much love that it seeps into your entire being as well. They are the epitome of made for each other.
When I arrived at Boettcher Mansion and saw Leah the excitement welled up so much I had to take a breath. Her mom, sisters and best friends were all around her. They were dancing and singing to classic 90’s music, drinking champagne and curling their hair. It felt like a slumber party. I heard that upstairs with the boys was not much different. Okay, they weren’t dancing to Mariah Carey (or were they) but they were having some laughs and messing around while they all got ready together.
One of my favorite parts of a wedding day is the moment just before a groom sees his bride. When doing a first look we are typically out there with them waiting for the bride, chatting a little. You can always see the nervousness and excitement in their eyes. They know, when I stop talking and lift my camera that she is coming. It always gets them. There is a moment where they realize this is really happening and they are the luckiest man in the whole world. I feel like that moment lasts a lifetime. With people like Chad you know that he lives and breathes that thought everyday. It showed on his face in that moment and it shows in his actions everyday her forward.
Leah’s love for Chad is also something to be admired. She is kind and giving and would lay anything down for him. When it comes to Chad he melts her heart and strengthens her spirit and she gives everything she has to him.
Hands down, this was one of my favorite ceremonies of all time. It was hilarious and sweet and I am pretty sure we were all laughing while crying and vice versa. I wish I could recount the many jokes or sweet moments. I do feel like the photo where Leah is reaching to wipe away the tear says it all. Especially since they gave each other a high five as they were announced. Yes, they kissed too.
All in all my heart is so filled with joy that these two became one. Separately they are incredible people. Together, they are unstoppable. Congratulations Leah and Chad!
Vows and custom guest book made out of wood pieces.
Bridesmaids all gather around to help Leah put on her dress.
The sister of the bride captures a sneak peek for Instagram.
Father of the bride needs a little pampering too.
Bowties and custom cuff links.
Cheers to the groom.
The groom looking suave right before he gets to see his bride.
Leah and Chad prepare for their first look.
Leah walks all the way up to Chad before he gets to see her for the first time.
Views of the Continental Divide with the Bride and Groom.
Leah’s ballgown wedding dress deserves a spin or two.
The woods on top of Lookout Mountain are so dreamy.
This wedding party is a tight knit group of friends!
I love the girls multiple shades of bridesmaids dresses.
The back patio of Boettcher Mansion is perfect place for a ceremony. It has a great view and is so intimate nestled in the woods.
Leah hand-wrote every escort card.
Cheers to the bride and groom.
First Dance.
Boettcher Mansion lights up beautifully at dusk.