I met them last fall when I photographed their engagement session. Their smiles and happiness told me that they were so in love.  Even though it was freezing cold, Grant didn’t complain, and I knew then that he loved this girl on his arm.  This has been a whirlwind year for them, including the purchase of their home.  It seems like just yesterday we did their engagement session, and now their wedding is also a sweet memory.

The Bowen wedding was just perfect.  We had a timeline, and even though we got off schedule a bit here and there, everyone was amazing to work with, and in no time, we were caught up and even ahead.  And because they chose to do a first look, we were able to grab such a variety of bride/groom shots.  When I think back to this day, it will always be with a smile, because Brittany, Grant, and both their families are such uplifting personalities.  They were an absolute joy to photograph, and I already consider them friends.

 

Not everyone wants to do a first look, but those who do enjoy being fully present at their reception.  Additionally, they are able to have so many more poses and bride/groom photos.  There isn’t a right or wrong decision for sure, but if you are one the fence, I don’t think you will regret a first look.  Brittany and Grant chose to have all their photos done prior to their wedding.   We grabbed a few sunset photos after the ceremony, and after that, the night was fully theirs.

We had a timeline of events, but with every single wedding I’ve photographed in over 20+ years of nuptials, not everything happens as planned.  Brittany opened her gifts earlier in the day, but Grant ended up opening his with Brittany present.  It was such a sentimental moment, and I know it will always be a special part of their wedding memories.

With another quick decision, we saw clouds coming in and knew there would be no sunset photos.  Brittany and Grant were onboard to grab some shots before they entered their reception.  It worked out beautifully.  The sun even peeked out at us for a few minutes.  At 6:30, the planned time to get sunset photos, the sky was super dark.   We were so thankful that we changed plans up and were able to have beautiful skies for these.

Brittany and Grant, I was incredibly blessed to photograph your wedding.  I wish you a lifetime of love and laughter.  And as I tell every couple, I pray that you never forget how you felt on this day.  I hope that your love continues to grow deeper and even stronger than you can even imagine.  Love and blessings,  Pat

Check out Brittany and Grant’s engagement blog here.

These vendors were an important part of Brittany and Grant’s beautiful wedding:

Wedding Venue  |  The Barn at Node

DJ/Entertainment  |  Patty Bell

Cake Artist  |  Sweetheart Bakery

Florals  |  Sue Bowen w/ help from Donna Birge & Bride

Catering  | Bride’s Aunts & Uncle, Bride & Groom’s Parents

Bride’s Dress  |  David’s Bridal

Groom’s Attire |  Giorgio’s Menswear & Tuxedo