Kaitlyn & Brady traveled all the way from Colorado to celebrate their wedding day here at Big Cedar’s Dogwood Canyon. We started out the day at a local Airbnb where the couple was getting ready. The guys were hanging out in the basement playing pool, while the ladies were relaxing & finishing hair & makeup upstairs! While there was joy, I can’t help but note the undercurrent of sadness in these moments. Kaitlyn’s mom was unable to participate in the wedding festivities due to health issues and my heart was aching for all of them. Even though we weren’t able to get photos I am so glad she was able to join us briefly during Kaitlyn’s first look with her dad – then sharing a private moment with her daughter before we left for Dogwood Canyon.
After hiding from one another all morning, Kaitlyn and Brady were extremely anxious to FINALLY see one another. Both of their faces were filled with happiness during their first look behind the Hope Wilderness Chapel. After sharing this special moment it was time to hop on the shuttle for portraits throughout the park. It was one of my favorite parts of the day – just because we got to spend some time really seeing how they are together as a couple before the busy events of the rest of the wedding day began. After portraits, their family and friends began to arrive at the Chapel for the ceremony. Even though nothing can beat the views outside – I love the romance of this dim & dusky rustic chapel. After exchanging vows and rings, Brady & Kaitlyn were pronounced husband and wife. I found my heart aching for Kaitlyn’s mom all over again during these special moments and vowing to myself to capture as much as possible for her to look back on.
After the ceremony, it was time for everyone to travel to the gorgeous reception on the Canyon Grill Patio. This is absolutely one of my favorite reception locations. Nothing beats the sun setting over the patio, to the hum of the idyllic Indian Cliff Falls in the background. Brady & Kaitlyn cut their cake with laughter before speeches and then shared a dance with one another. Thunder was occasionally rumbling in the distance as their parent dances began, but while the clouds came in heavy, the rain stayed away. Nothing was going to stop the party! The couple did a traditional bouquet and garter toss before continuing to celebrate the night away with drinks & dancing. And then after dancing the rest of the night away, it was time to say goodbye. Everyone cheered them away while waving their glow sticks in the air!
Kaitlyn & Brady, Thank You so much for choosing to share these moments & memories with us!
Lots of Love,
Jessica
Kaitlyn & Brady’s Dream Team
