They say that becoming friends with your partner first leads to an even stronger relationship. This is true for Kaitlyn and Jonathan, who met at the University of North Georgia and became best friends. In the summer of 2015, they spent more and more time together. Their friendship grew, but little did they know that this was just the beginning of their journey. But then, Jonathan developed a crush for his new best friend. As summer came to a close, they had spent time carving pumpkins together, shared their testimonies, and enjoying a day at Gold Rush in Dahlonega. That night, Jonathan asked Kaitlyn on a date. That October 25th date led them a little bit closer to their journey to forever! They shared a pizza under a gazebo and stayed out late as they walked around that little mountain town, discussing life, their dreams, and enjoying each other’s company. The night ended with a kiss on the forehead and butterflies in their stomachs! After 10 months of dating, Jonathan proposed at the gazebo, they very spot where two best friends fell in love!
Their wedding day at the Walter’s Barn in Lula, Georgia was nothing short of both friendship and love! Kaitlyn had a special acorn for Jonathan’s boutonniere, that she held onto since the very beginning of their relationship. He had given her the acorn since she was in Alpha Gamma Delta whose visual representation is a squirrel! I thought it was so sweet that Kaitlyn kept that sentimental item for so long and included it in their wedding. Those little details are just so special!
Kaitlyn and Jonathan did a foot washing ceremony in front of their closest family and friends, which was the first one I’ve ever photographed and it was SO incredibly sweet. Afterwards, they prayed on their knees together. My eyes and my camera were on them, but I let my eyes drift towards their family and there wasn’t a dry eye around, including myself!
I have so enjoyed getting to know these two and having a front row seat to their love story. Thank you for inviting me into your lives, Kaitlyn and Jonathan!
Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Murphy!!
HUGE THANK YOU to their wonderful team of vendors who made their day so beautiful!
Associate Photographer: Shelby Norris
Planning and Florist: Soirees Southern Events
Venue: The Walter’s Barn
Catering: Johnny’s Barbecue
Cake: Sugartopia
Hair and Makeup: Bombshell Salon
Videographer: Bentley Media
DJ: Backwoodz Boyz Entertaintment
Abby Byrd is a wedding and portrait photographer based out of Atlanta specializing in joyful film photography