Amanda and Patrick went to the same university, but their paths wouldn’t cross until mutual friends would bring them together during a dinner party on April 8th. Amanda and Patrick stayed up talking and getting to know one another. They talked about their favorite movies, their families and their hopes and dreams for the future.
Patrick lived in North Carolina and Amanda lived in Georgia. However, distance wouldn’t stop them. On April 18th, they had their first date and ten days after that, on April 28th, they were in a committed relationship. It only makes sense that their wedding date was 08/18/18!
When Patrick proposed, he decided to recreate their first date. They went to the Marietta Square in Georgia to walk around and enjoy some time together. They ended up at the field around Kennesaw Mountain. It was in this very spot where they shared their first kiss and it was the moment they both knew that they had found the one. So, years later, Patrick got down on one knee and asked Amanda to marry him!
Amanda and Patrick picked Morning Glory Farm in North Carolina to say, “I do” and begin their forever together. They loved the balance of the natural and elegant qualities this beautiful venue offers.
Upon arriving to the venue, there was so much to explore. Horses roamed the fields just outside the barn where Patrick got ready. Goats played in the distance. The breeze swept through and the willow tree delicately swayed back and forth. Covered pathways led to and from the ceremony and the reception space.
Amanda and Patrick already had a gorgeous setting, but their love, their personal vows, the support of their friends and family made the day all the more beautiful. Amanda found a very special way to honor the family members who are no longer with them. Patrick and Amanda each had small frames hanging from their bouquet and boutonniere which held beautiful portraits of those loved ones. This served as a reminder that they are always close in heart.
During their ceremony, I was able to capture a moment where Amanda and Patrick took a moment to gaze upon their guests. This was a part of the ceremony which was prompted by their Pastor, Steve. It was something I had mentioned to Amanda as she was wedding planning. She later told me that it was because of this advice that they added it into the ceremony script. And Pastor Steve loved it too! “You had a huge impact” she said.
Documenting and telling the story of someone’s wedding holds so many wonderful reasons as to why this job is amazing. My work will outlive me and my work becomes someone’s treasured memories. And to be able to serve my bride and groom’s in a way that directly impacts their day forever AND document that moment, just makes my heart so happy.
Also, it rained directly after couple portraits and directly after their sparkler exit. Someone was looking out for these two! Their day was truly amazing.
Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Bradey! Thank you for trusting us to capture your story!
Thank you to everyone who made their day extra special!
Second Shooter: Diana Bello (Thank you, Diana!)
Venue: Morning Glory Farm
Planner: Nia Thompson
Catering: Roots Catering
Cake: Delish Bakery
Flowers: Gregg Bradey
Hair: Rose Barlowe
Makeup: Grace Barlowe
DJ: Ernest from Agape DJ Entertainment
Bride’s Dress: A Formal Occasion
Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal
Bride’s Rings: Swarovski
Groom’s Ring: Great Grandfather (Papa Charles)
Abby Byrd is a wedding and portrait photographer based out of Atlanta specializing in joyful film photography