I was so excited to photograph Kaitlyn & Bryan's beautiful destination wedding here in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains at the gorgeous "A Kings Lodge" property in Wears Valley.  The day began with cloudy and rainy skies but by the time I was to arrive, the skies had cleared to a beautiful hue of blue.  

Kaitlyn had told me about her plans for a country theme with a lot of lavender & burlap decorations and I'm a sucker for all things lavender.  When I arrived the air smelled of the lavender that was present in all of the decorations and the backyard of the lodge was decorated beautifully for the festivities. Fun lawn games such as corn hole, ring toss, yard yahtzee and horseshoes were set up for guests to have a great time surrounded by the Smoky Mountains in the distance.  

Kaitlyn was absolutely stunning in her very simple, yet sophisticated white toole gown with a train that separated into 2 pieces down the middle.  So unique, so beautiful.  Her maids were dressed in mint and lavender knee length dresses carrying glass containers with lavender buds and a tea light candle.   Bryan and his groomsmen were dressed ever so dapper in vintage khaki pants, suspenders and newsboy hats.  

Both Kaitlyn and Bryan's family and friends were obviously ready to celebrate the love these two share!  The couple exchanged hand written vows, with Kaitlyn even vowing to "Cheer for the Cubs, no matter what"...this Cubs fan photographer knew immediately I was "among friends".  Instead of a traditional wedding ring ceremony, they opted for a sand ceremony and have chosen to get tattooed rings on their fingers that will last forever and can never get lost.  

I had a great time with the families, bridal party and the newly married couple taking formal portraits before the family gathered to say grace and eat a meal catered by "Mama's Farmhouse".  Once the meal was finished, the father of the bride, the maid of honor and the best man made beautiful, heartfelt toasts to the couple wishing them many years of  love and happiness and sharing fun memories.   My time with this beautiful newly joined family ended with the First Dance, Father / Daughter Dance and Mother / Son dance where sweet emotions were felt all around.  Thank you SO MUCH, for inviting Rich Blessings Photography to be a part of your very special, very beautiful wedding day! I pray many many blessings over your new union as man and wife.   

#depoisterduo