So let me tell you a little bit about this couple... I don't know that I've ever seen anyone adore each other quite the way these two do. When she speaks of her Joey, she never has a negative thing to say. She gets a sweet little smile on her face and lets out a big sigh of relief that he is all hers for the rest of their lives. She is confident in the love they have for each other, and she walks with a glow that I've never seen in a bride before. And Joey, he gazes at Sarah in a way that says, "I'll take care of you. Every moment of my life for as long as I live. Anything you desire, it's yours. I'll give you all the love I contain. Though even then you deserve more, my dear."
They met in an online Star Wars video game (hence the underlying theme throughout their wedding). Can you believe that?! I'll be honest with you, I don't believe in fate. But what I do believe is that God has a plan and a purpose for you. He will help guide your life in the way it should go, and I believe their introduction was no miracle but a gift from Heaven itself.
I am fortunate to have Sarah's amazing cousin Christina Feely as one of my most cherished friends. She's a fellow photographer as well (anyone need a newborn photographed?). She was going to be the maid of honor though, so when Sarah was looking for someone to capture the day Christina insisted I do it, and I'm so thankful she did! They came down to Sarasota for their engagement photos at Ringling Museum, then I traveled to Atlanta for their wedding! Ahhh the crisp cold November breeze and a couple nights in a hotel was just what I needed and I enjoyed every minute of it!
The day went so well. We were a little worried about the sunlight because they just so happened to schedule the wedding the day after the time change, and it created a very tight timeline for photos. As soon as the ceremony was over we high-tailed it outside for family photos before the sun set. Then we jumped inside for bridal party photos, and then the surprise guests showed up! Joey and Sarah surprised all their guests with Star Wars characters! When the bride and groom got ready to enter the ballroom for the reception, they were escorted by the 501st Legion and everyone's jaw dropped, it was so much fun. The looks on their faces were priceless! On top of that surprise, they'd also taken dance lessons and had the most adorable first dance planned for everyone's entertainment! It was flawless and ever so romantic.
To the Solanas, I am so very grateful for your hospitality and for treating me as an honored guest during your wedding weekend. I was included in all the festivities and I felt like I was able to enjoy it just as much as the rest. I REALLY wish you both lived closer. I have a feeling you'd become some of my very best friends. So maybe I'll just have to visit Georgia every year for anniversary photos ;) <3
Take a look at some of the highlights throughout the day!
MEET THE AMAZING VENDORS WHO MADE THIS DAY SO DANG PERFECT
Venue / Catering: Ashton Gardens
Dress: Mori Lee @ Anya Bridal
Hair & Make UP: Fathia & Kisha w/ Brushworx Hair & Make UP
Florist: On Occasions of Atlanta
Cake: Carlton's Cakes
Officiant: Pastor Tony McCollum
DJ: Complete Music/Video/Photo
Videographer: Complete Music/Video/Photo
Ceremony Music: OC String Ensemble
Cocktail Hour Music: The ZCLive Experience
Photobooth: Complete Music/Video/Photo
**Special Star Wars Guests: GA 501st Legion
Invites: Designed with Amore
Tuxes: Savvi Formal Wear
Dance Lessons: International Dance Studios
Sparklers: I Love Sparklers
Limo Service: Atlantic Limo's of GA
Bridesmaid Bracelets: KEEP Collective
Last but not least, a special thank you to my wonderful second shooter Ramona! Couldn't have done it without you and it was so wonderful to meet you!