What emotions were apparent on the wedding day?
Pure joy! This wedding was extra-special to me because Mallory, when she lived in Pensacola, worked as a photographer for AKP! Side-by-side, we photographed many beautiful weddings, and I loved watching this beautiful soul grow into a such a capable, creative, and joyful woman. Now she is a wedding photographer in her own right, shooting destination weddings all over the world, and it was my honor that she asked me to travel to the mountains to document her wedding to Richie.
What was special about the first time the bride and groom saw each other?
Richie and Mallory chose to do a first look, and it was absolute magic. In the mid-afternoon, the sun was shining over the gorgeous slope, while tall grasses waved in the wind (seriously, I can’t make this up). The two of them laughed, and hugged, and strolled through the fields, and laughed some more – and it was a completely organic and unposed photo opportunity that resulted in photos that are genuine and absolutely stunning.
What made the wedding venue special?
Let’s be honest – I’m a Florida girl and live at sea level, so ANYTHING even remotely mountainous is a glorious treat. However, I was blown away by The Ridge. This incredible venue is nestled in the mountains just outside of Asheville, North Carolina. It is thoughtfully designed with an intimate mountain top ceremony spot called “The Knoll,” as well as a large home for getting ready and a gorgeous, glass-walled reception venue that truly blends the outdoors and indoors into one cohesive space. The guests were treated to a mountain sunset as they danced under market lights, sipped home-brewed local beer, and played yard games. It was breathtaking from every single direction.
