Blake & Taylor finally tied the knot on May 13 at Ardmore Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, NC, with the reception to follow at the Village Inn in Clemmons. I’ve been looking forward to this wedding since I met these two last summer for their engagement session. It wasn’t until after the engagement session that they asked if I would photograph their wedding, and my heart exploded as I was given a chance to photograph them on their wedding day! Time seemed to fly by as they planned and prepared for that May weekend where their married lives would begin. And then suddenly, the day was here.

During this year, I’ve gotten the chance to get to know these two better and been able to see their love shining bright. It was even more clear at the rehearsal dinner that their love was not only to and from each other, but from those all around them. Throughout their many years together, they’d already established such great relationships with each other’s families and have settled into the comforts of familiarity. To me it was so evident through it all that they are best friends, their “person”, their lobster (FRIENDs reference because Taylor is as big of a fan as I am!). Together they love and support each other in a way that made it clear that their love was forever.

Although rain was predicted for the day, the sun was shining bright on that Saturday and it seemed as if the Lord was smiling down on them. The girls got ready in the beautiful bridal suite at Ardmore Baptist while the boys entertained themselves on the other side of the building. Before we knew it, it was time to get Taylor into her dress. Surrounded by her mom, sisters, and best friends, she stepped into the gown in which she would marry her best friend. Tears filled the eyes of those around her as the realness of the moment began to set in. One of the most emotional moments of the day was when Troy, Taylor’s father, saw his sweet baby girl in her wedding dress for the first time. The love in his eyes was so powerful as tears flowed down his face and he embraced his daughter with pride. The whole room could barely keep it together at that point! Guests filled the pews as the ceremony time inched closer, and all of a sudden Blake was standing at the alter waiting for his girl, the one he could soon call his wife. When Taylor appeared in at the doors of the sanctuary, she was glowing with joy and Blake’s heart was so full. Together, in front of those they loved dearly, they vowed themselves to each other and to Christ for the rest of their days. Sweetly they lit a unity candle from the flames of candles that both of their parents lit, as they have been shining examples of marriage and companionship throughout the years.

Following the portraits outside of the church, it was time for the party to begin at the Village Inn in Clemmons. After their beautifully choreographed first dance, sweet toasts were shared by those who love them dearly, and the guests were able to get a glimpse into their love. Once the music was turned up and the plates wiped clean, they danced and laughed the night away as they soaked up the love of those around them in celebration.

 

What an honor it was to not only witness the sweet love of these two, but to capture the day for their children to admire one day. I wish Taylor & Blake the very best as they embark on this new adventure of marriage. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to immortalize your love forever.

Love,