May 20, 2023 | Athens Country Club Photographer (& provider of photos): The always fabulous Tara Wilburn
Reception Band: Emerald Empire Band Florals: JL Designs Catering, Ceremony DJ, Bartending, & Cake: Athens Country Club Midnight Snack: Dippin’ Dots
Saturday, May 20th. Wedding Day! I got dressed, got my coffee, and headed off to that day’s venue – Athens Country Club. Sarah, the bride, texted me and requested my steamer at the salon where she and her girls were getting ready. I walked into Harmony Salon and the energy was AMAZING. Sarah was having a snack with her hair in rollers, while her girls laughed and talked. It was exactly what I wanted (and needed) to see – a bride fully present with her people on her Best Day Ever.
The rest of that day carried that same energy. Sarah & Ryan were so obviously in love, and so excited to be getting married. Every photo that I’ve seen from their wedding day oozes joy – and I absolutely LOVE that. They were living in the moment, they only cared about each other & their loved ones having a great time, and they did just that.
After the CUTEST first look, Sarah & Ryan had photos done while anxiously awaiting their ceremony. Believe me when I say that I strongly believe that whether or not to have a first look is up to the couple, but if the only thing keeping you from doing it is that you’re afraid the moment will be ruined, Sarah & Ryan are a prime example (among MANY other couples) that if you’re in the right mindset on your wedding day, the emotions will be there at every turn. The first look didn’t keep Ryan from getting emotional when he saw his bride. They had the sweetest ceremony with personally written vows and after a few other photos headed off to their private dinner to get some alone time and soak in the day.
The entrance to their reception was followed by a first dance played by the Emerald Empire Band. Sarah & Ryan sang to each other while they danced and definitely had me feeling misty! For a fun twist, they welcomed all of their guests to the dance floor towards the end of the song to share in their newlywed bliss.
The food was amazing and was provided by the country club. Stations were set up on all sides and there was a little something for everyone – carving stations, a pasta station, and a slider station. After dinner & cake cutting it was finally time to let loose on the dance floor. The couple provided glow sticks to their guests as the energy started to build, and their band didn’t miss a beat with their perfect setlist. And later on, guests were able to cool down midway with a treat – Dippin’ Dots!
For their last song, the couple requested Mr. Brightside (which is always a crowd favorite!) and got to live it up on stage with the band before being sent off with sparklers to their limo. It was the perfect ending to an amazing wedding day. I’m so blessed to have been able to help this couple bring their day all together. I wish them all the best in their journey together, and I just know their love story is going to be as sweet & fun as their wedding day was!
