Makita + Bailey: July 10, 2021

As a photographer in a small town, I often shoot at the same venues over and over. And while I have some old favorites, it’s always fun to explore new places with new opportunities for amazing photos. That’s why I was so excited when Makita told me that she and Bailey would be getting married at Burns Bluff, a new venue in our area that I have been drooling over since they opened last year! As soon as we arrived for the big day, we knew Makita and Bailey had picked the right place. The venue was almost as stunning as the bride, in an amazing off the shoulder lace gown and lace-trimmed veil. Makita’s bridesmaids were the ultimate hype crew and showered her with all the love she deserved on her big day. I think their faces from their first look say it all!

Because Makita and Bailey opted to not do a first look, we got to spend some extra time with the guys and girls separately. And while I can tell you from experience that herding groomsmen and getting their attention can be one of the toughest parts of a wedding day, these guys actually made my job so easy! They were ready ahead of schedule, listened to instructions and didn’t complain (too much) about the heat. They were having a great time and all I had to do was pick up the camera and capture it.

I’ve already mentioned how gorgeous Makita’s dress was, but I think we really captured some of its beautiful details in her bridal portraits. My favorites are (unsurprisingly) the ones that showcase that amazing veil! The lavender and sage bouquets were the perfect compliment to Makita’s dress, as well as the girls’ simple, elegant bridesmaids’ dresses.

From the “charn” (church/barn) to the lodge, to the cabins, Burns Bluff really does have it all. But of course the showstopper is that bluff view. Makita and Bailey were married right on the bluff under the most vibrant blue sky. As rain clouds rolled in, they laughed, they cried, and they became husband and wife. After a brief summer shower that came down with impeccable timing, we were able to finish up our portraits and explore our beautiful location a little more.

Makita specifically requested the “epic bluff shot” and with the fog still rolling in after the rain, I think we checked that one off the list! Makita and Bailey were troopers as we walked through the squishy, moss covered forest floor and dodged raindrops from soaked tree branches. But I’ll go ahead and say I think it was totally worth it for the great shots we got! Before heading in to greet their guests, we were also able to shoot inside the lodge, in front of the beautiful charn doors that lead into the reception area and even in the top of the charn with an amazing stained glass window.

Obviously, I’ve been to a lot of weddings, and I’m not really a crier, but Bailey and his mom’s dance together teared me up, along with everyone else in the room! They danced to “You Are My Sunshine,” a song Tammy has sang to Bailey since he was a baby, and I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room! I’m so glad we were able to capture so many special moments during Bailey and Makita’s wedding day. They (and their whole wedding party) were such a fun, easy to work with group and made our day run so smoothly. We are so happy for the new Mr. + Mrs. Jones and want to send them a big congratulations!