Ashley + Andrew: May 15, 2022

Ashley + Andrew had a beautiful wedding day at The Sonnet House in Leeds and we were so lucky to be there to capture it! This was a new venue for me but I’m crossing my fingers I’ll be back soon. Ashley chose the perfect backdrop for their elegant wedding, a charming early 20th century farmhouse with a stunning garden ceremony area. I loved all the timeless details, from the cream colored bouquets with lots of greenery to Ashley’s lace edged cathedral length veil. It was an honor to capture a day with so many sweet moments, so read on for a little of the magic from Ashley + Andrew’s big day!

Ashley’s gift to Andrew was a family Bible inscribed with their name and wedding date. It was such a beautiful, thoughtful gift and I knew I had to incorporate it into some detail shots including Ashley’s veil and their wedding rings.

Ashley was blessed with so many wonderful ladies to help her get ready for her big day. Her mom, her new mother-in-law, and her five bridesmaids all had a hand in making sure she looked perfect before her first look with Andrew.

We set up Ashley and Andrew’s first look on the front porch of the farmhouse and it was the best location for a private moment for the two of them. I loved their sweet reaction to seeing each other for the first time– they couldn’t stop gushing about how great the other looked.

If you’ve been around a while, you know I LOVE a veil shot! When I saw Ashley’s cathedral length veil, I knew we were going to make some magic with it. There’s just something about the drama of a veil flowing in the wind (or being tossed– whatever it takes!) that elevates an image to another level for me.

How perfect is this wedding party?! Timeless suits and elegant rose colored bridesmaids dresses complemented each other so nicely. We had fun exploring a few different spots at the venue grabbing shots of the girls and guys together.

Absolutely obsessed with the secret garden vibes of this ceremony space! It’s dramatic, yet understated, and didn’t need a ton of decor to be turned into a beautiful place for a wedding. Ashley + Andrew also had Cahaba River Strings provide the music for their ceremony, which only added to the elegant feel.

While guests were seated in the courtyard for the reception, the cakes and buffet were inside the house, which provided a great opportunity for guests to take in the architecture of the home (as well as the air conditioning.)

In addition to the first dance and parent dances, Ashley’s dad surprised her mom with a special dance for just the two of them. It was such a sweet moment to see the relationship that brought Ashley to this moment recognized on her wedding day.

Despite it being cloudy, we made the most of our “sunset” portrait time and captured some beautiful shots of Ashley + Andrew on the grounds of the house. My favorites from the whole day are the images of Ashley + Andrew on the corner of the porch!

Guests were asked to line up outside while Ashley + Andrew had a private last dance with just the two of them. It was absolutely the perfect way to end a day so full of love and joy. I almost felt like I was intruding, seeing how completely wrapped up in each other the two of them were during this dance, but I’m so glad we got to be a part of it. Ashley + Andrew, thank you for entrusting us with your big day. Congratulations, Mr. + Mrs. Baldwin!