Jonathan & Lauren’s wedding was certainly one for the books. Tuesday afternoon ceremony, booked the day before, global pandemic on our doorstep, stay-at-home order announced during the ceremony, and 100% rain in the forecast. .

We spoke to Lauren on the phone the day before to run through all of the details. It wasn’t what she had planned whatsoever, except for the ceremony location. What was supposed to be a packed out church ended up being only the couple’s immediate family. Their date was supposed to be in mid-April with a grand reception planned nearby their church ceremony, but was cancelled due to the current Covid-19 crisis. You could say that a lot seemed to be stacking up against Lauren’s big day.

HOWEVER...Lauren & Jonathan were ready to get married and they just couldn’t wait. Lauren was so amazingly positive about the situation and didn’t let it steal her joy or excitement to marry her soulmate one bit. There was one super apparent theme coursing through the day and that was…family. Both Jonathan & Lauren were surrounded by their immediate families, and they were so extremely supportive and encouraging for the couple. You could just tell they wanted the day to be as perfect as possible for the two.

Not only was Lauren literally surrounded by her family, she was also wearing several family heirlooms…a pearl necklace given to her by her late maternal grandmother, a fur stole that belonged to her paternal grandmother, the beautiful white lace tablecloth we used for her ring and stationery shots belongs to Jonathan’s mother, and her veil was first worn by her sister.

During the ceremony, the pastor gave family a chance to come up and share some words for the couple. Tears were shed, love was expressed, and laughter was aplenty. The grooms dad went on to share about how Lauren’s Olympic gold medal (a HUGE deal) couldn’t even compare with her beauty…inside and out. And he was right. Lauren looked amazingly beautiful, and had such a sweet spirit about her.

It poured rain during the whole ceremony, but when we looked outside afterwards...no rain! We were able to capture all of their family formal portraits outside in front of the beautiful Myers Park Methodist church. Cars were driving by honking and it almost seem to bring a sense of hope that life will go on once this crisis passes. We even set up a faux “exit” with bubble guns. Lauren was determined to use them and why not?! Surrounded by bubbles and her cheering family...it was beautiful and so much fun.

We ended our time with some couples portraits, and let me say, the light was to DIE for. Brides, do not fret about a lil rain or overcast skies on your wedding day. The rain seems to deepen the colors of everything and the clouds diffuse the softest, most beautiful light. The couple and their families were so thankful and gracious throughout the entirety of the day, which made our job of capturing the moments for them so much easier.

We’re proud to share with you…Jonathan & Lauren’s big day at Myers Park United Methodist Church.