Shelley and Jason Say I Do

Terri of Terri Lynn Photography asked me if I could join her for a wedding at Aldridge Gardens on May 1, 2011 of course I said yes. I had been to Aldridge Gardens, but not for wedding so I was excited. It is also always nice to work with Terri.

We arrived at Aldridge Gardens a few minutes early so that we could acclimate ourselves with the area and find out where everything would be taking place. This is always a plus for photographers, at least for me, as I like to know where everyone is going to be and when.

Jason, the groom was there first with his family, not long after was Shelley with her family. We started with the groom who was just ready to be married and call it a day. He was looking forward to the wedding, but was very excited about being married. We got shots of him with his family, alone, the flower girl and Ring bearer, etc.

After Jason was done with his pictures it was time to let them see watch other. Terri walked Jason down to a bridge and I went and got Shelley. They were both pretty anxious. As we were walking down all Shelley could see was Jason's back and all Jason knew is we where headed there. Then we turned Jason around and everything about both of them started to radiate. There was joy, and excitement in their eyes.

Then we got shots of Shelley and all of her family, attendants, etc. Then it was time to do pictures of them together. Getting the formal poses out of the way really relaxes the whole atmosphere of a wedding. The bride and groom always seem more together and there is nothing taken away from the ceremony. I am good with doing these however the bride prefers though!

As the time for the wedding drew closer we wrapped up formal shots and gt Shelley inside and Jason in place. The ceremony was very nice with their vows done under an Ivy arbour. Very nice and quite gorgeous for photographs.

The reception was very nice as well, with a few dances...one the bride and groom and the other the bride and her dad. Then it was time for the bride and groom to say their hellos and they tried to get a quick bite. Cake cutting, garter and bouquet tossing, and the exit through bubbles. It was a great wedding and one that I was proud to photograph. Thanks Terri for thinking of me.

If you have a special occasion on your calendar call and I will put you on my calendar today! Memories are cherished forever in our hearts, but can be shared with the world through your stories and photographs! Call or e-mail me anytime monicathach@gmail.com or (205) 229-1865

Q and U are United

In my journey I have been asked to do a lot. I love all aspects of photography. Children are always a lot of fun as they bring in a life that is unlike any other. There innocence and joy radiate from them and it makes it impossible not to smile and just have fun. Weddings also bring about such a joyous occasion. When you can combine the two what you have is a good time with so many smiles to share.

Hilldale Christian Schools 4K classes join Q and U together in marriage every year and this year I was asked to photograph the event. I would be lying if I said I did not enjoy every minute of it. First, I had a son who was the bell ringer in the wedding and his excitement leading up to the big day was contagious.

The day of the wedding was hectic but so much fun. With kids dressed up and so excited calmness was nowhere to be seen. Here is the other thing about kids, they are not nervous about anything.

The boys were definitely my favorite to get pictures of as they were getting ready. There are only 5 boys in two classes so we were able to get creative and relax and have fun.

The girls were fun but with more of them and more to do to get them ready...makeup and hair....it was a little more chaotic and there was not near the time when they were all done.

The ceremony went off without a hitch. The lighting at Hilldale leaves a lot to be desired for photography, but it did not matter. The reception afterwards was also a blast as all of the kids were able to show off their fancy clothes to friends and family. They ate good food (not necessarily good for you, but definitely yummy) and they had a great time.

To close the event Q and U were carried out in their wagon and waiting on their car to take them to the airport so that they could go to Quebec for their Honeymoon.

This was truly a lot of fun and I am very thankful that I was asked to be a part of it.