Stirling City Wedding Photographer: Barden Wedding

Wedding

Nov 19

This wedding brings me so much joy. Rachel has been a part of my life for many years, she has taken me under her wing many times. I am so happy to see that she has found someone who matches her loving soul. Mike, I know you will keep her heart safe.

The morning of the wedding was beautiful, it was crisp and not a cloud in the sky. Jena and I started our day by jamming out to Queen while driving to Stirling city. When we pulled into Merlo park we were greeted by the groom and groomsmen who were exchanging laughs in the parking lot. We made our way to the bridal room where we found the ladies sipping on cider mimosas getting ready for the day.

Rachel was beaming. She had her best friends and mom with her before she said I do to the man of her dreams. Rachel had a lovely bridal bouquet made by Fullers flowers which were artfully arranged with roses, sunflowers, and eucalyptus. This floral arrangement complimented Rachel’s color scheme with the Bridesmaid’s red dresses and the junior bridesmaid and flower girls in adorable yellow sundresses. Rachel’s dress was a beautiful high low soft lace gown with off-the-shoulder sleeves. The high low cut of her dress was a great way to show off her cowgirl boots.

Rachel was nothing short of stunning on her wedding day.

Jena captured great shots of the men getting ready and special moments of the groom’s mother pining on his boutonniere before the ceremony. The men dressed in classic and comfortable sporting boots, jeans, and a crisp white button-up. Both Rachel and Mike were excited but relaxed, they were ready to start their forever. Soon the guest started to arrive and the nerves excitement started to build.

The ceremony was held at the upper pond with a view of the pond and waterfall behind their custom arch. The bridal party and bride walked down the aisel to a live acoustic version of Beautiful Crazy. The ceremony was short but filled with love. Rachel and Mike’s first kiss was one for the books. Mike then lifted his bride and carried her away.

Mike and Rachel’s reception was overflowing with a good time. They had a Photobooth hosted by C&C Photo booth rentals which was extremely popular and fun. Their guest book was a natural plank of wood with a heart with M&R wood burned into it. Their wedding favors were Sunflower packets to share the love and to let the love grow. Their centerpieces were mason jars with twinkle lights and photos of the couple and their adventures. To honor Rachels late father there were yellow roses, he was dearly missed but remembered and with us throughout the day.

Several people gave toasts they all gave wonderful sentiments with great thought and humor. There was even a song made for them called Lighthouse by Songlorious presented to them by a longtime friend. After toasts, the couple made it to the dance floor to enjoy their first dance.

They danced to Made for you by Jake Owens. They danced without notice of all the people around them. Taking in every second of this song to be alone. Rachel was joined on the dance floor by her son Nick, They danced to Boy by Lee Brice. Where I believe everyone watching wept a little bit. Mike and Rachel’s mom shared a dance before opening up the dance floor to their guests. I was so impressed by all the couples that joined them. I had a lot of fun capturing this moment. It was amazing to see a dance floor fill so quickly, everyone just enjoyed their partner at this moment and you could truly feel the love that surrounded this couple on their wedding day. Following this dance, the couple then cut their wedding cake and had an epic battle of cake in the face. I’m not sure which one won. Rachel’s namesake, Rachel serenaded them and the rest of the party with the song Keeping Score by Dan and Shay. (IT WAS BEAUTIFUL!) The night led into the traditional bouquet and garter toss and concluded with more fun on the dance floor.

Jena and I had such an amazing time. This was the perfect wedding to break us back into weddings. We thank you so much for trusting us to capture such amazing and cherished moments.

Cheers to many years!