A Colorful Summer Wedding in Chattanooga

Amy and Chris’ colorful summer wedding in Chattanooga in July was such a joyous celebration! They were surrounded by close family and friends for their ceremony and reception at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Hixson, Tennessee. Everyone helped make their special day become a reality by helping with planning, flowers, and decorations. Amy is multi-talented as a sewer and graphic designer, as she made her own dress as well as the invitations! Their friends helped with the reception details and they bought fresh flowers to make all of the boutonnieres and bouquets. We were a little worried about the weather, but day turned out gorgeous, and Amy and Chris were so happy to become husband and wife!

Chattanooga Wedding in July

Amy got ready at home and did her own hair and makeup before the ceremony. After everyone arrived at the church, I shot the bridal details and her handmade wedding dress. My second shooter Caitlin took photos of the groom’s details and the groomsmen. One of my favorite areas at the church was one of the large classrooms. We used this room to capture some getting ready shots of both Amy and Chris. I also took the opportunity to shoot some bride and groom portraits in this room before the first look!

For Amy and Chris’ first look, we found a quiet spot just down the hill close to the outdoor reception. This was such a sweet moment! You could tell how excited Chris was to see Amy, and Amy was so happy to show off her new wedding dress. We stayed in this spot to capture bride and groom portraits and pictures with the full bridal party. Their ceremony took place outside just over the small bridge.

There was one moment during the ceremony where Chris was starting to sweat on his forehead from the summer heat, and Amy lovingly wiped it away for him. I’m not gonna lie – I shed some tears watching this. After the pastor declared them husband and wife, the weddings guests used their hand made ribbon wands and joyfully waved them in the air as Amy and Chris started walking down the aisle. They used this moment to a ceremonial exit versus a reception exit. As they got closer to the last row of chairs, Chris scooped up Amy and carried her the rest of the way back down the aisle! It was so adorable!

While the guests headed to cocktail hour, Amy changed into a different top and a shorter skirt for her reception. We took photos behind the ceremony site and then headed up to the front of the church for more couples portraits. Amy and Chris’ friends announced their arrival into the outdoor reception area, complete with long tables on all sides and a dance floor in the middle. Amy and Chris sat at their sweetheart table while the best man and maid of honor gave toasts. Afterwards, they walked onto the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife. Then they asked all of the guests to join them before the song ended. Amy and Chris had such a fun time cutting their cake, and their wedding guests were given lots of good desserts as well! Amy and Chris kept the reception going by dancing with all of their family and friends!

Congratulations Amy and Chris! I loved capturing your gorgeous wedding! If you are getting married next year, visit my contact page for more information as I’m already booking dates!

Vendors:

Ceremony and Reception Venue: Cross of Christ Lutheran Church

Wedding Planner: Jamie Booth

Cake: Blue Bird Crumbs

Catering: Dos Bros

Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie