Around 4 p.m., we headed back to the Mongeau House. Matt and I got showered and dressed. Having a friend who can do your hair and makeup? Absolutely amazing. Morgan, I thank you immensely. I literally just sat there while she came up with a look on the fly – Matt handed us 2 glasses of wine, and Morgs blasted the tunes as she worked. Dream.
Our photographer, Joanna, pulled up to the house – and it was pouring.
She waited out the worst of it, then came inside to meet with us.
She showed up with a full game plan and zero hesitation about adventuring out into the rain to get some incredible, moody shots by the lake. She had us darting in and out between showers so we didn’t get completely drenched – but honestly, I would’ve stood in a downpour for her. The photos were that cool.
I even had an extra dress ready to go, just in case. Matt was such a good sport too – kicking off our shoes and walking around barefoot, carrying an umbrella.
Highly recommend Joanna! I actually found her by searching location-tagged photos on Instagram – she’s Virginia-based, and I instantly loved her style. I sent her a DM, and the rest was history. She’s incredibly kind, down-to-earth, reasonably priced, and made us feel completely at ease. We’re absolutely in love with the photos she captured!
The entire album coming soon.
Joanna Hartsook Photography Facebook
Joanna Hartsook Photography Instagram
Joanna captured shots all around the property. We ditched the original boat photo idea because of the rain and instead drove over to the Culp House to finish up photos and gather everyone on the boathouse for the ceremony. We appreciate everyone making the trek down there in the rain, as we loved being able to keep the outdoor steamy vibe going. It also cleared off again just in time for group photos.
Matt and I wrote and read our own vows.
We exchanged rings. Than a kiss.
Matt’s dad shared some incredibly endearing words, and his mom read a beautiful poem she had written for the occasion.
Morgan read a collective speech from our friends, sharing their love and reflections.
All the feels. All the love.
After that, it was go-time for group photos with Joanna before she wrapped up.
After their photos, my best friend Rachel and her husband Kenny did us a huge favor by going ahead to meet the evening caterer and make sure everything was ready for dinner.
We ordered from Butch’s BBQ and had a spread of pulled pork, BBQ chicken pieces, baked beans, mac and cheese, coleslaw, buns, and sauce. It was exactly what we needed. Highly rec Butch (Charles) Lesser. We spoke on the phone and emailed back and forth. He made dinner this evening so smooth, so we could spend moments with family and each other.
The rest of the night was filled with drinks, ping-pong, shuffleboard, good tunes, cousin-led fitness challenges, and a few hilarious rounds of Heads Up on the boathouse.
I think I went to bed around 2a. Loved every minute of it.
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