Mr. and Mrs. Sneed

Did someone say beach wedding? Sandy feet, windy hair, the waves crashing... what could be more romantic on your wedding day?

YES. I'LL BE THERE!

I know I say this a lot, but...

Creating relationships with my clients is one of the best parts about this business. It also creates more comfortability and creativity between us all. When Hannah and Sam came to me several months ago about their upcoming wedding at Atlantic Beach, we clicked almost instantly. I felt so sure that they were 1000 percent meant to be together, and also that I was so meant to photograph this journey in their lives!

We met in Raleigh for their engagement portraits at the WRAL Azalea Gardens, and had the best time capturing their love. I also got to meet their sweet Gigi (our pups are totally like children!) and it was a blast. They are complete naturals around the camera. I also got to head back to the Raleigh area for Hannah's bridal portraits, which totally turned out just as stunning! How many times can your photographer freak out over your photos?! Answer: unknown because it just keeps happening!

Fast forward to the big day!

We all met at the Air BNB in Morehead City, and after finishing up the details shots, Hannah was ready and of course absolutely stunning!! We had so much fun starting out the day with a few traditional shots before hopping on the trolley to go pick up Sam and the groomsmen! Hannah and Sam had their intimate first look at Fort Macon, just under one of the entryway tunnels. After their precious moment we captured bride and groom portraits - which I am completely in love with - before hopping back to the trolley to go towards the ceremony beach access.

Side note... there's a reason why I always separate bride and groom portraits, and then husband and wife portraits on my wedding day timelines. This only applies to the couples who choose to do a first look... but for me there is a noticeable difference between bride + groom pictures and husband + wife pictures. You can see the anticipation and excitement in the eyes and faces of a bride and groom. They can't wait to say I do in such a short time. Then, a husband and wife look so content. The nerves have passed, you're calm yet joyful, and so happy with your decision. The rest of your lives begins now.

A wedding in the sand!

The ceremony was so peaceful, quiet, yet full of love and excitement. The entire day was just magical. The wind was just enough, and the light was amazing seeing as it was shortly before sunset. It was an honor to see Hannah and Sam finally say I do!

Following family and wedding party portraits, we literally had the greatest husband and wife portrait session EVER. The golden hour portraits of my dreams! After being a little more posed at the fort, we were able to do more candid and natural prompting on the beach. Which is so fitting for the location too! Hannah and Sam look SO happy, relaxed, and in love. We even got them into the ocean (at least a little bit! That's a win!) The sunset sky was made for these two, and I'm not joking.

Following the most stunning portraits, we all traveled to Arendell Room Bar (also in Morehead City) for the reception!! The entire atmosphere was so fitting for Hannah and Sam, and I truly enjoyed watching them have the time of their lives all night long. Drinks, dancing, cake cutting, a speech, all of their friends and family in one place, and a limo ride to end the night... all wrapped up with a Mr. and Mrs. Sneed bow!

And don't even get me started on Hannah's dress change. It was SO fun! Attention to detail is one thing that this gal does not lack. She has an eye for style and design, and luckily her sweet hubby Sam supports her in anything she wants to do! They are literally the perfect match.

There is so much more I could say, but then we'd be here all day ;)

But, it has been the most amazing experience working with Hannah, Sam, and their families. They are wonderful people! I have been welcomed into their lives just like a close friend and there's absolutely no greater feeling. To know that who I am and what I do is appreciated and loved is a feeling I truly cherish! I can't wait to work with Hannah and Sam in the future for the rest of life's milestones that come their way. So, THANKFULLY, it's not a goodbye; it's a see you soon!