Michigan, Georgia, Miami and Nashville. Quite the road trip, right? All of these places joined together for one very special reason: Hailey and Greg’s wedding day. Hailey (from Georgia) and Greg (from Michigan) live in Miami where they minister to students at a local church. Cactus Creek Wedding Venue in Dickson, Tennessee became their meeting place to say, “I do.”

While Greg pastors, Hailey teaches school, coaches softball, and does much more that teachers never even get recognized for! Both of them spend their lives serving and giving. They aren’t bitter or angry about what they do, but instead are full of gratitude, patience, and thoughtfulness. Throughout their wedding day, I sensed a strong spirit of peace and gratitude not only from Hailey and Greg but from their guests as well. As you look through their images, you will see the abundant joy all over the place!

Their wedding was decorated with navy, burgundy, and blush with accents of gold accenting tables. This color combination was a perfect mix of rich and soft colors that paired well for an early spring wedding. 

Cactus Creek Farm hosted Hailey and Greg and was the perfect environment for the Hailey who loves horses. How many times have you seen a horse in a bridal suite?! I cannot think of one! What a unique and beautiful way to celebrate a memorable day, Cactus Creek Wedding Venue!

These royal-looking robes were handmade by Hailey’s aunt. I was incredibly impressed!! Maybe because my sewing machine is still sitting in an unopened box….either way, way to go Hailey’s aunt!

If a bride and groom forgo a first look, I love replacing it with a father-daughter first look. Hailey’s dad was so patient as he waited to see his little girl. I heard him exclaim, “Oh!’ as he turned around, grinning from ear to ear. This moment, and throughout the night, he kept this smirk on his face just watching Hailey celebrate a wonderful moment in her life. Their love is precious!

Let’s pause to appreciate these beautiful women below. My favorite thing was watching them laugh together. Although not all related by blood, these girls were just like sisters. Each bridesmaid was on-call, ready and willing to serve Hailey how ever she needed. Errands, dress pins, snacks–you name it. They were true sisters in every sense of the word. Greg and his guys were a hoot to spend time with. All of them were easy-going, ready to make a joke but also ready to do what needed to be done. You can definitely sense both of these qualities below. The model face and then playing on a swing. I was seriously cracking up as I watched these groomsmen push Greg. Don’t ever be too busy on your wedding day to not have fun! These men knew just how to do that.

It was also a surprise to see my friend Cody in the wedding party! Cody and I went to college together, and he was one of my husband’s groomsmen in our wedding. I love watching how life unfolds and paths continue to cross.

Right before the ceremony began, I looked over to see Greg, his groomsmen, and Pastor Tommy gathering to pray. These men cared for Greg and you could truly sense that they were joyful to see their friend so happy.

A personal favorite moment was when the sweet little flower girl came down the aisle. She decided not to throw the petals down, but instead gave me two when she walked past me. Haha! I felt so honored. That was definitely a first and I’m happy to have made friends with a sweet little lady. Hailey came down her wedding aisle in a way I’ve never seen. Her dress elegantly cascading down, veil blowing in the wind, as she rode horseback to the ceremony. The mix of Greg’s emotions was beautiful to watch. You could see joy for watching his bride do something so special. Tears soon followed as he realized his love for her. Smiles and laughter broke out as Hailey got near. This type of genuine emotion lasted throughout Hailey and Greg’s ceremony, and it was truly some of the most authentic representations of love I have witnessed. Hailey and Greg wrote their vows, surprising each other with what was said. Hailey actually had pages worth! Thankfully, each bridesmaid helped her out. Everyone got a good chuckle watching her reach for a new page just as they thought she was finished. 

Before the final pronouncement, Greg and Hailey bowed down to wash one another’s feet. If you are unfamiliar with this practice, it is taken from John 13 where Jesus washed his disciples feet. As an act humble service, Jesus took the position of a slave to honor those around him. In the same way, Hailey and Greg (even in all of their beautiful clothing) stooped down to show the other that they were there to serve them. I love this picture of loving service so much, I actually did it in my wedding too. I felt a lump in my throat watching Hailey, especially, in her beautiful wedding gown, get on the dirty ground to show her husband how much she loves him. What a beautiful symbol!

So what do you think? Does this group look like they ever have any fun?? Nah…

Some close friends to the owners of Cactus Creek own a gorgeous classic truck. Hailey loves old trucks so this was a perfect fit for a southern wedding. Greg’s navy suit with Hailey’s white gown look so classic next to this cool truck. I couldn’t help but imagine my three year old son having a field day with this thing. There would have been way more tiny hand prints all around, that’s for sure.  One of the highlights from Greg and Hailey’s reception were the sweet speeches given by the maid of honor and the best man. Both showcased how God aligned Greg and Hailey’s paths to cross and how they have been wonderful to those around them. As I sat and listened, I grew to appreciate Greg and Hailey the more I learned, and I also got excited to see what happens in their future. 

Greg and Hailey, your wedding day was peaceful and joyful. I pray that those themes continue in the years to come, and that you both continue to love each other with Christ-like love. THANK YOU for inviting me to share such a memorable day with you, and trusting me to capture it for you. That is a tremendous honor I will always be grateful for. Now, enjoy your honeymoon and RELAX!

xoxo