About 1.5 years ago when I was officially launching Lauren Carnes Photography, I frantically walked into the Wells Fargo in Athens asking to sit down with a banker to discuss business account options. I told them I was a photographer and that anything with numbers tended to frighten me. Little did I know, God winked at me that day – not only did I sit down with a banker, but someone who also did photography on the side and quickly became a friend: Shawnte! We’ve kept in touch over the years when I visited Athens, GA, and just a couple months ago I received an inquiry from the sweetest bride, Monica, to tell me that Shawnte, her small group leader, had recommended she reach out to me to capture her big day! Let’s just say, I’m so grateful for my lack of banking knowledge! 😉

While Monica & Jason have only been together for a short while, this is the perfect case of “when you know, you know.” And goodness, everyone can attest to that – even only knowing them for a couple months, I know it too! Their love is so evident for each other and those around them. In all of our conversations, they kindly encouraged each other and made decisions based on what was best for their marriage. One decision was that they wanted to prioritize quality photography for a few hours of their day, so when they asked if that would be possible, I was excited to find a way to serve them well! It meant the world that they felt I would be a great fit to capture their most precious memories as husband & wife! I’m so thrilled with what we created for their wedding day.

From the intimate moments of their first look where Jason literally ran to Monica in excitement, and Jason gifting Monica with letters he’s written to her for years, to each of them taking turns washing each other’s feet during the ceremony, everything pointed back to their love of each other and of Christ. Jason’s brother officiated the wedding and explained: “When Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, He told them (and us), ‘I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you’ (John 13:15). As His followers, we are to emulate Him, serving one another in lowliness of heart and mind, seeking to build one another up in humility and love.” What a beautiful reminder of service and love on your first day of marriage as you celebrate such a beautiful union! Plus, speaking of beauty, Monica was absolutely stunning in her gown, and even with a bit of drizzle that day, the arboretum of the State Botanical Garden of Georgia looked like a lush rainforest in the middle of February!

Monica & Jason, thank you for sharing your love! I feel so humbled to have had the chance to serve you in a unique way and document the foundation of your marriage. The way you two look at each other is such a reminder of His providence in our lives, and such an inspiration! Wishing you all the best as you celebrate your marriage and life together!