On a warm summer evening in Charleston dancing the night away at a wedding reception, this couple’s sweet love story began. But that evening wasn’t just any old evening. It was July 9, 2011, exactly 5 years before the date Allison & Mike would tie the knot and dance the night away at their very own wedding reception! Can you imagine a sweeter way to celebrate the 5th anniversary of meeting than celebrating their marriage with all of their family and friends? When Allison & I first met, I knew right from the start that their day would be so thoughtful and a total blast! Her classic style was so beautiful alongside the color palette and venues for the day – and pairing Allison’s stunning gown next to Mike’s sharp tux was the perfect combination for a Southern wedding! And wow, did we experience some Southern summer heat or what?! Allison & Mike and their crew braved 101 degree temperatures like rockstars! And gosh, it was so worth it because everything turned out perfectly!

Even though they’ll now call Atlanta home, celebrating their marriage in places near and dear to Allison’s heart was such a special addition to their wedding day! Allison, a teacher, grew up attending St. Mary’s on the Hill with her family, and most recently taught elementary school there to sweet kiddos! Just right around the corner from her house, the church was the most sentimental place for Allison & Mike to exchange their vows! Add in the Augusta Country Club where Allison grew up visiting and had her bridal portraits done, and you’ve got a pretty amazing day! Plus, bright and early on the morning of the wedding, Allison gave me a call to let me know that they’d have another special addition to their day. With a long legacy of family friends being escorted away from their receptions in a vintage, red convertible, Allison let me know that her father’s friend would be there for a few photos and memories to add to the collection! I loved how they incorporated so many classic & meaningful details into their day (oh, and that amazing silver tray of Allison’s family’s that I got to shoot details on? Allison shined it up the morning of the wedding and I’m so glad she did, because it was pure perfection!). Finally, with the band rocking the night away, Allison & Mike grooved with their families and friends under amazing floral adorned chandeliers for a party full of energy, dance offs and generations of people from age 90 to toddler.

It was the most amazing day, and now Allison & Mike are off to enjoy a week in the beautiful St. Lucia! And a final little fun fact: on this same day, Allison’s maid of honor’s great family friend (who is also one of my family’s long-time friends!) got married! He and his new wife will be at the same resort as the new Bauers for the week! And in other same wedding day connections, 2 other couples at Allison’s wedding had the same wedding date, as well as my parents (33 year and counting!). Sounds like July 9 makes some pretty awesome marriages!

More than anything, this wedding day was one full of love and whole lot of fun! Allison & Mike, thank you so much for sharing your day with me. When we kicked off the first day of 2016 with your engagement session, I knew we’d be having a wonderful year of celebrations together! From the sweetest mention from Allison of “I’m so glad you’re here” during your first look, to the way you two swayed and twirled on the dance floor, every moment you shared was so special! It was such a treat to be a part and get to know you, your families and friends, and I can’t wait to hear about all of your fun adventures in Atlanta at Piedmont Park and trying new restaurants around the city! “Doing life” together is just the best! Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Bauer!

Ceremony: St. Mary’s on the Hill | Reception, Catering & Cake: Augusta Country Club | Day-of Coordinator: Whitney Sullivan of House of the Bride | Videography: Hometown Crew | Florist: Lisa Rhodes | Band: Momentum Party Band | Makeup & Hair: Bella Faccia LLC Skincare & Beauty Studio | Bride’s Gown: Casablanca from Wedding Angels Bridal Boutique | Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Bill Levkoff from The House of the Bride | Men’s Attire: Simon’s Formal Wear Augusta | Violinist: Dr. Laura Tomlin | Second Shooter: Chelsey Dellinger Photography