Where do I even begin? Looking back on Mary Margaret + Sanders’ wedding, all I can say is that it was perfect. Truly perfect. I am honored to photograph every wedding that I’m invited to shoot, but this was so much more special than I could ever describe.

I’ve known Mary Margaret since I was four, and I can truly say that I don’t know one person that could ever say a bad thing about her. She is kind, considerate, inclusive, beautiful, and a true reflection of what God calls us to be. I get emotional when I think of my first days at UGA, following an incredibly difficult time for my family, and the love and kindness and generosity she extended towards me. It became abundantly clear at their rehearsal dinner that Sanders is her perfect match in that he, too, is all of these things. Nearly everyone present spoke about how both Mary Margaret + Sanders, both together an independently of each other, had influenced their lives so positively. Guests told stories of two people who repeatedly went out of their way to be helpful and kind to those around them. It was so, so beautiful.

I guess that’s not surprising, though, considering the wonderful families that raised them. If you know either of them, you know how family-oriented they are, and how important each family member is to them. How fitting, then, that every detail of their day honored and remembered those that they love so much?

Mary Margaret wore a brooch in her hair that was first worn by her great aunt, and then by her cousin, as well as her earrings. The center stone in her engagement ring belonged to Sanders’ great grandmother, and he now wears the same wedding band that his great grandfather wore for decades. They were married at St. Paul, a cornerstone of Mary Margaret’s family. Her parents were married there, she and her siblings were all christened there, and she walked down the aisle to music composed to her great, great, great, great, great, great grandfather (YES!) who moved to America in 1744. The cake knife Mary Margaret + Sanders used to cut their cake dates back to 1846, and has been used by so many of her relatives. Are you in awe? Because I am. Truly.

Beyond all of these incredible details, though, was so much love. From family, friends, guests– it was amazing.

Mary Margaret + Sanders, thank you so much for being so wonderful. Cheers to a lifetime of bliss!

SHOUTOUT TO SOME TRULY INCREDIBLE VENDORS:

Ceremony: St. Paul UMC

Reception: RiverMill Event Centre

Planning + Coordination: P. Hasting Design

Floral Design: Albright’s

Catering: JK Culinary

Bride’s Dress: Joan Pillow

Invitation Suite: Studio R Design

Band: Life of the Party

Second Shooter: Jessica Porter

Hair + Makeup: Emily Cumings