All I know is… April Fools’ Day will never be topped!

Ruthie + Tyler’s colorful spring soiree at the Illges House in Columbus, Ga was truly a dream. Though the day began with thunderstorms, the clouds passed and made way for some truly stunning sunshine for all to enjoy.

Ruthie and her many bridesmaids got ready at the Illges House in button down shirts– playing card games, swapping stories, and toasting with champagne. As it was April Fools’ Day, Ruthie (one of the world’s funniest people) decided to give each of her bridesmaids what they thought were sentimental gifts from Ruthie and her family, thanking them for being a part of her wedding day. Instead, they opened bags with a Smirnoff Ice – and they all took a knee!

Rather than asking her bridesmaids to buy a particular dress, she asked them each to wear their favorite frock– creating a stunning, colorful swirl of style. 

After pre-ceremony photos, guests arrived at St. Luke Church, the church that Ruthie’s family has attended since she was born, for a truly touching ceremony. Rather than having a traditional flower girl, Ruthie’s beloved grandmother and her great-grandson skipped down the aisle, tossing flower petals as they went.

Following a beautiful ceremony, guests went to a truly stunning tented reception at the Illges House. Colorful floral arrangements, an oyster bar, signature cocktails, and a clear top tent (adorned with disco balls) awaited them. After some truly epic first dances, guests enjoyed the music of the couple’s good friends, Clay Street Unit– and it was, hands down, one of the best wedding band experiences I’ve ever had. 

As the night went on, the jokes continued – whoopee cushions, temporary tattoos with Ruthie + Tyler’s faces, and a nice Smirnoff ice incident for Tyler during the cake cutting. 

When the music stopped, Ruthie + Tyler ran through a tunnel of wedding wands while carrying umbrellas – an homage to their hometown of NOLA. 

Ruthie + Tyler, you are a joy and a delight. It was an honor to photograph your wedding day! Cheers to a lifetime of bliss!

Colorful spring soiree at the Illges House in Columbus, Ga | Ruthie + Tyler | Eliza Morrill Photography