Natalie + Jake Wedding at Howe Farms Pavilion

Chattanooga, TN

I am always a bit nervous before a wedding. I’ve heard that even the most seasoned veterans get a little anxious before every wedding, just because a good photographer understands just how important those images are to the couple. Although I always have some jitters, I was particularly nervous about Natalie and Jake’s wedding. Not because of them—no, Natalie and Jake are two of the most incredible humans. They’re engagement session was one of my favorites to date and Natalie and I ended up spending two hours just chatting over coffee when we were supposed to be talking wedding details. Plus, they were planning their wedding at Howe Farms Pavilion–literally one of the most gorgeous venues in Chattanooga, TN!

No, I was nervous because this was one of the first weddings I’ve where there was absolutely no shade. Because of the venue is on a mountain ridge, there are very few shady spots. And to add to that, this wedding day was a record high temperature for May: 90 degrees! Maybe for any other wedding party, this would have been borderline deal breaker full of complaints, a bit of anger, etc. Not this couple. Not this bridal party. They were excited, flexible, fun—the party was constantly helping fluff Natalie’s dress, run for water, throw Jake in the air. If you are a bride wanting an example for what the perfect bridal party looks like—look no further than Jake and Natalie’s wedding. 

The best and most revealing part I think of this day, though—the part that makes me know that Natalie and Jake’s day was God-ordained is they did not opt for a first look. Had they, we would have been in that direct sun all over again. Although the weather forecast never called for it, as soon as the ceremony started, it became completely overcast—leading to a beautiful ceremony, an awesome reception, and some of my favorite couple shots of all time. 

What God brings together, let no man (or sun) separate. I think Natalie and Jake have already proved they are meant to be.