Melanie & Alex are another one of my couples whose plans drastically changed thanks to COVID-19. Rather than having the big wedding in May as planned, they decided to have a smaller ceremony on their original date and then throw a large party / reception later on. So on May 30th, in front of their immediate families, they tied the knot in an intimate and emotional ceremony. And honestly… it couldn’t have been more perfect. Melanie teared up while reading a letter from Alex, Alex teared up upon seeing Melanie for the first time, Melanie’s boss teared up as she surprised them with a driveby appearance, and there were tears all around during the ceremony & toasts. This really was one of the most joyful days I’ve captured, and I think it really shows in the photos.
My heart ached for Melanie & Alex when they realized they had to switch up their original plans for May 30, but I must say that they have had the best attitudes through it all. First the coronavirus, and then nationwide protests sparked the night before their wedding. Alex said he could hear the helicopters circling throughout the night in Atlanta. So much has been happening all around them, and I know personally that it’s been hard some days to see the light. But Melanie & Alex were able to press pause on the chaos in the world and have a day full of love. And it was truly perfect.
When I commented on how beautifully everything came together, Melanie said “it takes an army to pull off a wedding in a pandemic, and everyone really was so supportive and helpful even down to the small details.” Melanie found a new dress (saving the original dress for their upcoming larger celebration), and it was drop dead GORGEOUS on her. She also wore her mom’s veil, Alex’s great grandmother’s bracelet, and her best friend’s mom’s earrings. We were still able to get pictures at both of their original venues, and WOW were they stunning. Their ceremony was held at the Cathedral of St. Philip, AKA one of the prettiest churches I’ve ever seen. They then went over to the exquisite Biltmore Ballrooms where they got to enjoy dinner, toasts, & cake cutting with their loved ones.
I could go on and on about how emotional and wonderful this day was, but I think you’ll be able to see it in the photos below. Thank you, Melanie & Alex, for being such a light during this crazy time. Thank you for choosing to prioritize love over stress. I know I won’t be able to be there at your next celebration, but photographing this special day is something I will never ever forget or take for granted.
Ceremony Venue: The Cathedral of St. Philip // Reception Venue: The Biltmore Ballrooms // Florals: Stems Atlanta // Hair & Makeup: Bombshell Creations // Cake: Deborah’s Specialty Cakes // Videography: Clawson Media
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