I had the absolute joy of photographing Jimmy and Hannah’s fall Nashville wedding at one of my favorite venues in Nashville, The Ruby. This venue is the epitome of classic elegance with its high ceilings, beautiful clay-like walls, string lights, and expansive windows. It’s a photographer’s dream, providing the perfect backdrop for capturing unforgettable moments.

The day began in a cozy room at the back of the venue, where Hannah got ready with her mom and best friend. Hannah was glowing – literally and metaphorically. She was one of the most relaxed brides I have ever worked with. As vendors popped in and out of her room with questions and last minute reminders, she had a smile on her face the whole time, handling each interaction with grace.

The Ruby’s surroundings are equally as beautiful as the inside, with beautiful stone, tall grass, and trees creating perfect shadows for photos. When Jimmy arrived, he immediately took charge with a keen attention to detail, complementing Hannah’s calm and joyful demeanor perfectly. His classic look, down to the perfect watch, made for striking groom portraits both inside and outside the venue – the portraits we took right inside the venue’s entrance are some of my favorites.

Jimmy and Hannah chose not to do a first look but opted for a “first touch” instead. Before the ceremony, they held hands around the corner of the venue, hidden from their guests, and took a moment to pray with one another. I could tell, in that moment, both of their nerves subsided.

As the guests took their seats and the music started, the sun started to soften through the big Ruby windows. Hannah made her way down the aisle, and let me tell ya, the tears were flowing—myself included. They exchanged rings and vows, and before we knew it, they were walking back down the aisle as husband and wife.

We quickly snuck away for portraits after the ceremony, making use of the golden hour submersed greenery, and returned just in time for their grand entrance into the reception. The ceremony space had been transformed into a sophisticated reception area with long tables, moody lighting, and a dance floor at the head of the room. Their guests applauded as they made their entrance, and the night continued with heartfelt toasts, delicious dinner, and more tears of joy. As they danced the night away, and the wedding day fatigue started to hit, I got that feeling. The feeling of exhaustion mixed with bliss.

After a wedding day, these individuals who were strangers to me no less than 6 hours ago, start to feel like family. The youngest cousins are making silly faces at me, I’m debating the best coffee in Nashville with the brother in the law while teaching grandpa Joe how to take a photo on his new iPhone, and aunt Linda is squeezing me tight as I try to leave for the third time. I love my job as a wedding photographer. It’s like being invited into one big family and friend reunion. Photographing such an important day feels so sacred to me, and as I look back on the photos from this day, I can’t help but smile and feel incredibly grateful for this job.