Alyssa and BJ’s wedding day was all about their relationships and love!  Everywhere I turned there was someone who traveled great lengths to be there or someone who had been lifelong friends with Alyssa or BJ.  We drove a few sweet bridesmaids to the reception.  When I asked about their connection with Alyssa, their friendships reached as far back as fourth grade.  They said, “when you get a friend like her, you hold on tight.”

The whole wedding was a great picture of how a village (family and friends) can truly show up for each other a create amazing things together.  BJ’s mother, Laurenda, and I go way back.  I first met Laurenda when she catered my Dad’s football banquets many years ago.  She catered my own wedding!!  I’ve loved getting to know and appreciate Laurenda through the wedding industry.  What a delight to walk with Alyssa, BJ and the rest of their village through their Wedding Experience.  From when he popped the question at Biltmore House all the way to when they exited The Loom under a tunnel of sparklers!

What made their day even more special is this was the first wedding in the new sanctuary of Advent United Methodist since the fire in 2017.  The church’s covered crosswalks were essential to our outdoor images with the unexpected mist and rain.  We did sneak in about five minutes of portraits outside The Loom while the weather held off.

Vibrant and cheerful are the perfect words to describe their wedding day.  I could really tell Alyssa, BJ, and their family and friends were truly experiencing the emotions and joy of the day.  Seriously, so many tears!  My favorite moments were hearing little snippets about Alyssa and BJ’s lives throughout the day.  The sentimental toasts wrecked us all.  BJ’s grandparents dancing together and sharing advice on growing a great marriage.  tears.  tears.  I’m just so thankful to have been a part of this special day for such special people!

Father Daughter first look!

Their flower girls met this weekend and became instant friends.  It was so fun to watch them play together!

I’ll be honest, I wish their reception lasted all weekend.  The food was fantastic!  I know I wasn’t the only one savoring every bite!  With so many delicious options and special treats we all could have been fed for days!

Pinguinos Hermanos is now offering wedding and event services!