Palm Coast Wedding | Kristin and Emerson

“We are still kids, but we’re so in love
Fighting against all odds
I know we’ll be alright this time
Darling, just hold my hand
Be my girl, I’ll be your man
I see my future in your eyes”

— Ed Sheeran

I must say, this weekend’s wedding was one for the books! When Kristin told me their idea to invite all their friends to their beautiful new home and then surprise them with a wedding, I was allllll about it. And it’s such a Kristin and Emerson thing to do to begin their marriage by thinking of what they could do to serve their friends and make the experience more fun and enjoyable for them. The first time I really had the chance to get to know them they were helping to set up and tear down Amber and Tony’s wedding. They worked tirelessly the entire time and asked for nothing in return. They are such incredible individuals, and together even more so.

It feels like just yesterday we were wandering around Ravine Gardens State Park for their engagement session and they were wowing me with their incredible dance skills, and then they blew me away further still at their reception; I could have watched them for hours. They know each other so well they made it look effortless, as if they were the same person in two bodies. Simply beautiful.

When they made the surprise announcement the whole backyard erupted into cheers. Everyone was so happy for them!

They quickly ran inside to change their clothes while friends and family pulled out the chairs from hiding and set up the ceremony space.

They were both in tears at the sight of each other and in the excitement of being surrounded by their favorite people at their beautiful new home.

Everyone followed them to reception venue just down the street and the celebrating and dancing commenced. It was such a fun night!

Thank you for inviting me to participate you guys! I had so much fun!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photography: Cynthia Viola

Hair Stylist: Holly Poulos

Make Up Artist: Amber Viola

Officiant: Donna Banks

Photobooth: Photo Booth St Augustine

Reception Venue: Palm Coast Arts Foundation

Venue Coordinator: Nancy Crouch

Caterer: Dahlia's Mexican Kitchen

DJ: LTH

Cupcakes: Marie Gammero

Rentals: Andy's Taylor Rentals

Engagement Session at Ravine Gardens | Kristin and Emerson

“When you meet the one who changes the way your heart beats, dance with them to that rhythm for as long as the song lasts”

— Kirk Dietrich

So Kristin is basically my sister. We met a couple years ago when my brother and sister in law were getting married (her sister) and became fast friends as we helped set up the wedding. And Emerson too! He is a ninja with wood work and all things handy, the wedding just wouldn't have happened on time without him. I'm pretty sure Kristin and Emerson were the only ones on the dance floor more than AJ and I as well, and they were fantastic! I love watching people who love to dance. So obviously we had to incorporate that into today's session a bit. ;)

We had never been to Ravine Gardens State Park before but it looked so beautiful online it seemed like a great place to check out. We were not disappointed. Gorgeous Spanish moss, bamboo, bridges, rock walls, and we barely even got past the main entrance! Can't wait to explore the whole thing. 

The season of engagement is so so fast. You spend the whole thing planning the big day and it can be easy to forget to plan for your marriage and also to just step back and enjoy this sweet time. Engagement sessions are my favorite way to give couples the opportunity to love on each other, laugh, play and tell each other what they are most looking forward to in marriage and what they love most about each other.

Watching Emerson and Kristin share their whispers and giggles made me smile every time. I SO loved exploring this new park with you both! Congratulations on your engagement! 

If you enjoyed this post, you might also enjoy Beth and Sean's couple session or Anna and Anthony's engagement.