As I walked through American Spirit Works during the reception capturing Lauren & Barrett as they mingled with guests, I thought to myself “Lauren is completely radiant” —her joy, excitement and inner beauty gleamed like diamonds in the light. It took my breath away.

And I wasn’t the only one overcome by emotion. Let’s rewind to the ceremony when the sanctuary doors flew open and Lauren walked down the aisle. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room! Everyone was emotional, but most noticeably, of course, was Barrett. According to best man Giulian, Barrett said “I’ve got this” right before the doors opened, but when Lauren entered the sanctuary, he just totally lost it! It was such an amazing example of how beautiful the start to married life truly is. But the day wasn’t only full of tears, joy and laughter also filled the wedding from start to finish. And to top it all off, we were blessed with the most gorgeous day full of beautiful sunshine!

Lauren & Barrett – you are precious. I have absolutely loved being a small part in this chapter of your lives. Barrett, your love for Lauren is beautiful. I love the way you make her smile & laugh – you bring the joy & fun! And Lauren, you are beautiful and radiant from the inside out. I love the way you care for everyone around you in such a sweet & sincere way. I hope these photos always bring you guys back to the emotions and moments that made your wedding day so amazing! Much love & appreciation – Carrie Joy

Isn’t Lauren’s bouquet fabulous? Love the design by Kristine Polstra at Bold American Events

The First Look with Dad is quickly becoming one of my favorite parts of the wedding day!

Isn’t Lauren gorgeous? And I just adore this sweet moment between her & her sister Steph (above)

Love this one of the gorgeous girls! Each bridesmaid wore a different Alfred Sung design in gorgeous deep blue. So elegant!

Guys looking dapper in menswear from The Black Tux! Don’t you just love their ties? So unique!

Barrett’s reaction to seeing Lauren as his bride had us all wiping away tears!

That triumphant moment – first kiss as husband & wife!

So much JOY! (and the wind & light made Lauren’s veil so dreamy)

One of my absolute favorites of the day – there’s just something so timeless about a great black & white portrait!

I just loved the gorgeous head table with the lush garland of greenery & accents of gold magnolia flowers, and those chairs are a dream!

The expressions here are my FAVORITE! From laughter to tears, the toasts were perfect.

Right about at this point I was wiping away tears… the parent dances get my every time!

The Ramblin’ Reck made for a fabulous getaway car! 🙂

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Ahlers! I just adored being a part of your day! 🙂

A big Thank You to Kristina Lawson for capturing the day with me & to the following vendors who helped make Lauren & Barrett’s day a success:

Ceremony Venue: St Peter Chanel Catholic Church | Reception Venue: The Stave Room at American Spirit Works | Bride’s Hair & Makeup: Jennifer Adams, Formal Faces | Bride’s Gown: The White Magnolia, Designer: Augusta Jones | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Weddington Way, Designer: Alfred Sung | Menswear: The Black Tux | Florist: Kristine Polstra with Bold American Events | Catering: Bold American Events | Cake: Pam Addicks with Gabriel’s Desserts | DJ: Lou Guzzo with Spectrum Entertainment | Priest – Father Desmond Drummer | Chalk Drawing: Kate Turner