So I’m sitting here watching the cursor blink at me from it’s space in the “description” box for this blog post, and the more I try to figure out how to condense what I’d like to say about this wedding, the more I realise that it isn’t going to be possible. When dreams come true. When life blesses you with the unexpected. When what you thought was possible is superseded by the magical nature of abundance, there’s really very little one can do to sum it up in a mere paragraph. I say all of this thinking that I can only imagine this is how Luke and Belen felt about marrying their soulmate, and I say it also because that’s how I feel about them coming across me on Facebook, and offering to fly me to Atlanta, Georgia to capture their magnificent wedding day. I mean … can you even???

Luke and Belen are two beautiful, enthusiastic, genuine oh-so capable individuals. Both of them come from families who went out of their way (amidst coordinating the wedding I might add) to make me feel welcome and a part of everything that was happening, and even better, like an extra family member! Their wedding day ran slightly differently to weddings I’ve shot before, with an all day event beginning with a private ceremony at the couple’s LDS Temple in Sandy Springs. We spent some time surrounding their sacred sealing capturing the preparation and joy afterwards. Then it was on to their spectacular venue, Yarborough Mill in Fairmont (which is now one of my all time favourite venues in case you were wondering)! With a mass of live oaks, a converted barn and rivers, lemonade and a historic house, this place is the epitome of the Southern dream! The couple freshened up, and then hosted a less formal ring ceremony which they could share with loved ones under the tree’s … sigh! Everything, from flowers to DIY decorations were put together by caring family and friends who pitched in to make their dream day a reality. Despite the smouldering 98 degree weather, guests danced and laughed and celebrated like they didn’t notice the humidity. Belen and Luke’s nuptials were celebrated as they deserved to be, and I was the lucky person allowed into their most intimate day to capture it all! With every image I’ve edited, memories overwhelm and take me back to this American adventure. Being part of days like this are what grow my soul and fill me heart to the brim. Luke and Belen, Leonard and Albanes families … coming to know you all (or ya’ll should I say;) is one of the most memorable and cherished  experiences of my life to date. You truly are the most loving people, and I hope those personalities come across in the images from your great leap into the wedding of both of your firstborns! I send each one of you all my love from across the ocean in Cape Town where I sit typing this, and I can’t wait for you to relive this day through your pictures! Thank you, Luke and Belen, from the bottom of my heart for your faith in my abilities, and for the impact you’ve had on my life! Sending you both such love … Claire xxx

venue: yarborough mill | coordinator: james belyeu | dress: lorna’s bridal | suits: macy’s | bridesmaids dresses: dillard’s | cake: claudia zimmerman | hair & make up:   | bridesmaids shirts: dainty couture | stationary: the couple | crockery: joanetta jarman | officiant: bishop greg mackay | dj: harold glaze | catering: harvest moon cafe | guitar: john murphy | singers: rachel murphy & lisa zimmerman | photographers assistant: the ever patient & lovely, kayla leonard