We’ve had an uncharacteristic month of heavy rain, which of course has given my bride’s a bit more stress than I’d like. However I always like to enter every wedding day with a positive attitude that we can overcome any “obstacle” and create beauty from it! Noel + Alex’s church wedding and Pensacola Country Club reception was such an occasion where this was a total success.

When I first arrived at the Country Club where Noel was getting ready, the rain was coming down pretty hard. But fortunately the ceremony was taking place at St Paul Catholic Church INDOORS, and all of our photos were taking place at the Club many hours from that point. After assuring Noel that I totally had this (because God is awesome!), she was able to relax a bit and start really soaking in the day (pun intended. Hehe!).

No first look for this pair! And Alex’s eyes went all misty when he saw his gorgeous redhead walking towards him. It’s what every bride dreams her groom will do, and it certainly melted my heart a wee bit seeing it!

Everything about this day was not only stunning, but worked out perfectly for every photographic situation we encountered. Because Pensacola Country Club has a covered patio out back, we were able to jump in and out of the sparse rain showers to take our photos. It was an ideal day for me with cloud covering and dappled sunlight sprinkling through the trees!

The reception was a primo celebration for a solid two hours! Bay Kings Band gave us classic tunes from the past 40 years, and Noel (who is a STELLAR singer) serenaded us with a little Aretha Franklin before she and Alex headed out for the night. Bubbles made for a unique departure style, and I insist that people do this type of exit more often!

{Noel was the sweetest and gave me some Q+A time to add some fun to their post! Read along for some fun facts about her and Alex and all the planning fun.}

How did you two meet/How long have you been together?
“We met through mutual friends and he asked me out on a date and we’ve been inseparable ever since!”

How did he pop the question?
“He asked if I wanted to go to Ft Pickens one last time before he moved to Virginia Beach and so I said of course because we both love it there and there wasn’t a soul there.  We went up to the top and he proposed!”

What was the biggest challenge you faced in planning your wedding?
“The biggest challenge I faced in planning the wedding was doing everything myself. I chose to do it all myself because I knew it would turn out exactly how I wanted it to. Down to designing the invitations, menus and place cards!”

What surprised you about your wedding day?
“I was surprised that it stopped raining and that we had a gorgeous sunset at the end of it all.”

What advice would you offer to other couples planning a wedding?
“Write everything down and keep it in the same place. Ask for help when you need it or else the day will come and you’ll only remember how stressed you were about everything you need to do.”

What photography-related advice would you offer to other couples?
“Choose a photographer that you know has consistently amazing work. If you know their shooting style then you will know what to expect.”

How was your experience taking photos/working with me on your wedding day?
“Alex and I loved working with you. His exact words were that ‘she made me fee comfortable and I didn’t few awkward at all’. We felt like we knew you our whole lives. You were so funny and kept making us laugh, and it really shows in the photos. We will definitely be calling you for baby photos!”

What was your absolute favorite part of the day? Does your spouse have a different favorite?
“My favorite part of the day was the dance party at the very end. Alex said his was seeing me walk down the aisle.”

Check out the looks on the band members faces!! They’re blown away by Noel’s voice!!

VENDORS WE LOVE
Ceremony Venue: St Paul Catholic Church
Reception/Getting Ready Venue: Pensacola Country Club
Florist: Sunshine Designs Florist
Makeup Artist: Danielle Dauson
Hair: Chelsea Domschke/Arrow Salon & Spa
Bridal Gown: Ruthy’s Creations
Groom’s Tux: Men’s Wearhouse
Rings: Jeweler’s Trade Shop
Band: Bay Kings Band
Second Shooter: P.S. Cobia Photography