Jordan + Barret at The Grand Ivory

Within four white, open walls, Jordan & Barret marked their first marriage with a second set of vows. When the extenuating circumstances of coronavirus intervened with their original May date, they started their marriage more intimately. Patiently, from May to August, they waited to celebrate a little bigger and a little louder with the wedding they’d planned at The Grand Ivory. I felt so honored to be a part of that second celebration, touched by months of effort and loads of prayer.

I distinctly remember walking away from meeting Jordan & Barret from our coffee shop meeting last year (back when I had coffee shop meetings!), thinking what a special couple they were and what a gift it would be to capture their day. I was encouraged just as a human being spending an hour with them, so I knew spending their whole wedding day cheering for them would land me over the moon. Nothing disappointed.

Jordan and her mom worked together to create this incredible day from top to bottom, and they did such a beautiful job. Handwritten verses dressed the tables under greenery and gold accents. Each bridesmaid wore pink floral and a bouquet announcing their character: compassionate, determined, genuine. They used a prayer calendar for the month of the wedding, covering everything from the health and safety of the guests, to God’s glory filling the venue on the wedding day. (I may have screenshotted and joined along – I mean that is next level prayerful).

Jordan’s planning expertise didn’t stop at all the DIY magic; she also did a fantastic job picking the vendors they used. She chose white & green florals, and they couldn’t have been more elegant against the bright white backdrop of The Grand Ivory – one of my all time favorite venues. Jordan looked perfect in her A & Be Bridal Shop gown, and her hair & makeup were flawless thanks to Eyes by Erica and Jessica McClure. The Royal Dukes Band made the reception a party, and each guest left with a koozie memento in the prettiest pastel colors.

The bride & groom made their exit to their vintage getaway car amid sparklers labeled in light blue “Let sparks fly.” (Not until sharing a private last dance and so graciously taking the time to thank the band for such a fantastic night – of course.)

And I can’t not mention the gift I unwrapped from them later that night as I was backing up all their photos and videos; they made a mug especially for me reading “Lizzie, thank you for capturing our special day!” I predict the morale boost with my (now favorite) mug will lead to my very best work. 😉

I know, in this climate, nothing is quite as it’s planned, especially not events with big numbers. Thankfulness is more valuable and attractive than ever, and I can see it makes every moment sweeter. It’s a privilege to celebrate couples so rich in the currency of grace.

Jordan & Barret, I’m so thankful to cheer for you. I can see Jesus in your joy, gratitude, and the way you celebrate others even when the expectation is to focus on yourselves. It’s been a privilege walking unexpectedly to August together, and I’m excited I get to stay in this day a little longer as I edit the rest of the photos and video too (YAY). Happy marriage!!!