In April, we headed to Mississippi for Brandi & Zach’s wedding day. We arrived to beautiful spring weather, the most lovely welcome dinner where we met their families and friends, and stunning landscapes.

The next morning began with a forecast was showing 80% chance of rain, but the sky looked like it could be clear. We arrived on site and after talking with the couple and coordinator, we decided to wait to move the outdoor ceremony (overlooking a massive pond-OBSESSED) indoors until we absolutely had to. Brandi had been dreaming of an outdoor ceremony, and we were going to make it happen for her.

After we finished up bridal details, we started our day at The Barn at Bridlewood’s grooms barn with the groomsmen and groomsmen, and let me tell you, Zach had the BEST groomsmen. We loved our time with the guys, hearing Zach’s friends share intimate toasts about what a good man he is, and learning about all the matching tattoos (photos not included, sorry). The best kinds of friends can keep things fun and serious at the same time, am I right?!

We headed over to the girls at their getting ready location, and as the bridesmaids gifted Brandi with a handmade scrapbook of their favorite memories together, we started to feel the raindrops. By the time Brandi got dressed, the rain had started to pour. Luckily, The Barn at Bridlewood has a stunning HUGE porch, so we took care of all the portraits we could underneath. If you’ve followed along for a while, you know that this is my favorite part of every wedding day. Getting dressed and ready, sharing the family first looks, and feeling the anticipation of the upcoming ceremony.

Brandi & Zach opted to share private vows, and the two of them stood under an awning together in the rain. There was no better way to set the tone for the rest of their wedding day than seeing the two of them, back to back, holding hands. It felt like for a moment time was standing still inside the venue that had previously been a frenzy of preparation and anticipation.

We had gotten so nervous, and wondered if we would need to move things indoors, because the rain was NOT letting up. About 10 minutes before the ceremony was scheduled to start, we started to see the clouds lightening, did a quick huddle, and decided to go ahead with the ceremony as planned. Guests headed down to the site with their umbrellas, and Brandi and Zach had the most beautiful ceremony with just a drizzle, overlooking the pond at the Barn at Bridlewood.

Here are some of my favorite images from their ceremony.

This reception was SO MUCH FUN. Brandi & Zach told us how important it was for them that they got to have FUN on their wedding day, and this reception delivered!!

If you’re planning a wedding in Mississippi, I HIGHLY recommend the Barn at Bridlewood. Plus, we have an exclusive travel discount to come and photograph your wedding here-just mention the venue in your contact form!