Jacquain and Cornichia were married last May in front of their closest friends and sweet family. Due to unforeseen circumstances with their original venue, they were forced to change their wedding venue just a few short weeks before the wedding. This could have caused major issues, stress, and tears but this couple pivoted their wedding plans for an Elizabeth City Wedding in Cornichia’s parents backyard with such grace and beauty you would never have known it wasn’t originally supposed to be there in the first place. As a professional Elizabeth City wedding photographer, I have seen a lot of wedding plans change and every couple handles it differently.  With Cornichia and Jacquain, it was just another chance to show what their wedding day was really all about. After all, it wasn’t about the venue at all, it was about the love shared and the joining of two beautiful souls in marriage. The stuff that matters.

I knew already from their engagement session, that this couple was special! Even though it was super cold (in January) when we photographed their session, they had a blast anyway! Which was just extra proof that, rain or shine, original venue or not, it wasn’t going to mess with their JOY! When their wedding day rolled around, it was one of the sweetest and most beautiful weddings I’ve ever had the privilege of photographing.

 

Jacquain’s suit color was the perfect subtle pop needed to set him apart from his groomsmen. We photographed the guys getting ready just a few short blocks from their meet up spot. The entrance to the neighborhood had lots of beautiful greenery and even a few palm trees which served as the perfect backdrop for pictures. We all got a few honks and stares from people driving in and out of the neighborhood but it was worth it!

Some of the most special moments during the getting ready process is when Mom gets involved. The sweetness of making sure the tie is perfect, looking their son in the eyes and drinking in the realness of the moment, it gets me every time! Jacquain and his beautiful mother had a connection like no other. I’m not sure I’ve ever witnessed the tenderness and joy exhibited. You could feel the love shared!

While the Bridesmaids were getting the dressed, Cornichia and her gorgeous Mom stepped outside to have the “getting ready” detail shots of the zipping/buttoning of the dress photographed. She also helped her with the final touches of jewelry too. Her Mom’s deep purple dress complemented all the gorgeous hues of purples in the flowers and also in the bridesmaids dresses.

VIBEvents and Yeopim Flowers truly helped to transform the backyard into a garden oasis. Everywhere the eye could see were pops of purple, soft pink and beautiful greens. These two vendors made sure that everything was perfect and in place for Cornichia and Jacquain’s Elizabeth City wedding.

One of the most requested photos of the entire wedding day is to capture the look of the Groom when he sees the Bride walking down the aisle. Most eyes are naturally on the Bride as she walks down the aisle but my second shooter is always focused on the Groom to ensure that sweet smile is captured. Jacquain’s happiness was all over his face as his beautiful Bride walked towards him.

Cornichia’s beautiful bridesmaids specifically placed all their bouquets at the bottom of her dress and requested the photo shown below. It was a fabulous idea and the result was beautiful! I’m always open to requests and ideas on the wedding day in order to give the best experience and not miss a wonderful opportunity.

The wedding party showed up and showed off their amazing dance moves while being introduced into the reception. The guests were on their feet and cheering each couple walking in! When it was time for the Bride and Groom to come around the corner, it was on! They had so much fun dancing their way into the party!

One of my favorite things about their wedding was the use of the arbor the entire time! Not only did they get married in front of it, the head table was put in front of it and the cake was just behind it. The results were incredible for photographs!

Instead of doing a “fake exit” at the end of wedding photography coverage, after the cake cut the DJ had the guests line up while the Bride and Groom danced their way down the aisle. This beat the pants off of a “fake exit” all day long! After this, the dance floor was open and everyone joined in! This is such a perfect example of how when you make your wedding day a reflection of you, the results are incredible!

Jacquain and Cornichia’s wedding was the funnest wedding I’ve ever photographed! Backyard weddings and dance offs featuring a beautiful couple in love? Sign me up. I’m there. Are you planning the wedding of your dreams in 2022 or 2023? My calendar for 2022 has a few wedding dates open and I can also lock in your 2023 date as well. It is never to early to start planning! I hope this joyful post has inspired future couples to go with the flow and plan weddings that are heartfelt, beautiful, and full of fun like the Middletons.

 

VENDORS:

Second Shooter: Kelly Parnell of Photos by Kelly

Florals: Yeopim Flowers

Wedding Decor: VIBEvents

Food: Adkins Catering

Cake: Luxe Cake Studio

DJ: DJ Lowkey

Makeup Artist: Telya Perry

Hair: Shennia Bryant

Wedding Venue and Reception Venue: Bride’s parents backyard

Dress: Stella York- Carolina Bridal World

Rings: Kay Jewelry