Christi and I met years ago at a mutual friend's place at Hammock Beach. Immediately, it was clear that she was a sweet and wonderful person. Her smile and laugh are contagious, she is so kind, and she is hilarious! When she contacted me to photograph her wedding, I was so excited. Without knowing any details, I knew that it would be a joyous occasion with family and friends. As the events starting falling into place for her wedding to Jeremy, they decided to jump the gun and do an intimate beach ceremony in May. They wanted to be legally married, and were going to continue the plans with their big wedding November. It's funny how life goes though. ;) They soon found out that a baby was on the way! I love that this didn't deter them from celebrating their union. This is how their wedding day hashtag #maymeetsnovember2015 came about. Christi is always glowing, but it certainly seemed more special knowing that she was six months along with Baby James.
Christi started the day at the beautiful 4 story Kessler Suite at the Casa Monica Hotel. It was full of laughter and bustling activity. Christi's bridesmaids were fantastic! They made sure she had everything she needed or wanted. Christi's mom was also there and seeing the joy she had on her face melted my heart.
Jeremy and his groomsmen got ready at Christi and Jeremy's beach condo. My second photographer, Whitney did such a great job capturing the little details of their home. I always love it when part of the story is told at a home.
After taking a fun trolley ride with Christi and her bridesmaids, I stood in awe of ceremony location. Memorial Presbyterian in St. Augustine is Christi and Jeremy's home church. Built in 1889, the history of the church is matched by its splendor. Henry Flagler commissioned the church to be built in honor of his only daughter. After a beautiful service by Pastor Camp, the day turned into a party at the Treasury on the Plaza. DJ Jacob Towe not only kept the party going, but beautifully lit the reception space. He even made it snow as a surprise for Christi and Jeremy! She wanted the last song to be Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, and DJ Jacob wanted to make it extra special. Dawn and the ladies at The Wedding Authority kept the whole day flowing so smoothly, even though St Augustine briefly flooded during the ceremony! :)
Christi also had selected the date because it was the first night of the 22nd Night of Lights event in St Augustine. Three million lights adorn every corner of the historic district for two months. It was magical, and I am so happy they both wanted to do pictures after their reception in the park. It was a wonderful day, and I am honored that I was part of their special day!
Congratulations Christi, Jeremy, and sweet Baby James! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! It's going to be an exciting one! :)
Christi's wedding band was her grandmother's. I love when an heirloom is passed down in the family.
Vendors:
Getting Ready Location: Casa Monica Hotel
Ceremony Location: Memorial Presbyterian
Reception Location: Treasury on the Plaza
Event Planner: The Wedding Authority
Florist: Lori Parker Floral Studios
DJ: DJ Jacob Towe
Dress Designer: Essence of Australia
Dress Shop: Love Bridal Boutique
Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids
Engagement Ring: Beards Jewelry
Groom's Ring: Beards Jewelry
Cake: Sweet n Flour
Makeup Artist: Patricia Kozach
Hair Stylist: Michelle Schaefer
Transportation: Trolley
Catering: Purple Olive
Videographer: Fidelis Films
Second Photographer: Whitney Bilodeau
Assistant: Ashlei Katara