John and Alida are truly an inspiring couple. And I 100% believe it was God who brought her to my booth that January day in Athens. A little more than two years before, I remember reading in the local newspapers about a tragic car accident in Bethlehem in which a young man named Anthony Hawkins lost his life to a drunk driver. My heart broke for the family and I remember saying a prayer for them. I had no idea that I would ever know the family—but it was Anthony’s sister, Alida, who I met at the bridal show and who later booked me for her wedding.
As I got to know Alida I learned that her fiancé, John, had also recently lost his father. These two have walked through the painful valleys of tragedy and loss, but in seeing one another through those times, they formed a solid foundation on which to build their lives together.
Alida is an elementary school teacher, fitness coach, avid runner and supporter of the annual Apple’s Journey 5K that takes place each year at Apalachee High School in honor of her brother. John has served our country in the military. Their families are some of the kindest people you will ever meet. Their bond and love for one another is evident, and their strong faith has seen them through some of the darkest times.
Friday was a time to celebrate Alida and John—and it was truly a gorgeous, sunny day with temperatures in the 60’s. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect for this special couple.
Alida’s brother and John’s father were very much a part of their day. Their photos were displayed at the ceremony and the reception, Alida carried a photo of her brother tied to her bouquet, John’s father’s knife and clip were in his pocket and a special handkerchief was tucked in his breast pocket.
We had a great time hanging out with John and his guys as they smoked their pipes and posed for pictures, and then we went to work with Alida and her girls. Alida even had a few lady bugs land on her which traditionally is supposed to be good luck! When it came time for the ceremony, you could see the emotion in John’s face as he watched Alida walked toward him. They exchanged vows and assembled a rustic cross before being pronounced man and wife. As Alida and John walked down the aisle, their families and friends tossed paper airplanes in the air as a way to remember John’s father. And then—after the entire bridal party exited—they prayed together.
After bridal party photos and photos of Alida and John, they were introduced and went right into first dances. I was literally wiping away tears as I was photographing the first dances. You could see the look of pride in Alida’s father’s face, and the bittersweet emotion that passed between John and his mother as I’m sure they were remembering his father.
John and Alida are truly inspiring…for their perseverance, their faith and their commitment to one another. I am so thankful that God had our paths crossed and I was able to capture this special time for them. I consider it an honor. John and Alida—may you days be filled with sunshine and blessings…thank you so much for your service to our country. You will both always be special to me.
Venue: 9 Oaks Farm
Wedding Coordinator: Jessica Boulter
Photographer: Audrey Herron Photography
Second Photographer: Kristal Whitley
Videographer: Russ Feltman Films
Florals: Flowers by On
Cake: The Posh Cakery
Caterers: Classic City Chef
Hair and Make-up: Kayla Walters
