Sunday’s celebration of Nico and Giuliana was truly beautiful…not only because of the location, the flowers, and the stunning bride, but because you could truly feel the presence of God throughout their day, and the love they shared with one another.
Giuliana and Nico met when Nico’s father planted a church in Lawrenceville. After dating, Nico popped the question one cool, rainy afternoon at the State Botanical Gardens in Athens. When I first spoke with Giuliana, it struck me how incredible genuine she was. This beautiful lady is full of joy, kindness, laughter, and life. Nico is a little quieter, but he is an absolute gentleman, kind-hearted and crazy about Giuliana.
Their day began out at Nico’s mother’s house in Winder. I met the girls there to grab some shots of them getting ready. When I walked into the master bathroom where several girls were applying mascara and curling hair, I giggled at the sight of two of the bridesmaids, legs tucked up, in the large garden tub working on their make-up…I agreed with them that the light was great in that spot!
At the venue, the Thompson House and Gardens, which is located in Bogart, Georgia, I began working on Giuliana’s detailed shots. Her colors went together beautifully and complemented their invitation and their favors of tiny succulent plants. Giuliana dressed upstairs in the bridal suite, and her mother helped pin in her cathedral length veil. Nico’s mother then appeared and the three women prayed over Nico, Giuliana and the day to come. We shot family portraits, including a special three generation portrait of Giuliana, her mother and her Abuela outside on the porch. Giuliana then had a reveal with her sweet bridesmaids. We finished her bridal portraits just in time for Nico to arrive, and tucked her away and out of sight upstairs while we worked with the guys.
Just before the ceremony, Nico and Giuliana shared a first touch and a sweet prayer followed by some private vows. The ceremony details were gorgeous—burgundy, green and white and blush floral arrangements adorned the bright and airy room. Giuliana was escorted down the aisle by both of her parents, and Nico wiped away a tear when he saw his beautiful bride.
After a God-centered ceremony performed by Nico’s father, they sealed their vows with a kiss and processed back down the aisle as man and wife!
We worked with the bridal party, the family, and then Nico and Giuliana for their portraits. They were troopers…the high was in the 90’s and it was hot but neither of them complained! They were all smiles and just enjoyed being together.
At the reception, they shared their first dance followed by dinner, cake-cutting and then Giuliana danced with her mother, and then her father to “Dancing Queen” before we slipped outside for a few fun night shots in the garden.
They ended their celebration with a sparkler send-off. It was truly a joyous day. At the end of the day, Sammy handed me a note from Giuliana and Nico—and when I got home I sat in my driveway and read it and teared up. Despite all they had going on in this busy season of wedding planning, they took the time to write me a note expressing their appreciation…and that meant more to me than I can express. I absolutely love this sweet couple…it was a privilege for me to capture these memories for them. During the toasts, Esau and Laurie talked about their desire to start a coffee shop ministry. I know they will succeed, because I know God’s blessing is on this sweet couple. Their heart for Jesus, for their family and for one another is a shining example of what it looks like to walk in Fatih. Nico and Giuliana—I can’t wait to come visit your coffee shop one day…you two are very dear to me and I wish you every blessing on your marriage as you begin this awesome new chapter in your lives!
Venue: The Thompson House and Gardens
Wedding Coordinator: Sammy Kesner, Jackson and June Designs
Photographer: Audrey Herron Photography
Second Photographer: Diana Bello, Diano Bello Studios
Cake: Classic City Confections
Caterer: Classic City Chef
Florals: Flowers by On, owner of the venue
Videographer: Rockford Basto
