A Classic, Meaningful Wedding in the Heart of Central Texas
Abigail and Foster’s wedding day was slow and full of emotion, exactly the kind of day I love documenting. Set in San Saba, this intimate Texas wedding focused less on a strict timeline and more on meaningful moments: hugs with mom, just married giddiness, and space to actually feel the day unfold.
I about fell out of my chair when my sweet friends asked me to document their wedding. I was so excited to capture their love intentionally and witness all the meaningful celebration their day held! It did not disappoint.
Abigail and Foster wanted the day to be captured as it went on, with a few spots in the timeline for portraits. We were a great fit because my approach to wedding photography is mostly documentary, with gentle direction for natural portraits that you show your grandchildren.
Getting Ready at Abigail’s Childhood Home
One of my favorite aspects of the day was the relaxed, wonderful morning spent in Abigail’s childhood home getting ready to marry the love of her life. The memories hung on the walls felt tangible and wrapped Abigail and her bridal party in a warm hug as they giggled in anticipation for the day ahead.
There, we captured some bridal portraits, shared hugs with her bridal party and mom, and set up such a sweet first look with Abigail’s dad. It was a moment to breathe, remember the meaning of the day, and soak up all the emotion that comes with leaving your family to start a new one.
Intentional Friendships on Display
As we neared the start of the ceremony at San Saba Baptist Church, Abigal’s bridal party gathered around and prayed over her, the day, and Richardson’s future marriage together. The emotion was present and as grateful tears fell, it was yet another moment not built into the timeline that reflected the richness of the day and love that everyone felt.
Throughout the entire day, I witnessed not only laughter and fun, but true, intentional friendship. The love and support within this group was undeniable. If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: choose a bridal party made up of people who would give you the shirt off their back without hesitation.
Seeing His Bride
Foster anticipated this moment all day. As the music played and the nerves melted away, the emotion began to overflow. When the church doors opened and Abigail was revealed, he couldn’t hold it in.
It’s always refreshing to witness couples unapologetically letting emotions out during their wedding day. I mean, this is the biggest celebration of your relationship and love, how could you not? Let yourself feel and be in the moment. With documentary photography and a hands off approach, you get every moment to breathe it in and cherish it.
Ceremony Focused on Worship & Celebration
Abigail and Foster began their ceremony with worship, where every voice rang out in hymns. It was a beautiful song. Many guests and members of the bridal party sang their hearts out, worshipping God together as one voice. After the wedding day, Foster described this moment to me afterwards saying the reality of the moment “hit him deeply”.
The rest of the ceremony was centered on the gospel. When they were officially pronounced ‘husband and wife’ and shared a kiss, the excitement was evident.
Joyful Bride and Groom Portraits
As the sun dipped behind the plains of Central Texas, we stepped away for sunset portraits. The soft light and the pure joy between Abigail and Foster made documenting their connection effortless, romantic, and unforced.
After a few portraits, I gave them a few minutes alone to take it all in. While Abigail’s best friend bustled her dress, she held hands with her husband, savoring the moment.
A Grand Entrance where everyone was smiling
We transitioned to the second location for the reception as the sun was setting. Guests were chatting with warm hot chocolates in hand. They sat inside the warmly decorated hall and cheerfully awaited the bride and groom. Everyone was buzzing to see them, and when they entered, the joy was electric! One of my favorite photos of the day was when I followed behind them to the dance floor. Many guests cheered and watched them with genuine happiness written all over their faces.
Intentional Time With Guests
Once dinner was being served, Abigail and Foster made it their top priority to hug every guest that came to celebrate them and asked me to follow them around to capture it. The exciting squeals of joy, funny inside jokes, and compliments about the day were abundant.
Emotional Speeches (Not a Dry Eye in the Room!)
After dances, multiple people close to Abigail and Foster stood up to say wonderful, encouraging words about them and their relationship. The belly laughs, tears, and heartfelt words showed once again how meaningful their close relationships were.
Dancing like nobody was watching
With a curated playlist with their favorite party songs, Abigail and Foster led the charge to groove, boogie, and exit with a conga line!
An Excitable Exit
As sparklers were lit, the couple shared a private last dance before making their exit. The cheering from their onlookers felt more like a roar as they drove off as Mr. and Mrs. Richardson. Their people stayed until the very end to send them off! It was one of the most joyful exits I’ve documented.
Abigail and Foster’s wedding day was centered on connection. While they included a few posed portraits, their priority was a storytelling, emotional recollection of their day—and it was an honor to document it exactly as it unfolded.
If you’re planning an intimate wedding in Texas and want photography that feels honest, emotional, and unobtrusive, I’d love to connect. I archive love with intention, joy unstaged. Contact me here and let’s chat.
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