Courtney and Patrick were married at a small and intimate Pensacola Beach wedding ceremony before sunset with their closest family members on June 20, 2016. 

Courtney and Patrick met at a music festival camp. 10 years later, they found themselves at a beautiful Pensacola Beach house preparing for their wedding day.

There’s something so pure about small family weddings. Courtney and Patrick chose to celebrate their marriage with 18 of their family members in a ceremony unlike any I’ve ever photographed before. It was truly about two families joining together.

It as a small wedding but these two didn’t skimp on the details. Courtney wore a gorgeous head piece to complement her dress and simple elegant jewelry.

The family went down to the beach to prepare for the ceremony, as Courtney reached the end of the board walk, Patrick turned around to see her. Patrick, you win the prize for best reaction to a first look of the bride, for sure!

The family stood in a circle with the bride and groom between two beautiful decorated shepherds hooks. Patrick’s sister performed the ceremony, standing by their side. Lots of thought went in to making this a family affair.

Courtney’s sister did a reading – a song from the music camp they met at.

Before the exchanging of rings, The family did a ring warming, passing the rings around the circle and wishing the happy couple the best for the future.

Their vows were true to them – filled with beautiful promises and adorable digs. Their vows were a clear indication of who these two are together in love, but also as best friends. 

We did portraits of them until there was literally no light left – one of my favorite things to do, really. As the sun set, we headed back to the house and watched the full moon rise from the rooftop deck. They danced, they laughed. As the light faded away, the two had a quiet moment, away from the family and festivities, to just enjoy each other.

Thank you both for allowing me to document such a special day for you. It was truly an honor, and I’m thrilled to have met you.