Cooper Chapel Wedding * Katie & Russell

Katie and Russell were married in an intimate ceremony at Cooper Chapel in Northwest Arkansas this July. They had the sweetest first look on the trails outside the chapel before their wedding ceremony, and Russell’s reaction to seeing his beautiful bride for the first time was so emotional. I love first looks. It is such a special moment between just the bride and groom. And while some people may feel it can alter they emotion of walking down the aisle to each other, I think every wedding photographer will tell you that it’s usually even more emotional when it’s just the two of you. So many people are more apt to share their emotions when they aren’t in front of an audience. It can calm nerves and ease fears of standing in front of 100 or more of your family and friends. First looks are such a sweet moment I always feel so privileged to be a part of.

I’ve photographed so many lovely weddings over the years, and one thing that really impressed me most about Katie and Russell was their unwavering focus on what was most important on their wedding day- their love for each other. There was no stress about material things, plans, or preconceived ideas. There was a singular focus on keeping perspective of what they were truly there for. To become husband and wife. And it was really heartwarming to see.

And you must check out Katie’s mad skills at creating her own bridal bouquet! This DIY bridal bouquet was so stunning!