Lauren and David’s Mauve Summer Wedding // St. Mary’s Church & The Bowden, Keller Texas

It’s hard to believe a day we have been anticipating for months has come and passed. We’ve all been looking forward to Lauren and David’s wedding day ever since we were told at her sister’s wedding that we would be photographing it too; at the time, they weren’t engaged so we just smiled and said, we’ll see. 

Going into the wedding day, I always think of what I’m most excited about for that wedding, but also what could pose a challenge during the day–all weddings have a challenge of some kind and you guys know I like to go into the wedding day prepared as possible so everyone has a great experience. 

Thankfully, I was already very familiar with the reception venue from capturing Lauren’s bridals there (coming soon!), and we had the chillest bride and groom to work with in David and Lauren. Logistically, I knew I needed to be on my “A” game because we would be working with a large guest list and large wedding party, plus changing locations for the Egyptian Orthodox ceremony. I spent a lot of time prepping just for the ceremony so I would know what to expect and how to photograph it best. 

I knew the day would have loads of great details: the Bowden is a beautiful bright ballroom in Keller, and the florals from Deana Pueblo Weddings & Events never disappoint. I was especially looking forward to David having a mauve tux jacket–such a fun groom detail; plus we would get to see a past bride and groom since Alyson was Lauren’s Matron of Honor (it’s always a blast getting to work with families of past couples again).

Everyone was so pleasant and great to work with–we always have such great couples I really should stop being surprised that they’re friends were awesome too; so special shout out to ALL of the bridesmaids and groomsmen because I had all twenty-two of them doing rapid fire portraits in 94 degree weather and they were so attentive and kind that we were able to roll through all the portraits no problem.

The ceremony was truly an immersive experience, keeping me on my toes to balance documenting the ceremony and traditions while still being as discreet as possible. This was a Coptic Orthodox ceremony, filled with prayers and blessings over the couple. By the end of the ceremony, both Lauren and David exchanged rings, were covered in robes, and literally crowned. No one has ever looked more suited to sitting in a throne, wearing a crown, than Lauren.

After the ceremony, it was a fun ride on the party bus with Lauren and David, with the closest friends, all celebrating their marriage. A great start to an awesome reception filled with toasts from their fathers, and siblings, before everyone dived on the dance floor and never left until it was time to light the sparklers and go home.