If you ask me, Courtney & Leif's wedding day was perfect from the beginning to the very end. I'm usually a huge fan of texture and lace on wedding dresses but from the very moment I saw Courtney's wedding gown I knew it was going to be just the right dress for her. Courtney's something blue, those adorable shoes, complimented the dress in all the right ways.

I like the trend of the bride & bridesmaids in robes during the getting ready process but I really LOVE this idea of the ladies in monogrammed denim button ups. I'm positive they will all wear these again!

When you have 5 bridesmaids, it can be a hectic morning during hair and makeup. I love to steal my bride's away from their entourage and only bring the Maid of Honor and the bride's mom when it's time to put the wedding dress on. Not only did this give Courtney a moment to take in the moment but also to show off her full wedding look to her ladies afterwards.

In a hotel not too far away, Leif began to get ready with his groomsmen. He was a bit more serious than I had seen him in the past. To be honest, this is just how I like to see the grooms, taking in the gravity of the day and being anxious to see their blushing bride.

Courtney and her bridesmaids were ready first so we headed over to their venue, The Crossing at Hollar Mill, to grab some pictures before the ceremony.

After the ladies were hidden away, it was time for the boys to step into the spotlight. After the serious shots I let them goof off a little. & I decided to share those images, because I mean they're way more fun!

Courtney wrote a letter to Leif for him to read just before the wedding ceremony was to begin and I can't say enough about how I love his raw, honest feelings as he is ready the letter form his bride to be!

This was my first time photographing a wedding at the Crossing at Hollar Mill in Hickory, NC. I love going to new venues and letting my artistic freedom flow. I especially love indoor venues that allow ample natural light to flow but also have amazing outdoor spots for portraits and formals. This venue hit all the check marks.

The ceremony was short and sweet. Courtney is very close to her mom so she walked Courtney down the aisle. (Don't tell my mom, she's been begging to do this forever!) Leif was truly excited and overjoyed when he saw his bride in her wedding dress for the first time as she walked up the aisle.

As the ceremony finished I whisked the family and bridal party just outside of the venue for portraits. The sun was lowering and the lighting was absolutely perfect. We started with a few pictures of Leif & Courtney with those that matter most, their family.

Next it was time for wedding party portraits. Who knew the whole wedding party could turn into models with a little breeze and backlighting.

As much fun as I had with the wedding party, which was a lot, it was time for my favorite portraits of the night, the bride & groom! I can't say enough about how much I LOVE these portraits! Courtney you are a natural girlfriend and Leif you look so dapper! You two will make beautiful babies & I can't wait to photograph them. =)

When you have both an amazing veil and wind, you use it to your advantage!

From the moment Courtney saw the train tracks she was dying to take pictures on them. I convinced her not to do the bridal party pictures on them but instead wait for pictures with Leif. I'm sure she will agree, it was well worth the wait!

Let me introduce for the first time as husband and wife, Courtney & Leif Demmink!

When you are raised by a single mom, she deserves extra love and attention on your wedding day. This special moment of Courtney's dance with her mother had everyone emotional. Afterwards, Leif kept the emotions running deep when he danced with his mom. They are both very proud of you!

If you know me at all, you know I'm a HUGE dessert person. I feel like every meal needs dessert, even breakfast. So when I saw Courtney & Leif's dessert table I was in heaven. There were cookies and cupcakes and brownies!

The night was full of love and laughter, dancing and even a little karaoke.

Some of Leif's best friends began to serenade him with both song and questionable dance moves. So afterwards, it was only fair that the ladies had a turn. But, I have to say in the end, the boys stole the show!