Tonya and Jon met at West Virginia University during their time as college students. Who knew that one day it would lead them to Florida, standing under oak trees hundreds of years old. A tiny babe growing in Tonya’s belly and shiny new rings on their fourth fingers as they said I do. Tonya and Jon’s Washington Oaks State Park wedding was absolutely gorgeous.
It was one of those rare perfect weather days in Florida where the threat of rain didn’t haunt us all day and it wasn’t 100 degrees outside. The Oaks at the state park always provide a stunning backdrop for an intimate wedding and they keep it shady and cool no matter the time of day. The ceremony was short and sweet, perfect for a small wedding and allowed us plenty of time for portraits throughout the park and even at the beach where the lighting wasΒ perfect. We decided to take advantage of it and also took maternity portraits of Tonya, because how could we not?!
Afterward, the bride and groom rented a private residence near Washington Oaks and hosted a small reception with their family and friends. Which is where things got hilarious when someone broke out a long-standing family tradition. As it turns out,Β a long time ago a cousin procured a real ball and chain from a museum he worked at. Its since been passed down to all of the men in their family on their wedding day. The last cousin actually had it for 10 years before Tonya and Jon tied the knot so it could be passed on to him. During the reception, the family cheekily put the ball and chain on him. And I LOVED every second!
Tonya and Jon were so sweet and I can’t wait for baby Owen to make his arrival into the world so I can photograph his newborn photos. One of the things I love about my job is that I get to be there from the very beginning of a families love story. I love photographing their wedding and then photographing their newborn photos. So basically, you’re stuck with me for LIFE! HA π
Thank you, Tonya and Jon, for choosing me to be your wedding photographer, I’ll see you (and baby Owen!) soon! π
Venue:Β Washington Oaks Gardens State ParkΒ | Florist:Β A Fantasy In FlowersΒ | Catering:Β MOJO Old City BBQΒ | Cake and Cupcakes:Β The Sweet City CupcakesΒ | Harpest:Β My Gentle HarpΒ | Wedding Dress:Β David’s Bridal
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