On the weekend of June 9, The Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, WV was the setting for one of the loveliest destination weddings to occur anywhere in the country. Miss Kate Roeder and Mr. Taylor Russell of Houston, TX were joined by over one hundred friends and family members to celebrate their marriage and to enjoy the many amenities of America’s Resort. Festivities kicked off with the anniversary party held in honor of Kate’s parents, Dr. Loddie and Rae Ann Roeder. Weather was flawless as guests mingled both indoors and outdoors and a wonderful mood was set for the upcoming days’ events. Kate and Taylor are two of the most beautiful people whom I have had the honor of photographing and their guests wre full of wonderful southern hospitality and friendliness!
The following day was just plain fun – Kate and her ladies enjoyed spa time and a relaxed poolside luncheon while Taylor and his gang hit the golf course. I LOVE that this event involves so much more than just your standard wedding day shots – the golf images are some of my favorites and I feel like everything ties in perfectly to complement the wedding itself. Howard’s Lodge was the setting for rehearsal dinner, also known as “Dinner the Night Before” – Taylor’s mother put her amazing artistic skills to work designing this event and I thoroughly enjoyed photographing it! So often when one thinks of The Greenbrier, images of the grand white buildings, green lawns, and vibrant gardens come first to mind – Howard’s Lodge is a delightful rustic slice of the resort, full of understated charm, a bit off of the beaten path.
Lets just take a moment to recognize the absolute brilliance of Kate’s dress: WOW. I have documented weddings now for a little over 11 years, and it is truly one of the most unique and stunning designs that I will ever hope to see! And the shoes were just a blast to shoot! After preparations, Kate and Taylor enjoyed a first look in the North Parlor, surrounded by their families. Kate’s expression as she walks through the door for the first time is priceless! Following some family portrait time, we all headed over to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church for the ceremony. I will never be able to pay enough compliments to this church – it is aesthetically beautiful and so warm and inviting as well. As their friends and family looked on, Kate and Taylor exchanged vows and became husband and wife, officially cementing their love which began as students at Louisiana State University.
The reception was the perfect mix of classic Greenbrier elegance mixed with a great party vibe – check out the super fun props that Kate brought along from Texas – love these shots!!! Candid photos ops never lacked throughout the course of the evening and everywhere I turned, people were truly having a blast. The photo of Dr. Roeder holding up his toast is my favorite father-of-the-bride shot of my entire career!
I want to wish Kate and Taylor a long lifetime of happiness, love, fun travels, and all of the good “stuff” – as well as the friends and family members who were all around wonderful the entire weekend! A big thanks to everyone for being such a crucial part of documenting every little detail, laugh, and hug.
xoxoxo
Melissa
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