I had the privilege of traveling to Jupiter, Florida to capture Jenna and Jesse’s special day. It was so much fun working with them and their two little ones from the very beginning.
I started out the day photographing way out in Loxahatchee, at Jenna’s parent’s home, where all of the ladies were getting ready. Hair and makeup, which can often be a stressful time for some ladies, was filled with calmness and joy. The ladies had the cutest matching robes to make for some beautiful photos. They made sure to pop a bottle of champagne for mimosas before they changed into their gowns, giggling and telling stories and even took some photos with the family dog.
The girls looked flawless and we all headed to Riverbend Park in Jupiter. This tropical park is 666 acres and is split by the Loxahatchee River. It features 10 miles of hiking/biking trails, 7 miles of equestrian trails and 5 miles of canoeing and kayaking trails! The park in itself was so beautiful and photo worthy! Jenna and her dad had an emotional first look as he arrived.
I took photos of Jesse and the groomsmen while Jenna hid in anticipation for the big moment. The guests all took their seats and the bridesmaids and groomsmen walked down the aisle, following the oldest son, pulling the youngest in a wagon — it was the most adorable thing! Finally came the moment everyone was waiting for: a stunning Jenna escorted by her father, carrying her beautiful bouquet of roses.
Jenna and Jesse participated in the American Indian blanket-unity ceremony tradition. The blanket they were wrapped in symbolizes the comfort and love they bring each other, as well as peace and happiness. As they said their vows, I couldn’t think of a more beautiful spot to become man and wife. The big, beautiful Live Oak trees as their backdrop and the light spilling through the branches to illuminate the newlyweds!
Once the ceremony was finished, we took photos with all of their family members, followed by the bridal party. We finished at Riverbend Park with an intimate session in the forest with Spanish Moss hanging down around the couple. Jenna and Jesse did some dancing to keep moving to avoid the massive quantity of mosquitoes that came after us—you wouldn’t have guessed it from the smiles they share in their photos! We made a quick escape and headed to the reception venue.
The reception was held at the Jupiter Civic Center. This one-of-a-kind venue sits on a private section of Jupiter Beach. It has a rustic feel, but boasts open windows to have the ocean around you even when you’re enjoying dinner!
Everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner, followed by dancing. I always learn so much about a couple while capturing the wedding day. I learned that Jenna was a dancer for all of childhood and they left me in amazement with their choreographed dance! The kids were working up a sweat and having so much fun dancing. The DJ was great with getting everyone out on the dance floor and even assisted in creating a super fun photo where he had me stand up on top of his speaker! 😉
I’m so happy to have been able to share Jenna and Jesse’s special day during their Florida elopement, and wish them a lifetime of happiness together.