I thoroughly enjoy every opportunity I have to be able to follow and second shoot with the great Montana Dennis. I got to meet Derek and Hannah during my second wedding following Montana.
Derek and Hannah opted for a first look before the ceremony. This gave them an opportunity to reconnect prior to the ceremony and have some time together away from all of the hustle and bustle of the wedding day. After the first look, we took a short drive with the whole wedding party to a nearby beach.
I love seeing how each couple’s personality shines through with all of the details of the wedding. Derek and Hannah kept track of who was able to attend their wedding by asking everyone to sign a stone. They of course started the rock collection with their own names. They also made the ceremony feel more like a family reunion by having open seating for their guests, foregoing the tradition of separate sides for the groom and brides’ families.
Even though Derek and Hannah had already seen each other during the first look, the joy on her face said it all as she walked arm-in-arm with her father down the aisle towards Derek.
It is also always interesting to see which ceremony traditions the couple incorporates or if they make their own ceremony activities to further cement their relationship. Derek and Hannah made it a celebration of their love for each other, but also a celebration for their relationship with God by singing worship music, praying, and partaking in communion as their first act as a married couple.
After the ceremony, Derek and Hannah headed out for a quick walk on the beach before heading back to the hotel for the grand entrance. This gave them an opportunity to spend some time together as an official married couple.
It was such wonderful privilege to capture the special moments at this amazing couple’s wedding!
Matthew Nare Photography 