Garvan Woodland Gardens Wedding Photos | Melissa and Etienne
Melissa and Etienne’s wedding could not have been any more fun to be at. You had a beautiful couple, a gorgeous setting and the friendliest group of French people I’ve ever been around. The day started at Garvan Woodland Gardens which is a location I’ve googled and had wanted to photograph but had never had the opportunity before. I made a point to arrive extra early to scout the grounds and map out where we would shoot and what angles would work best. After I had a pretty clear plan I went to the bridal cottage where Melissa was getting ready. As we had discussed she would finish getting ready while I took her dress/shoes to photograph them on their own. I found
Anthony Chapel‘s architecture to be the perfect backdrop for her dress. And because we were in the woods I wanted that feel for her shoes as well. My thought process is that people choose venues, churches, and locations because they put thought into the look they wanted, so it’s always good to showcase that.
After the details were done I went back to the bridal room where Melissa was finishing up. Her girls and her mother helped her get in her dress and do all the finishing touches before we headed to the ceremony site where she would see Etienne for the very first time. One of the most precious moments of the day was when Melissa was walking through the doors, Etienne’s eyes watered up and he started getting that nervous excitement. He was rubbing his hands with the biggest smile on his face and you could see he wanted to run down and grab his bride. It was a beautiful ceremony that followed. After Melissa and Etienne exchanged vows we took them outside where all their guests were waiting for them with bubbles to greet the new Mr. and Mrs. Mirgaine.
We had a few moments to take some photos with their bridal party (who were all awesome, btw), and a few more with Melissa and Etienne before heading over to
The Royal Ridge for their cocktail hour and reception. When we got there, everything was set out beautifully just as Melissa had described so while Melissa and Etienne cooled off and refreshed themselves I took a moment to photograph all the carefully displayed details. But of course with such a beautiful scenery, it would had been a shame not to do more photos there. We walked around the property while the sun was going down and on our way back to the reception room we caught the most beautiful sunset. It really was a wonderful way to end their photo session…until their night shot.
As far as the reception, there’s not much I could say but: I was warned. French people know how to party! This has got to be one of the funnest group I’ve had the pleasure of photographing. From impromptu dance numbers to games I had never heard of before, it was just one fun activity after another. The music was great, everyone was having a blast. Before I left I wanted to get a night photo of Melissa and Etienne. I had spotted a pool/deck area where I knew if it was dark enough I’d be able to get some stars in the shot. Only problem was that it was far too bright with all the lamps on. That’s where Darrell stepped in and shut off every lamp outside so Melissa and Etienne could have their night photo. Now that’s teamwork!
Melissa and Etienne: you deserve all the happiness in the world! You came all the way to Little Rock from France to find true love and it was an honor to be there with you guys. Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Mirgaine!!
