Intimate Wedding in Hot Springs | Morgan & Nate

I (Jenna) met Morgan when I was in college. We were both majoring in Communications, and pretty quickly became best friends. We spent our senior year pretty much inseparable - and she has remained one of my closest friends ever since. We used to dream about our wedding days - and I remember her telling me how she wanted hers to be small and intimate - a gathering of only her closest friends and family there to support her. 

She called me in March and let me know that she thought Nate - her boyfriend at the time, was about to propose. Morgan is the most energetic, fun, loving person and Nate is a perfect match for her energy. I was so stoked they wanted to marry each other - and even more honored that she wanted Mark and I to capture their day. They knew they wanted the day to be small and intimate - and made plans for October, in Hot Springs, AK. There is a BEAUTIFUL chapel there - made of mostly glass - that really spoke to them. 

They spent their wedding day how everyone should - relaxing and having fun. Morgan and her girls rented out an Airbnb for the weekend, and spent the morning cooking breakfast together, hanging out by the river, and popping champagne. Morgan took time that morning to have a few moments to herself on the deck, writing out her vows and reading some sweet letters written to her by Nate and by her mom. The boys spent their morning playing disc golf, and then got ready at a separate Airbnb. 

They had a really sweet first look together - and were so giddy for the rest of the day as we hung out, took photos, and made our way to the chapel. Their ceremony happened as the sun set. They worshipped together, took communion with each and every guest, and were wed as their people cheered them on. 

Their reception was one of my dream setups! At the farmers market in Hot Springs, it was one long table with beautiful greenery down the middle. Very simple, but beautiful. We all ate together, and then watched them cut their cake and pour champagne. Each of their parents gave a toast, and we all circled around them for their first dance as husband and wife. It was such a simple reception, but so intentional. They didn’t need all the fanfare of bouquet tosses or grand entrances - they wanted a dinner with their guests, to dance together - and that was it. 

I cannot recommend an intimate wedding enough. We have found much more meaning in every moment when our couples keep their guest lists small. They can spend intentional time with people that can speak to their relationship - rather than a huge gathering with people they don’t even know. This was an incredible day, with time well spent and people that love each other! It was such a blessing to watch my best friend marry her person - and even more exciting to be the one that captures it for them. 

Venue: Garvan Gardens