Well, I’m hanging out at home tonight, instead of church since my littlest man spiked an icky fever this afternoon. As luck would have it, I’m right in the middle of trying to catch up from the last time  all 4 of them got sick! I’m praying this is a short lived cold!

In the midst of the million session catch up marathon, I wanted to share an image I just opened up on my computer to edit. When I saw it, my heart melted! How cute is this little guy? Hope it brings a smile to your face, just as it has done to mine this evening!

More posts to come…when I’m officially caught up!

You may remember Jenn and Josh from their awesome engagement session back in my hometown. They were so great in front of the camera that day and as I talked with them about the plans for their wedding, I knew it was going to be a wonderful celebration.

I met up with the beautiful bride at Kerry Sue’s Salon. Lovin the checkered floor!

While Jenn continued to get ready, I stole her dress for a few moments. You see, Jenn had based her wedding decor off of a Vera Bradley design called Hope Garden and Cat’s on Main, just one block over from the Salon, is the local place to be if you want to pick out something Vera! I couldn’t resist asking if we could use their incredible store for a cool dress image. Thank you Mrs. Elizabeth for providing such a great backdrop for Jenn’s stunning gown!

After Jenn slipped into her gown, we headed back out to Main Street. I love that Jenn chose to wear her boots for these images! They added such personality. 

Isn’t she stunning?

Before heading to the church, we stopped at a piece of property that was originally Jenn’s great, great grandparents. She requested this image, which is clearly one of my faves from the day!

Gorgeous.

First bride I’ve ever shot with a gun. (No pun intended!) 

Next it was on to the church. New Hope Baptist is actually the church I grew up in, so it’s always a treat to visit and recall the eternal impact the people there had on my life. The sky was perfect for this image!

Jenn slipped into her heels for the ceremony.

Beautiful flowers lined the pews.

Each of the bridesmaids wore these Vera Bradley necklaces, which were gifts from the bride. The center bead is the Hope Garden pattern.

An excited bride for sure, waiting to enter the sanctuary.

New Hope has recently remodeled and there is now a stunning staircase, which brides are choosing to walk down for their grand entrance. I thought the lighting was breathtaking as Jenn made her way to her father at the bottom.

The kiss!

This is probably my favorite image of the groom from the entire day! After the ceremony, I always seem to notice the groom turning the ring around on his finger. In this case, I was shooting Jenn with her parents, when I noticed Josh doing the same thing. Getting used to the ring, fiddling with it, staring at it- completely unaware of anything else. I had to document that moment and of course, I also had to share it with you!

‘The newlyweds…

Favorite couple shot from the day!

Stunning.

I couldn’t leave out a few ring images.

The introduction of the bride and groom at the reception. Another favorite from the day.

First dance, with some yummy golden light.

I love this one of Jenn and her dad dancing, as her mom and brother look on.

The cupcake cake, with flowers reminiscent of those in the Hope Garden pattern. 

Toast time!

Slickwilly, the band that keeps everyone on their feet! 

My favorite dancing picture. Ever!

And, to close out the post, one more of the bride and groom.

Thanks Josh and Jenn for trusting me to capture your special day. May peace and happiness fill your marriage.

Don’t forget if you view this post and leave a comment on the blog by May 3rd, the new Mr. and Mrs. will benefit! For 25 comments, they’ll receive a free 8×10, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 11×14!

Jenn’s Dress: Charlotte Bridal Boutique,  Flowers: Gail Burnett; Cake: Publix Bakery; Ceremony: New Hope Baptist Church; Reception: Home of the Parents’ of the Bride

I met up with Melissa and Wakefield (isn’t that a cool name?!) in Plant City for their engagement session. I actually met the bride to be when we first moved to the area and she joined a Bible Study I was leading, Gift Wrapped By God. It had been awhile since I had been in touch with her, so this was a sweet reunion and a wonderful time to document the love these two have for one another.

Lovin the emotion in this one!

Melissa was radiant!

Old walls and allies can be little gems!

We found this adorable little cafe downtown…

as well as a car show!

Then it was off to find some train tracks and a field. We drove and drove, but finally came upon some perfect locations! During our excursion, Wakefield asked me, “If there was one piece of advice you could give Melissa about marriage, what would it be?” I answered, to respect your husband. In fact, I recently read an awesome book based off of Ephesians 5:33. We had a great discussion while we scoped out some spots to shoot and I realized that since many of my clients know my husband is the director of the Baptist Collegiate Ministries at USF, I often get lots of questions during my sessions about marriage and relationships. I usually share from my heart and then refer couples to some suggested reads. So, with all that said- I’m going to be adding a resource page on my blog for engaged couples, where I’ll list some great finds that we’ve discovered that will help prepare you for marriage.

Ok- now on to the pics!!

Without a doubt, one of my favorites! 

Remember… I said she was radiant! Look at that smile! Ah, love! 

Yes, they braved the wild flowers (maybe they’re weeds), and it was so worth it! 

Our last minute discovery was this awesome field. ..more favorites!! Yep, everyone of these below!! 

My goodness! Isn’t she gorgeous?

Melissa really wanted to release the balloons. They decided on two. 

Melissa and Wakefield, thanks for exploring the wild country with me! It was an awesome adventure!

I’m so looking forward to your wedding!

Don’t forget to leave some love (post a comment)! For 25 comments, Melissa and Wakefield will  receive a free 5×7, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 8×10!

Kamay and Kenny had a lovely day planned for their wedding; and after their Ybor engagement session, I was so excited to spend time capturing more of their love for one another. Thank you Ciera for connecting me with this awesome couple!

Kamay’s dress and shoes were stunning.

I love this one of the girls hanging out . They were such a fun bunch!

The make-up artist getting ready.

This one of Kamay and her mom is just so sweet!

The gorgeous bride.

We could see the ceremony venue from the hotel window. Kamay kept an eye on things while she got ready.

If you’ve followed the blog for very long, you know how much I love ring shots! Check out this one- maybe my new favorite.

These are fun too…

Time to get ready!

Kenny has some serious style!

Groom favorite!

A tear perhaps, as Kenny spots his lovely bride for the first time?

Such a beautiful location on a bright and sunny day!

During the ceremony, Kamay and Kenny participated in a unique tradition, called the Tasting of the Four Elements. This ritual dramatizes the “Traditional” promise to love “for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.” The four elements used are lemon, vinegar, cayenne pepper, and honey which represent the sour, the bitter, the hot, and the sweet times of marriage. It was truly a powerful illustration of the hard work that marriage takes, as well as the many blessings you’ll receive from it when you have a strong foundation. 

Kenny and Kamay had the best expressions during their ceremony! This is right after they were given permission to kiss! Then, they danced down the aisle as husband and wife. It was truly a joyous celebration!

A few moments with the bridal party

Followed by a little couple time

Then off to the reception! I love the reflection in this image.

Teatro on Seventh in Ybor was the location for Kenny and Kamay’s reception. It was a gorgeous choice!

They had a beautiful cake. Check out the detail work in those sugar flowers! Wow!!

Kenny and Kamay’s first dance was so sweet. 

The guests had a great time on the dance floor as well!

I loved this one of Kamay dancing with her brother, while Kenny danced with his mom.

One more of the diamond, this time with a little something from the candy bar. Probably my favorite ring shot from the day.

Congratulations Kamay and Kenny! Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day. It was an honor to be there, to celebrate and to watch as your love spoke volumes to all around. May God bless your marriage with many years of happiness!

Don’t forget if you view this post and leave a comment on the blog by April 23rd, the new Mr. and Mrs. will benefit! For 25 comments, they’ll receive a free 8×10, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 11×14!

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Kamay’s Dress: David’s Bridal Collection, Tuxes: Calvin Klein for Men’s Wearhouse; Flowers: Flowers by Yvonne; Cake: L’Artisan Cake Atelier; Ceremony: Tampa Convention Center; Reception: Teatro on 7th

Martin is one awesome senior, I could tell from the moment I met him.  As a graduate of the great Florida State University, the only downfall was that he came out sporting a Gator shirt! All kidding aside, when Martin stepped in front of the camera it was apparent this session was going to ROCK!

I met up with him at his house, which sits right on the water. It was an incredible location! Here are a few of my favorites from our morning together.

The crazy wind was perfect for this image!

Seriously, can you imagine the water right outside your back door?

I love this image of Martin in his suit. There is something so symbolic about him standing there, the future awaiting him while the swings seem to represent the childhood that he’s leaving. Graduation is such an exciting time!

When I drove into Martin’s neighborhood, I noticed a great field. When he told me he loved playing the drums- there was only one thing to do! I’m glad he didn’t think I was too nuts! And… I got a free concert! Can’t beat that!

Seriously- I think Martin could pull off a modeling career.

Lovin’ these rockin’ black and whites!

Congratulations Martin on your graduation! Thanks for hangin’ with me and being willing up for all my crazy ideas. You were a great sport and I pray these images have captured this incredibly exciting time in your life. Blessings for a future full of success and joy!

Don’t forget to check out Martin’s slideshow below and remember, for 25 comments, Martin (or Martin’s Mom!!) will  receive a free 5×7,  and for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 8×10!

Finally, are you a fan of Annie Agarwal Photography on Facebook? If not, join now!

I had the honor of capturing Rachel and Dan’s wedding through the referral of another bride that I shot in Orlando. It’s always so much fun to get together with friends of clients and of course to often have the opportunity to catch up with them since their wedding day as well. Thanks Leah (and Sarah, who referred Leah- ha!) for sending Rachel my way!

Dan and Rachel chose a charming location to tie the knot: Highland Manor. It was quite simply the perfect setting for their celebration.  

A few detail shots to start off their long awaited post!

I loved the details in this venue almost as much as I did the dress and the shoes!

The beautiful bride getting ready…

Lovin those eyelashes! Ladies, this is a great touch for your wedding day if you want to add some extra drama. (They also look awesome in the pictures too!!)

Couldn’t leave out the bridal party getting ready as well!

I adored the placement of this mirror, right by the blue tiled fireplace. When I saw Rachel looking at herself in her gown, I couldn’t resist! It’s one of my favorite images from the day.

As is this one!

Wait- and this one!

What’s a modern bride to do while she waits to walk down the aisle? Update her Facebook status of course!

Here’s that mirror again- this time, check out those rockin’ bridesmaids’ shoes!

A few more details. This time of the lovely bouquet. 

Right beside the house at Highland Manor is this charming chapel, where Rachel and Dan decided to have their ceremony. So simple, but so very beautiful!

These next 2 images happened seconds after the ceremony, when the bridal party was still making their way down the aisle. I liked them so much, I just had to share.

Here they are all together!

Yep, the bridesmaids wanted a jumping picture. I love the way it turned out. 

The stylish guys. 

And of course, the newlyweds!

Love these next few for sure!

Reception time!

Some of the table details. 

Rachel and Dan’s first dance.

Since they had an early wedding, the couple decided on a brunch for the reception. What a great idea! Complete with an omelet and pasta bar, guests enjoyed made to order specialties, along with yummy goodies like these too! 

I thought the emotion was so sweet in this image!

There was something so great about the glasses at this wedding! I captured the first one. My awesome second shooter (and cousin) Sarah captured the second.

And you know me- I always love a little time to play with the wedding rings!

Rachel and Dan gave each of their guests this cute little tin filled with candy. It seemed like the perfect spot to park their rings for a few shots as well!

Dancing and boy did they dance! 

Quite possibly my favorite bouquet toss picture of all time! Rachel was counting down!

The grand exit!

Congrats Rachel and Dan! Thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of your special day. May God bless you with many, many years of happiness as you embark on this journey together.

P.S. Don’t forget if you view this post and leave a comment on the blog, the new Mr. and Mrs. will benefit! For 25 comments, they’ll receive a free 8×10, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 11×14!

Ashley and Brian got married in Citrus Springs and my hubby and I left early in the morning to meet up with the beautiful bride at her grandmother’s salon! How fun to have your grandmother fix your hair for your wedding!

I love this one of Ashley’s mom watching… 3 generations in one image. 

The beautiful dress and accessories.

I love this image of Ashley’s mom helping her into the dress. It’s even more special when you hear the story! Ashley wanted to wear her mom’s gown, but in a unique way… she found a seamstress who took the original gown and created another masterpiece using all the original fabric and beading except for one small portion on the front.

This is a before and after of sorts! 

Ashley before the ceremony. 

While I was spending time with the girls, my hubby was hanging out with the guys. We had driven over to the location where they’d be and scoped out some fun photo opportunities. I knew Rahul was creative, but when I saw these I couldn’t have been more pleased! What a great, AWESOME second shooter! I love the symbolism of this image; as if Brian is just beginning a new journey, preparing to travel a new road. LOVE IT!

Rahul was able to draw out such genuine emotion!

These next two are my favorite groomsmen pictures of all time and my hubby took them!! I think he might be coming along a lot more often now!

Here’s another one of those happy surprises. I put the rings down on the sidewalk at Ashley’s house and noticed that the shadow nearly forms a heart. How sweet!

Getting ready for the ceremony. 

Ashley and her dad have such a sweet relationship. I think this image clearly shows their love for one another!

During the ceremony, Ashley and Brian had some of the most unique lighting I’ve ever seen. Most of the ceremony was nearly in the dark, with just a spotlight on them. Here’s one of them during a prayer that I just loved. 

Remember from their engagement session, there were some sweet little kisses on the cheek and some tender moments, as Ashley and Brian had committed to a relationship that honored God and kept them pure…. that’s why this single kiss symbolized so much! 

So from the beautiful sun flares, you’d never know that this was actually one of the coldest weddings I’ve ever shot! I’m not talking chilly, I’m talking FREEZING! By the time we packed up from our visit to this park, my fingers were literally numb and turning blue! It was insane. I have no idea how Ashley and her bridesmaids survived! 

You know you’ve been to a lot of receptions when you start hearing Beyonce’s Single Ladies in your dreams! Seriously! This picture just makes me start humming along all over again. 

Love the way they kept gazing at each other. 

One of my favorites of the newlyweds! Brian was talking to Ashley, whispering in her ear and this moment happened. I was lucky enough to have caught it!

This is my OFFICIAL favorite of Ashley and Brian. I would be getting this blown up for my living room!!

Reception time!

Special dances and a few details…

The bride and groom quickly changed into their TOMS during the reception. If you’ve never heard about this awesome company, you’ll want to check them out! This image comes just in time for “One Day Without Shoes,” which is tomorrow April 8th. Rahul and I have actually had the honor of hearing the founder of  TOMS speak live at a conference. Such a great business with a powerful message. Oh and engaged couples, they’ve even got some special shoes for you!

When a friend is overseas and you really want a picture with her on your wedding day, this is clearly what you should do!

A little fun on the dance floor! Check out the grandma pic- another favorite- she danced the night away!

[UPDATE] I’m not sure how this one didn’t make it into the original post!! I had to share this really cool detail though. One of the groomsmen created the bouquet that Ashley tossed… out of duct tape! Seriously! This might be the coolest thing I’ve ever seen. Warning: if you go this route, please through with caution, these petals aren’t as forgiving as the real deal. Awesome job Jacob! Interested in some for your own wedding- I have some connections. Just let me know!

Here’s one of those “the glasses are chiming again” moments. I love the way it feels like in the middle of all the celebration, they are totally alone!

The big exit! 

Thanks Ashley and Brian for inviting us to be a part of your special day. It was a joy getting to know your families and celebrating such a wonderful moment in your lives. May you continue to trust God to be the foundation of your marriage!

Blessings,

Annie

P.S. Don’t forget if you view this post and leave a comment on the blog, the new Mr. and Mrs. will benefit! For 25 comments, they’ll receive a free 8×10, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 11×14!