Michelle and Brian’s Magical Forest Wedding at RT Lodge
A sure-fire sign that your bride is a walking green flag? When we told Michelle the forecast predicted rain all day, she simply said, “I kind of love that it’s raining!” 🥹 That’s exactly the kind of person she is… calm, joyful, and embracing what she can’t control.
We still wanted their photos to be amazing, so we followed the timeline as closely as possible and made small adjustments when needed. Luckily, RT Lodge provided plenty of indoor portrait spots. The rain threatened their outdoor forest ceremony, which was a major reason they came from NYC to get married in Tennessee… but against all odds, the sky cleared! They were able to do portraits outside, and their original ceremony plans went forward. 🥹
A Cozy, Magical Forest Ceremony
Their forest ceremony was intimate and magical. Guests snuggled up in blankets while a bluegrass trio plucked out folk songs. The sun set as Michelle and Brian exchanged vows and performed a traditional hand-fasting with a cord shipped from Scotland. Everyone walked back to the lodge together, glowing warmly against the chilly twilight. RT Lodge made the evening perfect with lit fireplaces, hot apple cider, and one of the best charcuterie spreads and dinners we’ve ever had. (Portugal may still be dreaming about the pickled green tomatoes!)
Celebration and Dancing
After dinner, the party really began. Guests danced the night away to the incredible band, The Business. Late-night snacks of homemade ice cream sandwiches and beignets were served on the dance floor (exactly what you’d expect from these two fellow foodies)
We can’t say enough good things about Michelle, Brian, their families, and their wedding. They had the party of the century in the middle of the woods with all the people they love most. Documenting this day at RT Lodge was an absolute joy. Enjoy some of our favorite images!
Photography & Video Shelley & Portugal (that’s us!) | Venue, Catering, Accomodations RT Lodge | Hair & Makeup The Effortless Beauty Co. | Bride’s Dress Elizabeth Johns Couture | Florals Colby West Design | Wedding Cake Caitlyn Cox | Paper Goods The Happy Envelope | Rentals All Occasions Party Rentals | Reception Tent Sperry Tents | Officiant Rev. Jill Dillner | Reception Band (via East Coast Entertainment) The Business | Bluegrass Trio (via East Coast Entertainment) Mandocyn
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