bridal portraits

 

I just don't know what's more Hand Me Down Style than wearing my mother's wedding gown! I've told my mom for years that if I ever got married, I would wear her dress. My parents married in 1980, and they celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary on Sunday. Amazingly, my mom chose a classic dress and mantilla veil instead of mutton sleeves or a cowboy hat. She will forever be one of my style icons, and I don't think she can say anymore that we don't look alike! 

This is the one I chose for the newspaper. I felt that it was traditional, having the veil, but also joyful! No one makes me happier than Zack, and I'm so proud to have my photo published with a caption that labels me his Mrs.! 

Since I'd already decided to wear my mom's dress before we were engaged, I did not experience going to a bridal salon and trying on gowns, seeing myself in a big mirror. I've heard that you should do your hair and makeup to see what the dresses would look like on your wedding day. I'd only tried on this dress at home, with messy hair and no make up, able to see bits of it in mirrors. We had a family friend do the alterations, so I had my fittings at home. I am so thankful for her and her hard work! 

When I got these photos from Krista, I fell in love with the dress! I didn't even know the back looked like that! It was like seeing the dress for the first time. I really had no idea what I'd look like on my wedding day, but these photos made me excited to put the dress on again. 

This is the one I chose for the reception. I love the detail on the back of the dress. Bridal portraits are one of my favorite parts of weddings (even beating out invitations and menswear), so naturally, having one displayed at our reception was important to me! 

The whole experience the day we took photos was fun, spending time with Sam getting ready and reminiscing about growing up at church together and her friendship with Zack. She knew both of us before we knew each other. It's kind of ridiculous that it took us so long to get together, but I'm incredibly thankful that we finally did! 

The dress is comfortable, and I started to understand why people say they want to wear their wedding gowns more than just one day. 

I wore earrings that my parents gave me for my 21st birthday and a necklace that Zack gave me at Christmas. 

Come back for more bridal portraits and an appearance by a special guest in the next few days! 

all photos by Krista Joy Photography 

hair and makeup by Lula hair and makeup