There are wedding days that feel beautiful and then there are wedding days that feel meaningful. Mackenzie and Ayden’s wedding at Ashton Gardens Sugar Hill in Atlanta, Georgia was both. From the moment I met them during their first consultation, I knew their day would be something special. They were laid-back, fun, and confident in what they wanted, with clear communication and trust every step of the way. A literal dream combination for any wedding photographer.

Ashton Gardens Sugar Hill is one of my absolute favorite Atlanta area wedding venues, and Mackenzie & Ayden’s day was the perfect example of why. The venue offers a seamless flow from start to finish, making the entire wedding day feel relaxed and un-rushed. The chapel, filled with natural light and romantic architectural details, created a dreamy setting for their ceremony. Soft pastels, greenery, and floral-lined aisles enhanced the already stunning space. The reception hall was just as breathtaking, with florals cascading along both sides of the grand staircase, a spot we used often throughout the evening and one that quickly became a favorite for portraits.

One of the most emotional parts of the day happened long before the ceremony even began. Mackenzie shared some of the sweetest moments with her mom while getting ready. There was a calm energy in the room. The kind that only comes when a bride truly feels present and supported. These moments are always some of my favorites to photograph. The hugs, the glances, the pauses where everything sinks in, they’re fleeting but incredibly powerful.

Before the ceremony, Mackenzie and Ayden chose to do a private first touch beneath the arbor walkway. They exchanged gifts and took a quiet moment together before walking down the aisle. They had been together for ten years, and in that moment, everything hit Mackenzie at once. You could see it written all over her face. The history, the love, the excitement, and the weight of finally marrying her best friend. At this moment, everything was exactly how it was meant to be.

Right after, emotions were still running high, so we made a last-minute decision to do a first look with her dad. Mackenzie gave him the sweetest gift, and the two of them stood together, soaking it all in. His little girl was getting married and you could feel the pride, love, and tenderness in that moment.

Their ceremony took place in the chapel, surrounded by natural light pouring in through the windows. Pastel florals in shades of blue, pink, cream, and greenery lined the aisle and ceremony arch, creating a soft, romantic atmosphere. The moment Mackenzie walked down the aisle felt electric. The love between these two was undeniable, and every guest felt it.

Later in the reception, both Mackenzie and Aydens dad gave speeches. These are always some of my favorite moments. Parents know their children better than anyone. Hearing childhood stories, words of encouragement, and heartfelt advice adds such depth and emotion to the celebration.

On to this STUNNER of a moment. If I had to describe Mackenzie’s wedding dress in one word, it would be FABULOUS.

This was hands down one of the most beautiful dresses I photographed in 2025. Elegant, strapless satin with stunning sparkle details, with a detachable long flowing skirt. It fit her perfectly. After the ceremony, she transformed her look by adding a bow, creating the perfect second look for the reception. Ayden’s attire complemented her effortlessly with a classic, multi-piece black suit and bow tie. Timeless, polished, and perfect for such a refined day.

Mackenzie & Ayden chose 10 hours of full wedding day coverage, and I’m so glad they did. With getting ready happening at a different location, emotional pre-ceremony moments, portraits, ceremony, and a full reception, the day was full but never rushed. Full coverage allowed them to truly experience their wedding day without constantly watching the clock. If coverage had been shorter, portraits would have been cut short and some meaningful moments may not have happened at all or would have been rushed, making it hard to truly take it all in. This is why I always encourage couples to build a timeline that allows them to breathe. With an amazing planning and coordination team handling the schedule and logistics, the bride (and photographer) can focus on what matters most…being present.

After a beautifully, emotional day, guests enjoyed a delicious dinner featuring chicken, steak, mac and cheese, salad, rolls, veggies and of course, your girl had to have a crisp Diet Coke.

The cakes were some of my favorite details of the entire day. One was a three-tier white buttercream cake adorned with blue and white florals on a gold stand, in the perfect spot where the sun hit just right and chandelier reflected in the most beautiful way across the table. The second was a smaller cake featuring the cutest bride and groom ducks, adding the perfect personal touch.

One of the most meaningful reception moments happened when Mackenzie’s grandmother was getting ready to leave. We gathered all of her grandkids together for a photo, a moment that may seem small, but carries so much weight and meaning. These are the moments that make my heart swell.

Later, Mackenzie & Ayden hopped into their limo and we had a full-on mini photoshoot moment. It was SO much fun and the perfect way to end the night. Mackenzie and Ayden were an absolute joy to work with from start to finish. They knew what they wanted, weren’t afraid to speak up, and trusted me creatively throughout the entire day.

Hearing a couple say, “Yes, love that,” or “No, that’s not our vibe,” while still allowing space for creativity is truly the best partnership. You could tell they genuinely enjoyed their wedding day and being surrounded by people who love them deeply.

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who has experience photographing at Ashton Gardens Sugar Hill in Atlanta, understands the flow of the venue, and captures both the big moments and quiet in-between ones, I’m your girl!! Now let’s take a moment to look at their day!