Amanda + Christian’s Wedding at St. Joseph Honey Creek and New Braunfels Convention Center
May 11, 2021
Writing this blog today is so much fun because it feels like just yesterday when I was taking Amanda + Christian’s Engagement Photos at the Historic Pearl, here in San Antonio. We were talking about wedding plans, outfits and how much they wanted that urban vibe for their engagement photos. We got to walk around and utilize all the buildings for backdrops and – of course – the river, because – why not?! This was my first opportunity to really get to know these two a little bit, and I’m so glad I did!! They are sweet in nature, kind to the core, and every vendor on their wedding day couldn’t say enough good things about them which only means that the way I experienced them at their engagement session is how they truly are! I LOVED getting the special honor of photographing Amanda + Christian’s wedding at St. Joseph Honey Creek and New Braunfels Convention Center. I can’t think of a better job.
As many of you know, it was a crazy weather day, May 1st! Like total gems, Amanda and Christian were very go-with-the-flow when it came to the weather and had an “it is what it is” and “it’s good luck” type attitude which I already LOVED. Upon arrival, Gricelda and I unloaded all our stuff and immediately regretted being unprepared with no change of clothes! 🙈 But that’s okay, we made it through the entire day and it was an EPIC day, to say the least. We didn’t get the rainy umbrella photos we had talked about because when it was raining, it was pouring, but instead we started the day with the bridal party in the church and some bridal portraits of beautiful Amanda. She seriously GLOWED! Callie was a doll (maid of honor) and helped a TON with the dress and flowers like a rockstar!
And then going back down the elevator for that first look with dad had us ALL in tears! Johnny waited patiently while Sandi helped with the dress and getting some sweet pictures of her and Amanda before exiting the Bride’s room. As Amanda drew closer, I looked back and saw everyone gathered around, cell phones and tears on display, and then the moment came they were all waiting for… she tapped her daddy on the shoulder to have him turn around and see his only daughter, beautiful as ever, waiting for his approval one more time. He was overcome with emotion at what his eyes could see through the tears. This was it. She looked incredible and had hope, kindness and her future in her eyes, and he was as proud as could be, ready and willing to give her away.
If that moment wasn’t enough, then comes Christian as we tucked the crowd away for a private first touch. the wall’s corner was just perfect to slide their hands closer and closer until they met. As soon as their hands touched, a tear fell from Amanda’s eye and Christian laughed in excitement to get to see his bride so soon. They exchanged some questions like “how are you?” and “are you ready?” and then shared some quiet time to take it all in.
Their wedding ceremony was the full, Catholic Mass experience, and it couldn’t have turned out better. I loved watching Christian as Amanda came down that aisle and he had the biggest smile on his face! Johnny held it together and gave his daughter away with grace and a big hug to both of them. One of my favorite moments was watching Christian and Amanda bring flowers to the holy family. During this time, I captured my usual, traditional photos, but then I looked back and saw the parents… Johnny, Sandi, Celine & Heinz, kneeling, praying and some tearful during this precious moment. What a spiritual and perfect moment that was.
Post ceremony… GUESS WHAT?! It stopped raining!!!!!!!! This was such a God thing! We were able to hang out for 15 extra minutes and really capture some amazing church-front, cathedral husband and wife portraits!! Having just done their engagement session the month before, these two were pros at posing so we got through those fast and furious, just in time to join the party at the civic/convention center in New Braunfels!!! -And let me tell you – it was a PARTY!! We got to capture BOTH the WEDDING MARCH and Dajcie Dajcie, which sweet Elaine explained so well for everyone unfamiliar! And I love that in the Polish song they sing it means “don’t be stingy!” Haha and Dajcie Dajcie actually means: “Be Generous” or “GIVE GIVE!”. I never knew that with all the Dajcie Dajcie we have captured before! I cannot wait for you to scroll through all the fun we had together!! To Amanda + Christian! 🥂
Vendors:
Hair by Southern Tease
Makeup by Tammie Barker Airbrush
Dress by Morilee (purchased at Bridal Connections SA)
Flowers by Plantiques
Ceremony at St. Joseph Honey Creek Catholic Church
Reception at the New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center
Wedding Coordinator Borrowed and Blue (Blaize Lynch!)
DJ Connection as DJ
Cake by Simply Charming Cakes
Catering by Werner’s Steakhouse
Bridesmaid Dresses by David’s Bridal
Groom & Groomsmen Attire by The Black Tux
