Elise and Chase started their wedding planning from South Carolina, but they completely won me over when they came over to my house to chat about the final wedding details in the weeks before their wedding. When I got to the chapel on their wedding day, I felt like I was arriving to see old friends get married.

These two had the sweetest first look and private vow exchange before the ceremony. Private vows have always held a special place in my heart—Jeff and I exchanged private vows during our own first look before we were married—and it was one of the most memorable moments of the day (and as Elise told me later, this was one of her favorite moments too).

• Ceremony Venue: The Chapel at Hawk Hallow
• Reception Venue: Hawk Hallow 
• Florist: Smith Floral
• DJ: Joe Todd – Push Play DJs (I love this guy!)
• Wedding Dress: Davids Bridal – Melissa Sweet
• Cake: Cakes-A-Bloomin

And major thanks to Rachael, who was my second photographer that day and did an incredible job of capturing behind the scenes photos before the ceremony, along with different angles and details during portraits and the reception. Holy cow, Rachael, you’re amazing.

Elise and Chase added a photo booth for their guests to play and get silly.

View the video below to see more photos from Elise and Chase’s wedding.

Elise+Chase Wedding Day Slideshow from Allie Siarto on Vimeo.

Check back next Tuesday for a brand new blog post.

Mara and I were summer camp counselors together back when I was starting college. We bonded over ridiculous outfits and songs, sleeping in the dirt in teepees, learning to care for a group of ten-year-olds and generally having the time of our lives being fully present without the distraction of technology.

Mara grew up in East Lansing, but she moved to the East Coast for college and eventually landed in New Orleans. It’s not hard to see why Mara and Jasper wanted to get married in New Orleans—this city has so much charm and character.

In true Mara fashion, the wedding was completely focused on bringing everyone together—they started the day with lawn games by the City Park Peristyle where they would be married later in the day. It was fun to start with a casual celebration that set such a great tone for the rest of the day.

And before we jump in, I have to thanks Stephanie for her awesome work helping out with this wedding. Thanks, Steph!

After lawn games, we headed to the Windsor Court Hotel so Mara could get ready.

Then it was back to the Peristyle to see Jasper before the ceremony.

Check back next Tuesday for a brand new blog post.