While the ceremony and reception were being set up at the Embassy Suites, I was across the street with Jessica and her maids as they got ready at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa. I recognized her makeup artist from another wedding I shot, which made me happy because 1.) familiar faces are always nice to see at weddings and 2.) she makes sure everyone has their “eyebrows on fleek”! She also did a pretty spot on impression of Jessica checking out her makeup and had us all giggling.
When it was time for Jessica to walk down the aisle, she entered the room wearing a cape (made by matron of honor Jennifer) and paused at the end of the aisle so her friend and wedding planner could help her with the dramatic reveal. Jessica’s dad got emotional as they made their way down to where groom Tonya’ was waiting, but I’m pretty sure that emotion had nothing to do with the cape.
The reception was held in another room at the Embassy Suites, and was decorated in purple, white, and plenty of silvery sparkle. Guests were served salads, as well as a plated dinner of chicken, rice and vegetables, and a slideshow of memories played to entertain them. The wedding cake was wrapped in rhinestones, while the groom’s cake featured the University of Georgia‘s mascot, the bulldog.
Once everyone was full, there was a fun evening of dancing, including a surprise choreographed routine by Tonya’ (also known as Doobie) and his mom. And I had to add a picture of Jennifer (the matron of honor) giving her toast because she reminded me of someone, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. I said something to Jessica later – she told me everyone says Jennifer looks like Queen Latifah, and I said, “That’s it!!!”
Jessica & Tonya’: thank you so much for letting me be a part of your day. Every time I see someone doing Doobie’s dance move, I think of you two!