Jess + Jody:: Secret Garden Wedding :: Ponte Vedra Photography::Part 1

I did not know when I shot this wedding that it would be my last at Palm Valley Gardens, but since the venue is closing, I can’t think of a better couple to finish with!
I first met Jess through a referral last year, and from the moment I chatted with her, I knew she would be one of my most favorite brides. I always cry at weddings, when the father and daughter dance it gets me EVERY time! But at this wedding I cried the moment I saw Jess walk down the aisle. Through the last year we have gotten so close- and I truly felt like my little sister got married when I watched her say I do.
This couple is so special to me, and everyone they come in contact with- their love is so perfect, but even more they are both just awesome. Jessica has the ability to make everyone feel welcome- for her pint size frame {she wears a size 4 shoe!!} she packs a wallop of amazing southern hospitality {and she is from NJ}. And Jody, well, he is pretty darn amazing too, and the way he loves Jessica, well that makes him even more amazing! When you add Soph to this mix {Jody’s daughter, that adores Jessica from top to bottom}- you have the making of the most amazing new family!
Jessica planned her wedding around a secret garden theme, and carried it through from the skeleton keys to the carved wood table centerpieces. The Conservatorie did an amazing job with the florals, keeping them Southern with a touch of vintage- overall the wedding was the perfect combination of these two! Jody’s crew looked spectacular in vests and custom tennis shoes- perfect for this surfing group. And Jessica’s maids rocked the perfect champagne frocks- seriously loved them against the flowers! And the flower girls- so stinking adorable with their flowered tutu’s. Palm Valley gardens was the perfect backdrop for this wedding, it will be missed around these parts!

Jess and Jody- I don’t know what to say to you two except I love you both! You have made me feel so welcome since the moment I met you both- and being with you on your wedding day was nothing short of an honor. I don’t even know if their are words to describe you two!  I am excited for the future that you two are embarking on- you have the makings of an amazing family! Thank you for allowing myself and my crew to be a part of your love story- I know this is just the beginning!

**This is part 1 of 2, the wedding day from start through the first look. The rest will be on the blog tomorrow with all the wonderful vendors and the answers to Jess and Jody’s questions!