Elissa and Jimmy; A Southern Brides Feature

For the love of family.

Elissa and her mom came to me on one her trips home from South Carolina. Her fiance’ a new Army Ranger - yes you heard me right.. Army Ranger - were recently engaged and had started their planning journey.

The family wanted to be heavily involved, wanted it centered around warm details, Christ centered, the love of their families, and showcase all the ups and downs of their long-term relationship.

We got right to work - but first was nailing down a date. Elissa was worried about finding a date that would work with a military schedule - as most of the wedding party were currently still serving. Armed with a ex-Navy wife by their side - I knew a few tricks to get them through it. Nailing down just after Christmas, when most get leave - they decided on December 28. The falling snow, crispness in the air and the beautiful lights of downtown Springfield called to them. We set the scene at the historic 1st Presbyterian and the Presidential Abraham Lincoln Hotel.

The couple asked for a warm and cozy winter evening gathered with their dearest family and friends.