The entire day was pretty special. The groom and his men relaxed with a little pre-wedding poker and the bride was surrounded by the couple's three dogs as she slipped on her wedding dress under the watchful and nuturing eye of her Mom. Following the full Catholic ceremony, the newlyweds chose to take the party to the beach where we got some of our favorite shots of the day. Back at Frenchman's Reserve, the band, Soul Survivors, had everyone on their feet dancing before the food was even served. Alida's brother, Will, even sat in with the band for a couple songs and the crowd went wild (as it often does) for a little rendition of "Sweet Home Alabama."
During the traditional father/daughter dance, Alida and her brother, Will, danced to a song she had chosen as a memorial to her father, "I Loved Her First" by Heartland, and the music was accompanied with a photo slideshow of Alida and her Dad. It was incredibly touching and a lovely tribute to the man who had, indeed, loved her first. The night concluded with Alida presenting Michael with a trophy. As she said, "A trophy to the man who has put up with me for so many years. You deserve an award!" Michael graciously accepted the honor but felt as if he had already won a prize, just by having his beautiful bride by his side. I'd say they both came out winners.
Michael & Alida, we had a great time capturing all of your memories. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your day!
