When I think back on this University of Arkansas Catholic wedding. One of the first things that comes to mind isn’t just how beautiful the church was (although it absolutely is). It’s how intentional Abigail and JP were about their day. They wanted gorgeous, timeless photos, but they also wanted to actually experience their wedding. They wanted to be present during their Mass, celebrate with the people they love. And enjoy every part of the day instead of feeling like they were constantly being pulled away for portraits. As a wedding photographer, that’s exactly the kind of wedding day I love to be part of. From the peaceful moments before the ceremony to the joyful dance floor and sparkler exit. Every part of their day felt relaxed because we built their portrait time into the day instead of trying to squeeze it all into one long session.
Why I Love Photographing a University of Arkansas Catholic Wedding
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church on the University of Arkansas campus is one of my favorite churches to photograph in Arkansas. It’s a newer church, but it still has everything I love about a traditional Catholic wedding space. The soaring ceilings, beautiful stained glass, and classic architecture create such a timeless backdrop, and every corner of the church photographs beautifully.
One of my favorite parts of photographing a Catholic wedding here is the opportunity to step back into the sanctuary after Mass. Once family and guests have made their way to the reception, the church becomes quiet again. Those few minutes allow us to create portraits on the altar. In front of the stained glass windows, and throughout the sanctuary without feeling rushed. They’re some of my favorite images from the entire day because they feel peaceful. Intentional, and true to the significance of the ceremony that just took place.
How We Made the Most of This University of Arkansas Catholic Wedding
One thing I’ll probably never ask my couples to do is disappear for an hour after the ceremony to take photos. Sure, we could. But I’d rather you spend that hour hugging your grandparents. catching up with your friends, and soaking in the fact that you just got married. Instead, I like to spread portraits throughout the day. Before Mass, we carved out just a few quiet minutes for Abigail and JP to be together before everything began.
Whether that’s a first look, private vows, or simply a prayer together, those moments help settle the nerves and create some of the most genuine photos of the day. After the ceremony, we spent another 10 to 15 minutes inside the church while everything was still beautifully set up. Then later in the evening, we stepped away one more time for another short portrait session as the light changed. Instead of one long photo session, they ended up with multiple galleries of portraits that all looked completely different.
A Wedding Day You’ll Actually Remember!
At the end of the day, my goal isn’t just to deliver a beautiful gallery. It’s to help create a wedding day that feels as good as it looks. I want you to remember laughing with your bridal party while getting ready. Seeing each other for the first time, celebrating after Mass, sharing your first dance, and running through a tunnel of sparklers at the end of the night. Those are the moments that make your wedding day yours. Abigail and JP’s day is such a great reminder that you really can have both. You can have timeless portraits. A beautiful University of Arkansas Catholic wedding, and still spend the majority of your day exactly where you should be, with each other and the people you invited to celebrate alongside you!
Ready to Plan a Wedding Day That Feels Like You? Hire Me As Your Wedding Photographer!
If you’re planning a Catholic wedding in Arkansas, or anywhere else, and you’re looking for a photographer who believes your wedding day should be experienced, not spent posing for photos, I’d love to be part of it. Together, we’ll build a timeline that gives you beautiful images while making sure you actually get to enjoy every moment along the way. Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!
Vendors
Venue @willowbrookefarm
Church @catholichogs
Planning @addisonturnerevents
Catering @thesouschef.co
DJ @rebirthdjs
Florist Buds N Bows
Hair and Makeup @byhannahtaylor @saltandlightbeautyhouse
Margarita Machine @nwa_margarita_man
Bride’s Dress @somethingyoubridal
Suit @azaziesuits
Bridal party @azaziebridal
Cake @eatsbyannie_
