One thing I miss when second shooting is knowing the couple and their story beforehand. There’s usually so much communication before a wedding that when their day finally comes, I show up and am like a special friend who’s there to capture their day! So it makes me excited when Randy asks me to come along to one of his weddings, and I am welcomed the bride and her girls! And with Holly and Travis’ Empire Mine fairytale wedding theme and rustic, elegant Squirrel Creek Ranch reception, there were so many personal, storytelling details to capture!

Holly found the perfect crystal studded heels for dream-come-true wedding, and the most beautiful pearl Tiffany necklace from Travis!

Before she got dressed, Holly’s mom tucked an heirloom sixpence and piece of her own wedding dress into the petticoat.

Yes, Holly’s wedding dress is the Alfred Angelo “Cinderella” dress!

Don’t worry this is only make-believe! No crystal heels were lost, and no matter what, Holly was marrying her prince!

Because of a mix up, the ceremony and music started before even all the bridesmaids were at the correct location! Poor Travis was standing up front waiting and wondering what happened to his bride! Thankfully the girls got there before too long, and now they’ll have a fun story to share in the years to come!

After walking through the rose garden and around Empire Mine, we headed back to Squirrel Creek Ranch for one more picture at sunset before the party began!

Such a cute way to welcome their guests to the reception!

Congratulations Holly and Travis! It was an honor capturing your dreams come true!

Photography | Lydia Photography for RJ Photography

Ceremony location | Empire Mine State Park

Reception location | Squirrel Creek Ranch

Dress | Alfred Angelo

Hair and Makeup | VJ’s Salon

Caterer | Bill’s Chuckwagon