Nicole and Ernie / Lanier Islands / Buford, Georgia / July 22nd, 2023

On the shores of Lake Lanier...

Nicole and Ernie chose to get married on Lake Lanier because it was a popular vacation spot for their families. Lanier Islands has several stunning wedding ceremony and reception spots to choose from, and they chose a perfect spot on the shore with a beautiful view! They chose to have their ceremony at Peachtree Falls, which is a beautiful spot on the shores of the lake.

The day began

with the girls getting their hair and makeup done in the bridal suite at the top of the wedding ceremony site at Lanier Islands. It was a pleasure to meet their hair and makeup artist, Blake, and she come all the way up from Lake City Florida where Nicole and Ernie live to serve them on their day! Blake did some of the most beautiful work I have ever seen, and the girls all looked FLAWLESS. I spent some time with the ladies as they continued to get ready, and I got the dress and details photographed as well. It wasn’t until I was editing their final round of photos when I realized inside of Nicole’s ring was inscribed “Nicole and Ernie.” How incredible!

First looks!

Once Nicole was dressed in the bridal suite, it was time for a few first looks! Her dad came into the suite first, and they shared a wonderful first look between father and daughter. Then, it was time to grab Nicole's son Cole for a first look. That moment was so special and I loved seeing them laugh, hug and smile. I then gathered up Nicole's FIVE brothers and for a first look with them. They were so happy to see her!! Hugs and smiles were shared all around. Next, I gathered the groom, Ernie, and I set him up around a corner for he and Nicole's first touch. They held hands, talked, and laughed for a few minutes before it was time for everyone to get ready for the wedding.

The bridal party was ROCKIN!

Photos of the bridal party before and after the ceremony were SO much fun. The groomsmen had spent the weekend on the boat so there were some tan lines (we forgive them) and it was nothing a little makeup couldn't help. There were giggles and smiles from the girls and lots of butt-slapping and liquor from the boys. The bridesmaids consisted of the bride's sister, daughters, and the groom's daughters, and the groomsmen consisted of family and the bride's son. So fun!

Their wedding ceremony

was full of special surprises and unique touches that brought many laughs! The groom and best man had streamer poppers for the walk down the aisle, and there was a stunning performance from their "Beer Boy" who passed out some High Noons to the crowd. Nicole and Ernie exchanged vows, and had a special sand pouring with their 6 children to represent their family coming together as one.

We had some time for bride and groom portraits at the ceremony site as well as on the shores of the lake before heading over to the reception hall. I loved this time with them!

The reception

at Lake Lanier Legacy Lodge was a hit, and there were many instances of break dancing, crowd surfing, heart felt toasts, and dancing. There was even a bouquet thief! We all danced and partied for several hours before Nicole and Ernie left their wedding after a sparkler exit.