which way to the beach? — Stacey & Scott’s wedding

Stacey and Scott originally planned to get married on the beach in Mexico. When schedule conflicts and other circumstances forced a change of plans, they didn’t let it get them down. Stacey marked their places on the altar with masking tape that read, “The Beach”. She told me, “This way, when we’re saying our vows, we’re technically still standing on the beach.”

That’s just how these two people are. Whatever happens, they’re rolling with the punches. Throughout their entire wedding day, it was obvious to everyone that they just wanted to be married. All the “fussy dress up stuff” was fun, to be sure… but the point was that they’d finally be married.

This wedding was more than just the joining of a really goofy bride and groom. It was the coming together of a family. Stacey’s children both played big parts in the ceremony, and watching the way the foursome interacted all night was really beautiful.

The happy newlyweds are currently on a honeymoon cruise, but I know for a fact that they’re checking the blog whenever they have internet access. So, the wait is over, guys! Here are my favorite images from Stacey & Scott’s Weatherford wedding.

Red shoes? Yes please!

The rings are actually vintage, given to the couple by Scott’s mother. Scott’s father passed away last year, so the use of heirloom rings had particular significance. Scott and Stacey’s wedding date will be inscribed on the inside of the bands, right next to his parents’ wedding date… such a moving tribute!

I believe this wedding marked a first for me… not only did the bride do her own hair and makeup, but she did everyone else’s, too! I guess when you’re a pro, it just makes sense to do it yourself!

Stacey surprised Scott by sneaking into his pocket a pipe that had belonged to his father. I heard there were tears when he discovered it, but I can neither confirm nor deny that rumor. What I CAN do is share this oh-so-dapper picture Mack snapped shortly after the discovery:

Mack’s favorite grooms are the ones that have fun while the girls are getting ready. Obviously, it takes far less time to throw on a tux and gel the hair than it does to prep a group of bridesmaids. So he’s had fun with grooms who golfed, played pool, played poker, and fished. I think the new winner, though, is a groom who spends his “getting ready” time with Guitar Hero battles:

I absolutely adored Stacey’s dress. Not only did she make a fabulous decision as far as fitting and flattering her figure, but she took some important steps toward keeping her simple gown from being boring. The addition of the red shoes you saw above, plus this pewter sash and detailing… and POCKETS… made it the perfect reflection of this bride’s style.

With a few minutes to spare before Stacey & Scott’s First Sight, I told Stacey to sit in the window where there was really pretty light for a few quick headshots. Apparently, she found it very amusing to be “gazing softly” out a window that looked down onto a massive air conditioning unit. (Truth be told, I might prefer the laughing shot to the straight smile… I just love the HAPPY.)

And now, it’s time for the bride and groom to see each other. I know I’ve said a million times what a great idea I think this is, but I’ll say it again… I think the First Sight is a fantastic idea. As a photographer, it obviously gives me more time to get creative portraits. But beyond that, I’ve never had a couple that regretted the decision. Being able to talk to each other… for a bride to hear her soon-to-be-husband say, “Oh wow, you look incredible”… to share the moment with no one but some sneaky ninja photographers… I just think it’s really special.

Scott so desperately wanted to turn around. All the way down the stairs, Stacey was saying, “Not yet. Not yet. Wait until I touch your shoulder!”

I love the light that Mack caught from up on the second floor:

… while I was getting this!

The following might be my favorite of the portraits. You guys know how I’m a fan of the “almost kiss”.

And then it’s go time! Here’s a shot Mack captured of Blaine giving his mommy a kiss before walking her down the aisle. SO SWEET!

Stacey & Scott did a sand ceremony during their service, and it turned out so beautiful. Both bride and groom added layers of sand, as did the pastor, and both of Stacey’s children.

I’d say being pronounced Man & Wife is a great reason for a fist pump, wouldn’t you?

They danced back down the aisle…

And made as equally fun an entrance into their reception at Los Vaqueros in Willow Park!

The “sVs” monogram was everywhere, and Mack and I both really liked the subtle, classy way it tied everything together.

I can’t help but share this next one. Right before the “cake cutting” (do you still call it that with cupcakes?), Stacey asked what she needed to do for us, as far as the pictures were concerned. I said, “Just go slowly.” She and Scott proceeded to do a fun Matrix-speed rendition of a cake feeding. Nice, huh?

The glasses next to the groom’s cake have a fun story. See, Stacey & Scott’s first date was not a real date. They were just getting together for a drink, to talk about some similar situations they were dealing with. At Buffalo Wild Wings, that “not a real date” turned into 8 hours of conversation, and the discovery of an unexpected connection. Three cheers for Buffalo Wild Wings!

And to round out the evening? Karaoke. The newlyweds brought the house down with their lively rendition of “Don’t Go Breakin’ My Heart”… at least what parts of it the house could hear over the laughter.

Stacey & Scott, thank you so much for making McGowan Images a part of your special day. The way you love each other is truly wonderful to see, and we had such a fun time with you guys!