birdandbicyclephotography.com east texas wedding

Lauren and Mikey’s Wedding had to be relocated to the Beckham Hotel in Mineola, Texas due to the never-ending rain of May 2021. Rain on your wedding day supposedly means good luck too. They had originally planned on getting married at a tree farm outside of town, but honestly, this location was just as beautiful in its own way. We were also able to use the gazebo in downtown Mineola for a few of their husband/wife portraits which was quite the adventure in the rain.

Lauren and Mikey are both 1st Lieutenants in the Air Force and they met on a base they were both stationed. When I asked about their first date, they mentioned playing cards with some friends. The interest was definitely mutual and their love grew. Mikey had decided he would propose on the evening of Christmas eve. That day Lauren was helping Mikey pack and she found the ring box, so he ended up proposing right then.

The wedding:

Last Saturday, the excitement was building as everyone was making preparations for the wedding when I arrived. Mikey was looking sharp in his Air Force mess dress. We recreated a sweet generational photo for his family where his brother is pointing at his watch and Mikey is looking at it thinking, “It’s almost time!” I’d sure love to see the photos from Mikey’s father’s and grandfather’s wedding where they took the exact same photo. The hotel’s courtyard worked out perfectly for taking some portraits of the groom before the wedding. Lauren then put her dress on and her mom helped her fasten it. She chose to do a first look with her dad and it was really sweet. Their closest family and friends joined them for this beautiful celebration of their union. Lauren and Mikey chose to write their own vows which they read aloud at the ceremony. The officiant did a marvelous job describing what a Christ-like marriage exemplifies. After the wedding, they exited down the staircase looking simply radiant and in love.

At the reception, they had guests snap a polaroid photo of themselves once they signed the guest book. Lauren’s dad and Mikey’s brother both offered up toasts and well wishes to the bride and groom. I know Lauren and Mikey felt so loved and supported by those in attendance to their special day.

Well wishes:

Lauren and Mikey, wishing you both all the best as you begin this exciting new adventure called marriage! I have no doubt you will both love and cherish one another all of your days. Many prayers for the days ahead. Thank you both for serving our country with such dignity as well! Y’all are so appreciated. It was an absolute honor to photograph your wedding and I hope you love this recap including all my favorites from your day! With love, Emilee