Hannah and Jasper

I love shooting weddings, but there’s something extra special about getting to photograph a wedding for your family! The Vaughn wedding was a total whirlwind of emotions. There was laughter, tears of joy, even some tears of sadness for those who weren’t there, and LOTS of love. Hannah and Jasper got married on December 16th, 2017 in Concord, North Carolina.

Hannah’s dad (my uncle), Brian Early, was going to officiate since he was an amazing pastor. He officiated my wedding, my brother’s wedding, my sister’s wedding, and his other kids’ weddings, and Hannah’s was to be no exception. Sadly, the tears of sorrow that were shed at the wedding were because right before the Vaughn wedding, everything changed.

About a month before Hannah’s wedding, my Uncle Brian passed away very unexpectedly from a heart attack. It came as a shock, and hit all of us very hard. As soon as I heard the news I wept, and couldn’t imagine what everyone was going through in North Carolina. Since I live in Colorado Springs, I could not go to the funeral, which held space for over 1,000 people my uncle had impacted in his life. I was able to hear all about it from my mom and my grandma, who made the trip out there.

I was at a loss about what to do, so I figured going to the wedding was one way of being of some help. I am passionate about weddings, whether it be as a bridesmaid, photographer, or even a guest. Even though I decided to go to the wedding pretty last minute, my family was so happy I could make it and made me feel welcome.

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I was not the main photographer, or even the second shooter, for the Vaughn wedding. I was a guest, but was lucky enough to be a part of the magic that took place that day. The bride, Hannah, is my cousin on my moms’ side of the family, and lucky as I am, I was able to capture some pretty amazing photos. It helps that my family is beautiful, both inside and out. Hannah and Jasper are just those type of people you want to be around. I can see why they are so perfect for each other.

I love taking candid shots, and this wedding let me do that without worrying about the traditional pictures I take at weddings. Hannah was one of the most beautiful brides I have seen. Isn’t she just breathtaking?

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The emotion and love at the Vaughn wedding was way more than I anticipated. The day was GORGEOUS, with perfect weather, and it could not have gone more smoothly.

Seth Snider, the main photographer, was beyond amazing. He has known my family for years, and I observed a lot while watching him interact with them. Seth actually photographed my cousin Bethany’s wedding over 8 years ago! How is that for someone passionate about their job? He was so calm and collected, and you could tell how much he cared for my family! He is located in North Carolina, so if you need a photographer out there you should check him out!

It’s all in the details!!! Just look at that ring. It just screams exquisite and elegant. Those are two of the many words I would use to describe Hannah. She looked absolutely stunning in her dress and I don’t think she could have picked a better one!

The ceremony was held at Central United Methodist Church in Concord, NC. It was an incredible church that had a simple lobby and a gorgeous sanctuary. My cousin Aaron, Hannah’s oldest brother, shed a few tears during the hymn, Be Thou My Vision, beautifully sung and accompanied by Jessie Early, his wife!

There was not a dry eye in the church as they exchanged their vows, especially Jasper, who was truly awestruck by how beautiful Hannah was! These two are truly an inspiration and have so much love for not only each other but life!

As if the wedding had not already been amazing, the reception started and everyone mingled and ate at the amazing taco bar, and what goes better with tacos than donuts for dessert? NOTHING! The reception took place back at Richie Hill, which is where everyone was able to get ready. It has a historical and southern charm feel to it, which in turn made for a very fun and cozy reception.

The favors were by far one of my favorite parts…they were soft white blankets that everyone used to stay warm when the sun went down!

Everyone let loose and had so much fun! People would talk about lots of different memories of Hannah when she was younger, and I was lucky enough to hear a few about Jasper, as well! People also talked a lot about my Uncle Brian! It was like he was there watching over us. Even during the daddy-daughter dance, while Hannah was dancing with her brothers, you could feel the love from everyone in the room! It is amazing how much one person can impact so many peoples lives and leave such a beautiful legacy behind!

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Hannah and Jasper- you are truly a testament to what love is, and how to love well! Cherish the small moments, and each other. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day!

Love, 

   Mandy Penn

   Colorado Photographer

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