Colorful and Local-Inspired Water Table Wedding by Beth Hamilton Photography

From the local-inspired street sign reception centerpieces to the family tradition of being married by the groom's father, I don't even know where to start with this sentimental and personalized special day! I really need to just let this lovely bride Christina take the stage and tell her and Kiel's story-- all visually documented by Beth of Beth Hamilton Photography. :)

I grew up in Hampton Roads and have lived here my entire life. All of my family still resides in the area here locally, and within the last ten years, Kiel's mother and father moved to Hampton Roads. To bring in tradition, his father is the minister at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Suffolk and officiated our service. My husband is the second oldest of four boys, and in their family, it is tradition for his father to officiate their wedding ceremony. It really made our day extra special to have someone that we love marry us and lead us into that next chapter in our lives.

But there were so many great memories from that day, it is hard to choose! I guess my most vivid memory of that day would be the moment I got ready to walk down the aisle. Kiel and I had agreed that we would not see each other until then. It was a tradition I wanted to carry forward in my family. The anticipation of seeing him made seeing him at the altar so much more special.

In the bridal room by myself, there was just this moment that I had where I could hear the music playing as the girls were walking down the aisle. I remember thinking to myself, "I'm getting married in a few minutes!" All day I had been excited, but in that moment, I was beyond excited. I remember looking around the corner of the door frame to see my uncles waiting for me to come out. I went to them and stood in front of the closed doors of the church, waiting to hear the processional music cue.

Within a few seconds, we heard it start, and the doors opened. When I rounded the corner of the aisle and I saw Kiel for the first time that day, it took my breath away. There he was, my sweet husband, crying tears of joy to see me walking towards him. It was my favorite moment of that day. I started to cry as well as I neared him, and all I wanted to do was run to him. I saw the last eight years of our knowing each other flash in my mind. My heart was so full of love for him, and it still is.

VENDOR CREDITS:
Photography: Beth Hamilton Photography // Ceremony Venue: St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church // Reception Venue: The Water Table // Hair and Makeup: Behind the Veil Studio // Stationery: Wedding Paper Divas // Florals: DIY by Family // DJ: Colonial DJs // Bridal Gown: David's Bridal // Menswear: Men's Wearhouse // Caterer: Mojo Bones // Cake Designer: Plaza Bakery // Submitted via Two Bright Lights>