When I think back on CJ and Kenji’s wedding day at Beau Cheval in Wartrace, Tennessee, the first word that comes to mind is joy. From the very start—even with rain in the forecast—CJ was calm, centered, and ready to marry the love of her life. Rain or shine, nothing was going to dampen this celebration.

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Getting Ready at Beau Cheval

The bridal suite was filled with energy and excitement. CJ’s gorgeous wedding gown was already hanging when I arrived, alongside the brightly colored bridesmaid dresses waiting their turn. Sweet flower girls (CJ’s nieces) twirled in front of mirrors, giggling as they admired themselves in their dresses.

CJ herself was peaceful, with her hair and makeup nearly complete, savoring the finishing touches. Meanwhile, across the venue, the groom’s suite was laid back—Kenji and his groomsmen swapped stories and played Pac-Man while they got ready.

One of the most emotional moments of the morning was CJ’s first look with her bridesmaids in the sunroom, followed by an unforgettable first look with her dad. His reaction was full of tears and pride, a memory CJ will always carry with her.

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Emotional First Looks & Sacred Ceremony

Before the ceremony, CJ and Kenji exchanged heartfelt letters with one another. It was such a meaningful pause in the day, grounding them in what truly mattered most.

Their ceremony was officiated by CJ’s brother-in-law, who did a beautiful job weaving in both laughter and tears. The flower girls beamed as they sprinkled petals down the aisle, and in a nod to Kenji’s love for baseball, the rings were tied to small baseball gloves carried by the cuties ring bearers.

After their vows, happy tears and hugs filled the space as families officially welcomed one another. The bridal party celebrated like champions—literally high-fiving one another as they walked out.

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Portraits at Beau Cheval

After the ceremony, we spent about 30 minutes capturing portraits of the newlyweds around Beau Cheval’s stunning property. CJ and Kenji prefer relaxed, natural photos, so I encouraged them to simply be themselves—laugh, embrace, and move freely. Their joy was effortless, and it showed in every single frame.

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Reception Fun: Pickleball, Dancing & Heartfelt Speeches

The reception began with a bang as the bridal party entered full of laughter and personality (you’ll have to see the photos to catch the groomsmen’s hilarious twist!). Then came one of the most unique moments I’ve ever photographed: before their first dance, CJ and Kenji challenged each other to a pickleball match. Even in her wedding dress and boots with heels, CJ beat Kenji—who was in tennis shoes! The crowd loved every second.

The toasts were just as unforgettable. CJ’s sister Casey, her matron of honor, shared heartfelt stories that highlighted their beautiful sister bond. Kenji’s best man brought both laughter and tears, sharing fun stories—including skinny dipping tales—and ending with a lighthearted jab that had everyone roaring.

The first dances were tender and deeply moving. Kenji watched in awe as CJ and her dad shared their moment, smiling as though he was taking in every second. His dance with his mom was just as touching—she buried her face into his chest and cried, no doubt remembering the little boy she once carried home from the hospital.

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A Celebration to Remember

The night continued with portraits of every guest (completed in record time!), the shoe game, and a dance floor that stayed packed all night long. And here’s the best part—it was a dry wedding, proving that fun comes not from what’s in your glass, but from the love and energy you bring to the celebration.

CJ and Kenji’s wedding at Beau Cheval was the perfect mix of sacred, emotional, and downright fun. Rain may have started the day, but joy and laughter carried it all the way to the end.

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Planning a Wedding at Beau Cheval in Wartrace, TN

If you’re looking for a wedding venue in Tennessee that blends elegance with natural charm, Beau Cheval in Wartrace, TN is a dream. From the sprawling grounds to the thoughtful bridal and groom suites, it’s a venue that makes every moment feel timeless.

 If you’re planning your own wedding at Beau Cheval or anywhere in Tennessee, we’d love to document your day with photos that feel relaxed, joyful, and true to you. Contact me here to learn more.

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The Fabulous Vendors

• Venue – Beau Cheval
• Entertainment- Big Daddy Outlaws
• Caterer – Strawberry Moon
• Photographer – Collins & Collins Photography
• Hair – Carrie Berry
• Makeup – Molly Johnson
• Wedding Planner – Beau Cheval
• Groom and Groomsmen Suit – Mr. Mac
• Bridal Gown – Pritchétt Bridal

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CJ and Kenji’s Full Gallery