If you will, picture the perfect spring day in the foothills of Trenton, GA. The morning started off a little chilly, but soon gave way to sunshine and the dreamiest weather for an outdoor wedding. That was exactly the setting for Alexis and Michael’s wedding day this past Saturday at The Venue at the Bluffs.

As Middle Tennessee wedding photographers, we woke up bright and early for the two-hour drive to Trenton—and the Tennessee countryside did not disappoint. It was the kind of peaceful morning that sets the tone for a beautiful day.

Getting Ready at The Venue at the Bluffs

Once we arrived, we did our usual walkthrough—scouting beautiful portrait locations while the bridal parties got ready in the bride and groom suites. After capturing the personal details, I spent time photographing Alexis for her bridal portraits, while Bill focused on Michael’s groom portraits.

A Tearful Daddy-Daughter First Look (with a Laugh!)

The first looks began with one that brought both tears and laughter—Alexis gave her dad a handkerchief embroidered with “keep your s**t together,” which had everyone giggling. Then came her first look with Michael… cue the happy tears again. These two are high school sweethearts who navigated a long-distance relationship through college, so this day was long awaited and full of emotion.

We were able to sneak in a few quiet, romantic portraits of the bride and groom before the ceremony began.

Outdoor Ceremony with a Meaningful Twist

Under an outdoor canopy laced with greenery and twinkle lights, Alexis and Michael exchanged vows. A beautiful and unique touch to their ceremony was the Ring Warming Tradition—something we had never photographed before. The rings were passed to their parents and grandparents, who offered blessings and prayers before they were placed on each other’s fingers. It was deeply meaningful and intimate.

Guests enjoyed cocktail hour on the venue’s porches overlooking the bluff—an absolutely stunning view—and then gathered for dinner in the main hall.

Thoughtful Garden Party Wedding Details

The reception was filled with garden party charm. Tables were dressed in vintage china with soft pastel hues, and each table number featured a photo of Alexis and Michael at that age. It was so cute and personal!

The bridesmaids wore soft shades of blue and sage, carrying their bouquets in woven baskets tied with ivory ribbons. Alexis was absolutely stunning in her gown—delicate fabric, tiny floral details, and the dreamiest cathedral-length veil (which made my photographer heart so happy!).

Her shoes? Just wait until you see them in the gallery—elegant, delicate, and tied with the sweetest little bow.

A Groom in Otter Socks (Yes, Really!)

Michael looked so sharp in his light gray suit and floral bow tie, but what stole the show? His otter socks.

Here’s what Alexis told us:

“When we were dating in high school, we found matching otter socks and we called each other our ‘significant otter.’ We wore them to senior prom and again when he proposed. He loved them so much he wore through both pairs! So when we found a new pair, he saved them for our wedding day.”

I mean… come on. 🥹 It doesn’t get more personal than that.

His groomsmen wore medium gray suits with floral ties and mix-and-match boutonnieres that tied the whole look together beautifully.

Speeches, Tears, and Dancing Into the Night

One of our favorite parts of any wedding day is the toasts—and this one didn’t disappoint. There were heartfelt tears, genuine laughter, and beautiful stories shared before the cake was cut and the dance floor opened up.

Alexis and Michael—Thank You

Every wedding we photograph, we walk away feeling like part of the family—and this one was no different.

Alexis and Michael, it was such an honor to document your wedding day. Thank you for trusting us with your story. We’re cheering you on as you start your new life together—and we hope you always keep your otter socks close by. 😉

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• Bride’s Dress – Justin Alexander
• Bridesmaids Dresses – Azazie
• Grooms Attire – Jos A Bank
• Groomsmens Attire – Generation Tux
• Venue – The Venue at the Bluffs
• Cooridinator – Michelle Clayton
• Cake – Nothing Bundt Cakes
• Catering – Double Portion Catering, Terri
• DJ – Mike Kepherr
• Officiant – Kyal Strozier
• Videographer – Lanegan Film Company
• Bartender – Anastazia Hendricks
• Photo bus – Little River Photo Bus
• Luma Designs – Chairs
• Shuttle – Chattanooga Bus Co, James Maragnano
• Photography – Collins and Collins PhotographyDeva and Bill Collins
• Hair Stylist – Fallon Larmon
• Makeup Artist – Brandon Gentry
• Makeup Artist – Face by Kyrsten Kell
• Favors – Coozies – Sycamore Studios Co
• Invitations – Truly Engaging