When Matt and Jess told me they were having a Live Oak Plantation Wedding, I was thrilled. This venue has so much to offer and the greenery is just stunning. I can’t say enough about it. The weather forecast was showing a 91% chance of rain for Saturday, May 21st. This couple was so special to me, not just as their photographer but because I was with them from the beginning when they got engaged, and wanted their wedding to be perfect. I’m not talking about scattered showers, here. I’m talking a giant red cell on the radar that took up the entire southeastern part of the United States from 2:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

I went to the store and grabbed more umbrellas than would fit in my cart in case there was a light break in the rain, maybe we could get out of the venue for just a few moments with the bridal party (with 21 people) for some cute umbrella photos? After browsing wedding blogs all night for inspiration on rainy day weddings. I was fully prepared with rain boots and my rain jacket packed up next to my gear. But, guess what? I never used it.

It never rained a single drop.

God’s Will

God showed up in BIG WAYS for this couple. And if you’re wondering why they got so “lucky” let me explain.

Not only are Matt + Jess some of the most kind-hearted people I know, but they went into their wedding day knowing their marriage would be Christ-centered. They wanted their wedding day to be Christ-centered as well.

I showed up to the venue an hour early so I could grab any possible photographs of the Live Oak Plantation Wedding views before the storm came in. I know they were praying, along with their bridal party and myself for clear skies to open up for this day, but it wasn’t the only time prayer showed up.

During their ceremony Matt + Jess did something non-traditional. Before their first kiss, they tucked away behind the alter with their pastor, played Christian music, and prayed together while their entire bridal party and all of their guests prayed over their marriage. I don’t have many words to describe it. Everything was incredibly intentional and meaningful. It brought tears to my eyes.

There’s a lot more I could say about how amazing each member of their bridal party was, their flower girl was their sweet dog, Maya, or how Jess’s Mom tore up the dance floor. But, for now, I’ll let these images speak for themselves.

Matt + Jess,

I wish you a lifetime of happiness. Although we can’t relive this night again I hope we can hang out again soon!

All my best,

Jordan West

Check out this amazing Vendor team that made Matt + Jess’s Wedding so beautiful!

Photographer: Jordan West Photo | @hellojordanwestphoto

Venue: Live Oak Plantation

Florals: Chrissy Floral Design

DJ: DJ Dr0ne

Dress: Margaret Ellen Bridal

Videography: Creative Seed Media

Caterer: Culinary Productions

Cake: Betty Weber Cakes