A Wedding Day Full of Quiet, Intentional Love
There are some wedding days where the details stand out first. The flowers, the venue, the dress. Then, there are wedding days where the relationship itself becomes the thing you remember most. This Dancing Bear wedding for Lexie and Tijmen absolutely fell into that second category.
If there’s one thing that was undeniable throughout the entire day, it was how deeply Tijmen loves Lexie.
You could see it in the way he looked at her during their first look. You could hear it in the emotion behind his voice when they shared private vows tucked away from everyone else. More than anything, it was in little moments throughout the day that made their connection feel so genuine and unforgettable.
One moment in particular completely caught everyone off guard in the best way.
Right after the reception toasts, Tijmen stood up and gave a little toast directly to Lexie. It wasn’t planned in some big elaborate way. It simply felt like his heart overflowing in real time. He spoke about how much he admired her, what she has brought into his life, and how thankful he was that she chose him. Then he ended by thanking her for marrying him and sharing how excited he was to begin this next chapter together. He got a little choked up, and I genuinely think every person in the room felt emotional right alongside him. It was one of those moments that immediately quiets a room because everyone can feel how sincere it is.
This was my first official wedding at Dancing Bear Lodge, though I had photographed a rehearsal dinner there before and have visited several times as a guest for dinner. But experiencing it fully as a wedding photographer gave me an entirely new appreciation for the space.
Lexie had mentioned beforehand that she loved light and bright imagery and was a little nervous about the venue naturally leaning darker and moodier in style. Going into the day, I made it my goal to intentionally seek out backdrops and lighting situations that would still give her gallery that bright, soft feel she loved. And honestly, I was pleasantly surprised by how many beautiful opportunities the property offered. Between the outdoor spaces, the softer natural light, and the intentional angles we chose, we were able to create images that still felt airy and romantic while fully embracing the character of the venue.
I truly loved photographing this Dancing Bear wedding and would absolutely love to shoot there again.
And I also have to give a huge shoutout to Christy from Dancing Bear. She was incredible throughout the day. Having a venue coordinator who stays fully engaged and supportive throughout the wedding day makes such a difference, and she did an amazing job serving Lexie and Tijmen from start to finish.
I’m a Knoxville Wedding Photographer that loves to travel. I shoot anywhere! Click here to contact me with any questions you have about pricing or booking! If you liked what you saw above, go ahead and follow me on Facebook or Instagram to see my daily updates of the latest sessions!
Vendors used by Lexie & Tijmen:
Assistant Photographer: Mary Nelson Photography
Venue, Cake, DJ, Caterer: Dancing Bear Lodge
Florist: Melissa Timm Designs
Hair & Makeup: Bangs and Blush
Stationery: Minted
Strings: A Touch of Classical
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