If you saw Mariah and Shane Andrews’s engagement session, previous blog posts, social media features, or wedding day announcement, you already know that I have known Mariah since she was a little girl. Photographing her wedding was such a meaningful, full-circle moment for me.
Throughout the day, Mariah kept thanking me for being there and for sharing this season with them. Honestly, though, I was the one filled with gratitude. Photographing her marriage to Shane was an incredible honor. Watching Mariah and her brothers step into this next phase of their lives was truly beautiful.
Their Velora Wedding was absolutely stunning. Mariah and her mom created so much of the décor themselves, and every detail reflected Mariah’s luxurious taste. Together, they own a wedding business offering embroidery, engraving, and photo booth services. When you hear “embroidery,” however, you may not picture the elevated level of work they provide.
Mariah incorporated beautiful embroidered details throughout the celebration. She thoughtfully customized the bar menus, vow books, ribbons tied around the dress hangers, and even the place settings. She embroidered names directly onto napkins, creating elegant place cards that felt both personal and luxurious. Every piece worked together perfectly and gave the entire wedding a refined, cohesive look.
If you are considering embroidered details for your own wedding, I wholeheartedly encourage you to reach out to Mariah. She truly has an eye for creating pieces that feel special and sophisticated. I still do not know how she managed to design everything while being a mom and working full-time as a nurse! We joked throughout the wedding day that she might be bored afterward because planning had occupied so much of her time.
My favorite moment of the day happened immediately before the ceremony began. After the wedding party and parents had made their way down the aisle, the DJ played a recording of Mariah’s voice over the speakers. In it, she shared a sweet little note with Shane before walking down the aisle. Shane had not cried all day. Even during their first look or even during the emotional moments he shared with their daughter, Meyer. But as soon as he heard Mariah’s voice, his eyes became a little glossy. Watching his reaction as he waited to see his bride was such a tender, unforgettable moment.
This was my first time photographing a Velora Wedding, and the venue did not disappoint. Tucked away in Sevierville, Tennessee, Velora is a hidden gem surrounded by peaceful valley scenery. While it does not feature the sweeping mountain views often associated with East Tennessee, it offers something equally beautiful: two ponds, graceful weeping willows, abundant shade, and gorgeous natural light.
The emotion, poise, and beauty of Mariah and Shane’s celebration shined brightly from beginning to end. I am so excited to share more photographs from their unforgettable Velora Wedding!
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 Mariah & Shane:
Assistant Photographer: Britt Cole Photography
Venue: Velora
Planner: All Aesthetics
Florist: Perk and Petal
Desserts: Yulia’s Cakes
Hair: Katelyn Sides
Wedding Dress Shop: Loveliest Bridal
Men’s Attire: Azazie
Stationery: The Stitchy Collective
Caterer: Open Road Wood Fired Pizza
Saxophonist: Chris Gonzalez
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