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A Marblegate Farm Wedding || Kelsey & Chase

A Big Heart and a Big…Snake?

Undoubtedly, Kelsey & Chase’s Marblegate Farm wedding had it all. Romance, joy, laughter, and one very unexpected guest: a black snake. The day started like many beautiful wedding days do—peaceful and full of anticipation. Right after the first look, I walked with Kelsey, holding her train as we made our way back toward the house. Just behind us, her other camera crew also followed along, and we were chatting and strolling like everything was perfectly normal. Until we got to the steps. Suddenly, we heard them yell: SNAKE!

Of course, Kelsey and I turned around in complete disbelief. Apparently, we had walked just feet from a huge black snake without even realizing it! Both of us had a minor freakout (okay, maybe a medium freakout), while Chase, ever the calm and steady presence, barely blinked. He was completely nonplussed. The photo you see of him kissing Kelsey’s hand on the stone steps? That was taken right after the snake slithered off. You’d never know from their calm faces what had just happened!

That was actually the first time in my entire career that I’ve come so close to a snake during a wedding day, and to be honest, it’s pretty surprising. I have photographed in some of the most rural areas, but this was a first. Later, as we walked through a patch of tall grass for portraits, I high-stepped my way through and quietly chanted, “no snakes, no snakes, no snakes.” It was 100% worth it though because the photo of Kelsey and Chase walking down the gravel road is one of my absolute favorites from their gallery.

But what I’ll remember most about their day wasn’t the unexpected wildlife—it was Chase’s heart. All day long, people spoke about his deep kindness and thoughtful nature. His mom, Kelsey’s mom, his sister—they all told stories that made it clear he’s someone who loves big and loves well. He reminded me so much of my own husband, and even my little boy—men with hearts that show in everything they do. Chase’s emotion throughout the day, especially during the ceremony, had all of us tearing up. It was the kind of emotion that’s real and rare and also such an honor to witness.

So, give me a Marblegate Farm wedding day full of feeling and a big-hearted groom over a snake-free day anytime. Although, I would prefer it without the wildlife next time!

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 Kelsey & Chase:

Assistant Photographer: Mary Nelson Photography

Venue: Marblegate Farm

Content Creator: Just a Spoonful of Events

Planner: Heels and Veils

Videographer: Sweet Tea Productions

Florist: Lisa Foster Floral Design

Cake: Regina Long

DJ: Legacy Sound

Makeup: Winged Out Beauty & Cherith Brooke Beauty

Wedding Dress Shop: White Lace and Promises

Wedding Dress Designer: Martina Liana