Mountain Wedding at the 5Star Lodge in North Georgia // Karen & Ryan
Karen & Rian’s mountain wedding was one of the neatest blended weddings I’ve ever seen. While Karen’s family is dyed-in-the-wool Southern, Rian’s family is from Romania, and the two cultures mesh together better than you can even imagine. Dancing, drinking, and - most importantly - EATING are both huge parts of both cultures and the setting of the wedding in the North Georgia Mountains was perfection.
Photos from their Mountain Wedding in North Georgia
I mean, have you seen this view?!
We took advantage of the gorgeous scenery & views, and even took some time to visit with some of the horses who live at the lodge, thanks to Rian’s long history as an equestrian stuntman. We paid homage to Karen’s father throughout the day, such sweet moments that really touched my heart {I might be tearing up again…}. There were sunflowers and personal touches throughout, and at the end of the night, everyone enjoyed the handbuilt photobooth wall that Rian made.
I’ve had the complete pleasure of shooting Rian & Karen a handful of times, like for Karen’s graduation session, their engagement session, and now we have another session coming up in the fall. 😉 Keep an eye out for it!
Thanks Karen & Rian. You’re awesome. {and so was your mountain wedding day in North Georgia} 🙂
Most memorable moment of your wedding day?
Walking down the aisle. It was a beautiful day! My brother was by my side, all of my family and friends in one spot, and the most wonderful man looking at me with the biggest smile. It was an incredible moment in time.
Funniest moment from your wedding day?
When Rian was “looking” for the garter {for the garter toss}. He took off my boots and threw them. It was both funny and embarrassing.
What were you most anxious/nervous about regarding your wedding day and how did it turn out?
We did not have a wedding planner. I was nervous about everything, but I soon realized that I had great people (such as Raven, Nick, my mom, Rian’s mom, Roxanne, and our DJ). Y’all are the ones who made sure everything run smoothly.
What advice would you give to other couples planning their wedding?
EAT! Rian and I could barely eat our food without someone pulling us aside. It was still ok, but I definitely wish we could’ve eaten more of his mom’s delicious food.
If you could do it all over, would you change anything?
Not one thing. We talked out how much we loved out wedding on the honeymoon. The wedding was perfect!!!!
Any tips for future couples on how to prepare for the wedding photos?
Just go with the flow!
Vendors
- Florist - Amber from The Flower Bar
- Caterer - DIY/family & friends! Rodica Bledea (Rian’s Mom)
- Cakes/Desserts - DIY/family & friends! Lisa and Nick Davis (out neighbors)
- DJ - DIY/family & friends!
- Venues - Morning Breeze Cabin rentals, 5star Lodge
- Hair Stylist/Makeup Artist - Michelle Concepcion, DeBeaute Hair Studio
- Wedding Planner - None, but Roxanne {from the Five Star Lodge} was amazing! She lives on the property and is in charge of only set up and clean up. She went above and beyond!
- Dress/Clothing - Formally Yours (my dress), The Red Dress Boutique (bridesmaid dresses), Jos. A. Bank (groom and groomsmen)
- Accessories/Jewelry/Rings - Tara’s (both wedding rings), earrings from Etsy, right-hand ring and bracelet from my father, pearls were a gift from Rian’s mom, headband from Etsy
- Other - Dress hanger from Etsy
Get In Touch to Plan Your Wedding Day
Raven is an Atlanta Wedding Photographer who captures real people on their totally unique and completely awesome wedding day. She travels throughout Georgia, including Athens, North Georgia, Dahlonega and beyond, documenting love.