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If you follow me on Instagram (and if you don’t, please do, @KellyGinn22) you may have seen this:

I received at least 6 or 7 texts, and several comments saying, “YALL BOUGHT A HOUSE?”

So I’ll clear the air for all.

John and I are so SO excited to announce that we are MOVING. No, we aren’t moving to a tropical island, or even to a different state, but we are moving into our OWN little house. After living in two different one bedroom apartments for almost two years, we were literally bursting at the seams. We had WAY too much stuff, and not enough room. When Tebow (our golden retriever) would walk from the living room to the bedroom, he would almost ALWAYS knock something over with his tail, not to mention the living room kinda became my office, and there is always a trail of ‘Kelly Ginn Photography’ on the couch, floor, and table.

After searching for a small house to buy we realized a couple of things:

#1. We didn’t want to buy something JUST because we could afford it, because then we would either outgrow it quick, or be stuck in something we ‘settled’ for.

#2. Being a small business owner means being patient and being able to show the bank a minimum of 2-3 years of experience before they will count your income (in terms of your income being counted when you go get pre-approved for a loan.)

With that being said we found a happy medium, a rental house! We get lots of room without having to commit 100% like what we would have to do if we purchased a home.

So are we home owners? No, not technically, but this is a VERY exciting adventure for both of us. We finally have more than one bedroom to decorate, try THREE. One of which gets to be my first ever office, and that is exciting in itself! Tebow finally has room to stretch out and play, AND a backyard. We finally can grill out, something we have not ever been able to do (although I just recently read that grilling meat gives you cancer, but what doesn’t these days.)

Here are a few images of John and I embracing our new home, that we love SO much. Documenting our early years is super important to us both, so I truly cherish these. As we move in and get rooms decorated I’m sure I will update you all, those who are interested anyways.

So from our HOME to yours, enjoy!

So what’s up with the balloons? Well, funny story, I have loved balloons since I was very little. My mom loves to tell anyone about  the O’Charley’s story. When I was little, we often went to dinner at O’Charley’s. They used to give green and purple balloons to children as they left. This was literally the highlight of my life. I could barely finish my chicken fingers and fries because every couple of minutes I would say “Can I have it now?”

When we would leave the restaurant my sister and brother liked letting their balloons go and watch them “float up to heaven.” Although to this day I still love watching balloons float up in the sky and disappear, I didn’t so much then. Mom says I had a meltdown every single time. As soon as I’d let it go I would start bawling uncontrollably and be devastated for the rest of the night. It would get to the point that when we would visit that restaurant my mom and dad refused to let me have a balloon, because they didn’t want to deal with my meltdowns. Lets just say not letting me have a balloon ended in a meltdown as well. So I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our new home, then with tons of gorgeous balloons.

I just love the quietness of this.

Poor John, always prepared to be attacked.

My husband is down right handsome.

And needless to say, I did NOT have a meltdown over our balloon release, although it did cross my mind.

John, home is when ever I’m with you! I can’t wait for this new chapter in our silly lives =]

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  • July 1, 2013 - 5:08 pm

    Molly - Yay! Congratulations! I am so excited for y’all. We didn’t take any pictures while we were moving into our current house, and I am still sad about it. Next go around, we are definitely putting it on the list. Y’all are adorable =)ReplyCancel

  • July 2, 2013 - 7:43 am

    Kevin - You two siting in the corner is my favorite! Was some photos taking with the telephoto lens? Cod LAN party!! Lol. I’m so happy for you guys. I wished this happened two years ago.ReplyCancel

Let me back up to the very first time I ever met Jessica and Daniel. It was November, 2012 at a wedding I was shooting. They were both in the wedding party, and although I did not know them or even their names, John and I immediately fell in love with both of them. Daniel has one of the most unique, hilarious personalities I’ve ever met, on top of being extremely talented. Daniel is a worship/song leader at his church, which is where he and Jessica’s story began. Jessica is the definition of exquisite, she is so prim and proper, shy even, but you can’t help but notice how lovely and polite she always is.

I remember wondering if this adorable couple, and I do mean absolutely adorable, were close to getting engaged. When I found out Daniel proposed, my heart couldn’t help but flutter. When they asked me to shoot their wedding, well, I jumped for joy, John too.

The proposal story is just the sweetest. Jessica just recently graduated from UT Knoxville, smart AND beautiful, she’s a catch. She came home to celebrate with her family. When Daniel wasn’t on time to her celebration, she called him and he informed her the church he works for had been broken into, so he was a little caught up. (She now knows this story was all part of the plan.) Daniel and Jessica had already planned on going to the park later that afternoon, so once Daniel finally got to Jessica’s, they headed out to the park.

Let’s back it up one more time before I finish re-telling the proposal. Jessica and Daniel tried once before to make a chalkboard out of an old window using chalkboard paint. Jessica said they failed miserably and it didn’t turn out like they had planned. She kinda just put that away and planned on maybe going back to it some other time. Little did she know that Daniel had other plans.

As they were walking, Jessica noticed a couple of signs, one of which said “I finished our chalkboard.” Jessica, still confused at this point looked around and saw this:

And…. I am officially melting.

(See what I mean about Daniel’s personality…’it’s about time.’)

Needless to say, Jessica said YES, and this happy couple will be saying their vows on October 5th, my birthday! I can’t think of a better way to celebrate it, as I document two amazing people’s first chapter.

Jessica and Daniel wanted a natural/nature-y engagement session. I received a text from Jessica that said:

“Would it be awkward if I bring a couch?” I geekishly responded in all caps “UM NO, A COUCH IS A MUST.”

J&D are quite the trendy dressers. They were dressed to kill, I mean they look like Anthropologie models, both so adorable. Daniel’s bow tie and suspenders so greatly complimented Jessica’s high waisted polka dot skirt and vintage mint wedges. Not to mention the FABULOUS props she brought along: the yellow nightstand, the vintage typewriter, the guitar, the aqua mason jar (yes, she took loves them) and the old books, I loved all of it.

J&D I hope you enjoy these as much as we did!

Hey Jessica, you are stunning.

My mouth is watering, all I want is a pair of mint wedges.

And to think Jessica said she is shy and awkward in front of the camera, yeah right!

I can always so easily relate to a girl that twirls. This makes my heart happy.

At both weddings I have shot that Daniel and Jessica have been a part of, Daniel has sang and played guitar during both ceremonies. This was definitely something worth documenting.

It wouldn’t be Jessica and Daniel’s engagement session without a silly photo.

Can’t wait for October!

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  • June 28, 2013 - 3:18 pm

    Jessica Looney - These are absolutely precious! You captured their personalities perfectly! I just love these two and you are an amazing photographer! Beautiful!!

    Jessica LooneyReplyCancel

When Caitlyn signed up for a mandatory elective, and not so fun class at the University of Memphis, she had NO idea that her future soul mate would also be in that same class. Although Caitlyn recalls Landforms being ‘the worst class ever’ and I can only agree with her, because I once suffered through that same class, she doesn’t regret taking it, why? Because her new hubby Zach was also in the class. Caitlyn said “Apart from Zach being in there, it was pretty miserable.” One day after a test, Zach asked Caitlyn how she did on it. Although I am sure Zach truly was interested, only because I feel confident when I say Zach is one of the most genuine human beings I’ve ever met, I have a feeling his motives may have been just a little more than to find out how sweet, adorable Caitlyn did on it. After making small talk a couple of times, Zach and Caitlyn decided to go to a local concert together, and you know the rest of this story, kiddos.

BOY, am I glad they had that class together because they are just the cutest, silliest, most fun couple you ever did see. I couldn’t help but smile on their entire day. Everything about their day was unique. Remember Caitlyn and Zach’s lake engagement session? https://kellyginnphotography.com/caitlynzach-an-herb-parsons-lake-engagement/ I was prepared for a detailed, personalized, casual while classy wedding, and boy was I right. Spring Creek Ranch is ABSOLUTELY gorgeous, I mean it is simply stunning. They have a very modern styled clubhouse while the outside remains very rustic and ranch like. The actual course had SEVERAL interesting nooks that allowed for C&Z to have a bit of variety for their portraits.

When John and I arrived, sweet little Caitlyn was all smiles getting her makeup on and eating a wrap. (I love a girl who eats on her wedding day. I may have eaten two or three carrots on my wedding day, lame.) When Zach pulled up he greeted John and I with a hug and a slap happy smile, and said “I’m so ready.”

Caitlyn and Zach are quite the nature lovers AND hopeless romantics. I mean, he carved “Will you marry me” in a tree, hello? I knew there would be LOTS of tears involved, so I came prepared with tissues in my pockets. There were ALL types of tears, and I loved it. I saw what is quite possibly one of the sweetest father-daughter first looks in existence. And just when I thought it couldn’t get any sweeter, Caitlyn did a first look with her brother as well. Brother tears are the sweetest.

Caitlyn and Zach’s bridal party were dressed to the absolute nines and reflected C&Z’s fun loving personalities perfectly. The yellow gingham bow ties, the leather suspenders, the gorgeous lace mint bridesmaids dresses paired with cowgirl boots were a perfect fit for such a gorgeous ranch wedding. Caitlyn’s white lace gown completely reflected her exuberant personality. She about knocked ALL of us off our feet when she walked down the aisle. Caitlyn and Zach decided to get married on May 25th, 5/25 at 5:25 in the afternoon, how cool is that?

There was laughing, crying, skipping, twirling, and a WHOLE lot of dancing on C&Z’s perfect day, and John and I feel honored to have spent the day capturing these special moments. We hope you enjoy them as much as we did!

(PS. a special thanks to VM Weddings Studio for being such a fantastic group to work with. Visit http://vimeo.com/68337336 to see C&Z’s wedding video)

Tammy may be one of my favorite people in the world.

Since Caitlyn and Zach decided not to see each other, they decided to spend time holding hands and reading love notes from one another around the corner from each other.

My simply amazing and talented husband snapped this beauty. Hello gorgeous!

All of Zach’s brothers are wearing Ninja Turtle socks, and Zach is Super Man, the rest of the groomsmen got to pick their favorite super hero!

And as if they couldn’t get any cuter, the back of the socks had capes, wings, and bandanas.

Ok, so Jessica, was Caitlyn’s MOH, sister, and best friend, and let me tell you, she deserves an award or something because she was an INCREDIBLE MOH. Hats off to you Jessica!

Probably my most favorite.

Get ready to grab some tissues, folks. Caitlyn’s first look with her father was a true tear jerker.

Oh, this just kills me.

See what I mean about how sweet brother tears are?

I could print this and hang it on my own wall.

So this is Zach’s immediate family. When I first saw them I’ll admit I was overwhelmed for two reasons: first of all, there are a TON of them, but more importantly and reason number two- they are some of the most beautiful people I’ve ever seen. I honestly thought they may be related to the Cullen family, and I say that as a compliment. I kept waiting for one of them to glitter in the sun, or predict the future. You people are lovely.

Caitlyn’s dad hand built this beautiful wedding prop. Why get married inside when you can walk through doors outside?

To be able to compose himself, Zach decided to look down until the moment Caitlyn got to him. This was precious.

This is Zach’s giant family. Wow.

Just seconds after the ceremony, C&Z were hidden away until portraits began. It only took seconds for them to start laughing with each other. They had no idea I was even snapping. That’s love.

Get ready for a ton of simply stunning bride and groom portraits.

One of Caitlyn’s request, and one of my favorites. I can only imagine what beautiful babies C&Z will have.

Another JTG original.

This sweet wedding guest deserves a shout out for making my absolute day. She yelled over a crowd, ” ARE YOU KELLY? I’VE SEEN ALL OF YOUR WORK, YOU’RE AMAZING.” Sweet girl, thank you for making a 24 year old blush.

This was one of my colleagues and art friends, Sara and her husband Beau. We can’t forget sweet Lydia in her tummy!

Zach married into a Cardinal loving family, despite his love for the Braves, he was a sport and put it on.

Congrats Mr. and Mrs Kiedis.

(Vendor Credit: Venue: Spring Creek Ranch, Videography: VM Weddings Studio, Florist: Angie Morton Design, Cake: KippCakes, Band: Terry Green and the Undercovers Band)

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  • July 5, 2013 - 8:17 pm

    Jessie Knox - So, when you said “Get ready for tears.” I obeyed right away and grabbed the biggest hankie I could find, and sure enough, the tears could not be stopped. This photography is prime. God truly gave you a gift! I’m sixteen and totally a hopeless romantic and this is just- Ugh. Your pictures totally made my life! I’m following you on insta (I’m mymyjessiejade) but I just wanted to say thank you and GOD BLESS! When I’m old enough to get married, I want you to be the photographer!ReplyCancel

 

I always like to give a little background on the first time I meet each and everyone of my brides. Luckily, Tori and I met in the 9th grade, so I have many memories of her. If you were to ask me, or anyone for that matter to describe Tori in 3 or less words I can honestly say we would all agree that she is the following: 1. Kind 2. Sincere and 3. Stunningly gorgeous with a heart of pure gold. Ok, ok, so that was more than three words, but hey, they are all so true.

Phillip, on the other hand I did not know until this year. I had only heard amazing things about him, and each and every time Tori would post a picture via Facebook or Instagram she always looked so happy, like she was living on cloud 9. When I finally had the opportunity to meet him, I completely understood why Tori was always so giddy and head over heels about Phillip. Phillip is a true gentlemen. At their engagement session, ( https://kellyginnphotography.com/toriphillip-a-classy-downtown-engagement/) I watched Phillip open and close the car door for Tori, hold her purse, and help her put her adorable coral Jessica Simpson pumps on. He is a standup kinda guy, and these love birds DEFINITELY deserve each other.

When Tori asked me to shoot her wedding, I’ll admit, John and I jumped up and down. Tori has an eye for all things sparkly and we naturally have the same taste in a lot of different things. She excitedly told me ALL about her plans for a stunning at home Arlington wedding. I remembered how lovely her childhood home was, so I knew this would be a very special, intimate wedding. Tori’s gorgeous mom, Ginger designed their lovely home, and Tori’s dad built it. Let’s just say I was a bit obsessed with everything about Tori’s day: The arbor of flowers the couple said ‘I do’ under, the coral and turquoise wedding accents, the paper lanterns and the tent strung with bright lights, just to name a few.

Before I post this gorgeous, intimate wedding I have got to elaborate on Tori’s favorite part of the day (other than becoming Mrs. Webster). The flowers. I was HONORED to be able to work next to the extremely talented Karin Woodward and her team at Haute Horticulture. When I saw her deliver Tori’s flowers, I’ll admit, I was intimidated, shocked, and ecstatic- all at the same time. That’s quite a few emotions to feel all at once, but she was extremely wonderful and just as lovely as her creations are. You will see her work several times throughout this post.

A big shout out to John Ginn for assisting me once again at another amazing wedding.

Tori and Phillip, we love you guys and feel SO honored to have been the ones you chose to document your special day!

Enjoy.

Phillip chose a yellow canary diamond. I am swooning over this!

Tori got all of her bridesmaids Kate Spade turquoise studs, along with an adorable chevron clutch. I pretended to be a bridesmaids all day.

Karin was kind enough to style this little flower spread around Tori’s invitation.

Tori and I both share a love for aqua mason jars.

Tori’s bouquet nearly brought tears to my eyes. It is made up of the following: Peonies, poppies, spray roses, juliet roses, godetia, ranunculus, and wildflowers. I may have pretended it was mine a time or two.

I will be printing a few of these and hanging them in my own house.

I loved Tori’s take home gifts for their guest. She had peonies and poppy seeds for them to plant and grow!

Congrats Mr. and Mrs. Webster!

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When Lauryn first asked me to shoot her wedding I was thrilled for several reasons:

1. Lauryn was one of my younger sorority sisters and everyone’s favorite.

2. Lauryn had a Friday wedding, and I love those.

3. I knew she and her fiance Scott, had a spark like no other, and I was ecstatic to document that.

Lauryn and Scott’s special day started off muggy, rainy, and gloomy. I had a feeling I was going to get soaked from the rain, or just drenched with sweat, and sure enough I did. Luckily the historic Davies Manor is less than one mile from where we live, so John, my trusty second shooter and loving hubby ran home and got a change of clothes for us both. You will see several of his lovely images throughout this post. It goes without saying he is the best of the best.

Luckily the sun made an appearance and shined its little heart out all day. Lauryn was just thrilled. Every bride deserves blue skies and sunshine. Lauryn and Scott’s wedding was very much so a DIY wedding, and I am ALL about a DIY bride. Lauryn’s trinkets almost put me in a happy coma. I felt like I was in a Forever 21 full of vintage jars, rustic keepsakes, and precious mementos. When I arrived Lauryn was out walking the grounds with her wonderful MOH Melissa, and let me tell you every bride needs a maid of honor like her. She ran her little heart out the entire day, and had such a great attitude. Hats off to you, Melissa.

Lauryn and Scott decided to keep the tradition alive and not see each other before the ceremony, and even though there ceremony wasn’t until 7:00, we had plenty of dreamy light for their portraits.

Before I get TOO wordy on here, I just wanted to thank Lauryn and Scott once again for the honor of capturing your magical day. You two are God fearing people, and I know that will make for an eternity of happiness.

Congrats Mr. and Mrs. Yackel!

Enjoy!

I loved all of Lauryn’s little details.

#yackelwedding

Lauryn’s books were my favorite.

Lauryn was munching on Funyuns while she was getting her hair done. Don’t ya just love her even more now?

Melissa, Lauryn’s MOH suggested that they all pray for Lauryn before we started the bridesmaid’s portraits, I love how they turned out.

Lauryn wanted to surprise her bridesmaids, these are just too cute.

You’ll notice half of Lauryn’s bridesmaids were brunette and the others blonde. This means war.

Most definitely the best groom/groomsmen ever. I love this city.

Lauryn’s mom, who now only lives with us through pictures. Lauryn’s stepdad sat this beautiful portrait in the seat closest to the aisle, and closet to Lauryn. I couldn’t help but tear up when I saw this.

I.love.this

The most precious man I’ve ever met.

How I love my Alpha Gams.

This couple on the far left is Jeanie and Steven. I am shooting their wedding next June!

John may or may not have caught me dancing when I probably shouldn’t have been. Oops!

What a dreamy way to exit. Congrats Mr. and Mrs.

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  • June 2, 2013 - 3:35 am

    Carol McGee - I love the beautiful wedding pictures from Scott and Lauryn’s wedding! It was one of the best weddings I have been to, and the love Scott and Lauryn have for each other is expressed so well in their wedding pictures!ReplyCancel

  • June 14, 2013 - 2:17 am

    Nancy McDonough - Absolutely one of the prettiest weddings ever, and the best thing about these pictures is the love shining on their faces.ReplyCancel