June 7, 2025
One of the best things in the world is getting asked to photograph one of your oldest friend’s weddings. I have known Katie for over 13 years at this point and can think back to the coffee meet-up where she was telling us about the wedding date that she and her then-boyfriend were wanting.
Katie and Shu got married on Divine Mercy weekend and were my Easter wedding for 2025. Growing up next to Katie in high school, hearing about her vocational discernment process through early adulthood, and then watching her marry the love of her life (Shu is an AMAZING match for her) was just such a great visual of the Lord’s work in her life.
Their wedding day started with the most relaxed morning getting ready at the The Blowout Co. in the Gulch and let me tell you, I’d like for all my brides to get ready there because 1) they did an amazing job and 2) it is such a beautiful studio! So much pretty light.
We moved over to Holy Family Catholic Church, Brentwood, TN where Luke did portraits of the guys, I did photos of the ladies, and then we set them up for their first look. Before Katie went out to meet her groom, she had each of her bridesmaids and her new mother-in-law fasten one of the buttons on her sleeve and many tears were shed.
Peep these gorgeous blooms from Brentwood Flower Shoppe.
We always get some of the BEST portraits right after a pre-ceremony/Mass first look. We stayed inside to keep everyone out of the heat and used these giant windows. It was hands down one of my favorite first look and portrait sessions so far.
When I was talking to Katie during our timeline consultations, she made it clear that their biggest focus in planning was on their wedding Mass followed by throwing a great party for their guests. Every detail of their wedding Mass at Holy Family was so intentional and beautiful.
And the first kiss at the end of Mass? Their first kiss ever. So ya know, that was pretty up there on the “must have” photo list.
Their Mass finished and everyone lined up for a classic church exit. Midday sun, colorful florals, and streamers were such a fun and bright combination, perfect for any Easter wedding.
After we wrapped up family photos, we had some fun with the bridal party, snapped a couple more portraits of Katie and Shu, and sent everyone to go party.
The speeches from the Shu’s brother and Katie’s mother and sister had everyone crying. Crave knocked the reception food out of the park. They cut the cake (made by Katie’s mom!!!) and then everyone DANCED.
If you ever get the opportunity to let the Egyptian side of your family take over the DJ booth, I highly recommend. The energy on that dance floor was unmatched and so. much. fun.
Congratulations to Katie and Shu!
Vendor List:
Venue: Holy Family Catholic Church, Brentwood, TN
Coordinating: @kimmiejeanwilliams
Photo: Madeline Oakley Photography
Video: MPH Media
Catering: CRAVE
Florals: Brentwood Flower Shoppe
HMU: The Blowout Co.
Charcuterie: Faithfully Grazed Charcuterie
Madeline is a Catholic wedding photographer based out of Nashville, Tennessee serving the beautiful Southeastern United States. She uses a documentary-focused approach to capture the beauty, joy, and holiness that is intrinsic to each and every wedding day.
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