Chastico and Cortez are married, and I cannot get over how Cortez gushes over her! Here’s a paragraph from their *amazing* wedding website on WithJoy.
“We first met at Nylo, an eclectic hotel with a rooftop bar near downtown overlooking the Dallas skyline. I arrived, searching for two things, the first open bartender and somewhere to post up. I worked the space a couple times over and, boom, there she was. Sitting in a section, just enjoying the view. I remember thinking, ” Oh, wow, who is that?”. After I found a seat I mingled a while, glancing over periodically trying to find a way to get close, bump in to her, or something to where we crossed paths. It finally happened. I looked up, she was on the move, headed to the bar for which turned out to be a glass of wine, moscato to be exact. I walked up to the bar shortly after she did to make it seem “coincidental”. After a few moments of maneuvering to get close, I mustered up the nerve to speak and introduce myself. Having no idea that introduction would lead to a candid conversation, and spark an interest in one another, that will soon culminate with us spending the rest of our lives together.”
Because Chastico was living out of state, I unfortunately didn’t get an engagement session with these two– I got to meet them for the first time at their wedding!
Not sure what y’all were doing as the thunderstorms were rolling in on Saturday, June 8th, but we were getting ready for a wedding! My second shooter and I arrived at Athens Country Club in the early afternoon, basically on skis, and within seconds our phones were throwing weather alerts at us. Flash flood watches and I don’t even know what else. Part of my sunk for Chastico, because I knew she had her heart set on quite a few outdoor photos. Another part of me was just too excited to get upset, and as soon as Chastico walked in- she brought radiance! The weather was the least of her worries– she was beaming. I don’t know that I’ve ever seen someone take something like that in such stride.
As Sarah, my wonderful second shooter, and I captured some shots of their amazing wedding day details, the bride and groom were busy getting ready in their separate corners of the venue. (love this ring shot, Sarah!!)
I popped into the groom’s quarters to see what the guys were up to, and talked them into a shot or two. 🙂
As Chastico’s hair and makeup artists did their final touches, mom and Aunt Belle were right beside her, ready to help her into her dress.
She. Is. STUNNING!
We lined her ladies up for a fun bridal reveal– they were OBSESSED!! (How could they not be?!)
All dolled up, and ready to get married! We headed to the ceremony just in time to catch Cortez fighting back his tears as she walked down the aisle. 
After their ceremony, these two wanted a quick shot alone on their dance floor. I wasn’t certain what they had in mind, but I definitely had my mind made up once I saw these beautiful chandeliers!
The weather literally stopped pouring just as we were starting bride and groom portraits. Chastico and Cortez were eager for some fresh air, and I was itching to get some greenery in their portraits. I just *love* how her skin glows in the beautiful natural light.
After portraits, these two must have gone to practice some dance moves because their introduction was nothing short of a show! I haven’t had a bride and groom dance their way into a reception like that– it was SUPER fun!
Dinner and drinks, followed by some partying!
(wink)
One last dance to end the night, and sparklers to send them off to Costa Rica!! (fun fact: That’s where my honeymoon was!!)
Chastico and Cortez, thank you so much for trusting me with the privilege of documenting your wedding day. We had a blast with you two, and hope to see you again as your family evolves.
Love to you, your awesome friends, and your sweet family!!
-Rocheal
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