RYAN + MEGAN | METAIRIE, LA | THE BALCONY BALLROOM
It's true that I get a tad bit emotional and sentimental (cue the tears and "oohs" and "aahs") at every wedding I attend and photograph, and this one was no exception.
I first met Megan at Fellowship Church where we are both members. We also had the opportunity to work together on a photography/videography job in North Carolina earlier this year in April. I distinctly remember her telling me then that Ryan was the man of her dreams, and after six months of dating, Megan was confident that Ryan was who she wanted to spend the rest of her life with. She was hopeful for a proposal to come soon and filled with excitement at the joy they shared together in their dating relationship. I got the news just a few weeks after our trip together that Ryan PROPOSED and Megan, of course, said YES!
Thus the wedding planning began! I was thrilled and honored to be asked to photograph their wedding day, and I looked forward to celebrating Ryan and Megan as they began their journey together as husband and wife. We scheduled a fun ENGAGEMENT SESSION in May shortly after the proposal where we photographed them at a few different locations - one of them being where they shared their first date.
October 22, 2022 was soon upon us - their big day was finally here! Megan, along with her mother, sister, sister-in-law, and soon-to-be mother in law started their morning at the beautiful Marriott Lakeway Hotel. Here, they had their hair and makeup professionally done by the talented Latessia McClellan of Sante Hair Salon and Taylor Shirer from About Face of New Orleans. Meanwhile, Ryan and his crew relaxed and prepped at the nearby Eliza Jane Hotel (If you have not visited before, then you must make this a stop on your next trip to New Orleans - such a cool atmosphere).
It wasn't long before we all made our way to The Balcony Ballroom. Upon entering, I was blown away by the beauty and elegance of this venue. Not a single detail was left undone - I believe I walked around for the first ten minutes with my jaw dropped in amazement at what all I was seeing. The decorations, the delightful smell of the food that was being prepared, the colors, the flowers, EVERYTHING. It was perfect! Not to mention, the staff was so incredibly attentive to Megan and Ryan, being sure to cater to any need they may have.
Upstairs, in the spacious bridal suite, Megan slipped into her wedding gown. She looked absolutely stunning in her Hayley Paige gown from I Do Bridal Couture - it fit her to a tee. Her handsome groom visited with guests as they arrived and was excitedly waiting for the start of the ceremony.
The wedding was officiated by a mutual friend, Byron, who did such a wonderful job of making it a touching and personal ceremony. Vows were exchanged, I DO's were said, and their first kiss as husband and wife was shared. The joy and happiness for Ryan and Megan was evident by all in attendance.
Next, let's talk about the food that was provided by The Balcony Ballroom! Oh My Word! From fried soft shell crab, fried green tomatoes, to filet mignon and more - the food was SUPERB. I have literally dreamed of that soft shell crab since then - my mouth is watering now as I write about it. A south Louisiana flare was evident in so many of the details, including wedding favors from New Orleans Pralines as well as the stunning cake made by Gambinos. Another favor that was chosen was a favorite of Ryan and Megan's - Fannie May Chocolates from Chicago.
Moving on, first dances were shared between Megan and her father and Ryan and his mother. Not only did my eyes leak a little during the ceremony vows, but I found them watering up again during Megan's dance with her dad (this daddy's girl was definitely getting sentimental during that one). Friends and family danced the night away and celebrated Ryan and Megan with love and laughter and well wishes through reception. A special treat came at the end - a SECOND LINE by the Knockaz Brass Band. Notice those gorgeous second line umbrellas - they were custom designed by a family friend, Timmy Vedros.
As it came time wrap up, everyone gathered outside for a fun bubble send off. Ryan and Megan rode off in style thanks to Celebrity Limousine. The day, from start to finish, was everything they hoped for and more.
May God bless them both with a lifetime together of love and happiness.
WEDDING DAY PREP
THE DETAILS
CEREMONY
RECEPTION
