When I was invited to photograph Cody and Whitney’s wedding at Ocoee River Barn in Benton, Tennessee, I couldn’t have been more thrilled. This wedding was extra special for me because Whitney and I grew up together in Cleveland, Tennessee—she’s always been like a little sister to me. From growing up days of attending Mt. Olive Church of God and singing all together on stage, we go pretty far back. Her sister and I were childhood best friends, so capturing her wedding day was not just an honor, but also an incredibly emotional experience.
And let me tell you—Cody was beaming all day long. His groomsmen kept commenting on how excited he was to marry Whitney, and that joy was written all over his face.
A Traditional Southern Wedding in Tennessee
Whitney and Cody’s wedding was filled with beautiful, timeless traditions. They chose not to do a first look, but instead, they shared a deeply intimate moment before the ceremony—reading handwritten letters to each other while holding hands, without ever seeing each other.
This moment was incredibly emotional and heartfelt, and I could feel the love and anticipation between them. It’s moments like these that make wedding photography so meaningful—preserving these quiet, emotional exchanges so they can be relived forever.
An Emotional Celebration & Barn Reception
This wedding was full of intimate moments, and I’ll admit—I was crying behind my camera more than once! Seeing Whitney get married after knowing her for so many years made it even more special.
Their reception at Ocoee River Barn was the perfect mix of rustic charm and romantic elegance. The barn’s low lighting created a cozy, intimate ambiance, making their first dance and traditional parent dances even more special. They wrapped up their night with:
✨ A lively garter toss & bouquet throw
✨ A stunning sparkler exit
✨ And endless laughter and love shared with family & friends
Why I Love Destination Weddings in Tennessee
As a Phoenix-based destination wedding photographer, I love traveling to capture love stories in meaningful locations. Tennessee has a Southern charm that makes weddings feel warm, inviting, and deeply personal. The Ocoee River Barn in Benton, TN, was the perfect setting for a romantic and traditional wedding—surrounded by rustic beauty, soft lighting, and timeless decor.
Whether it’s a mountainside elopement, a barn wedding, or a lakeside celebration, I love capturing weddings that feel authentic to the couple.
Planning a Destination Wedding? Let’s Make It Unforgettable!
Whitney and Cody’s Tennessee destination wedding was an incredible reminder of why I love what I do. If you’re planning a wedding in Tennessee, Arizona, or beyond, I’d love to capture your story with timeless, emotional images.
Whether it’s a mountainside elopement, a barn wedding, or a lakeside celebration, I love capturing weddings that feel authentic to the couple.
