Madison & Nik

There are so many things I'd like to start with, but the first and foremost is how much I came to just love this couple. Their one of the most thoughtful couples I've worked with so far and I was so excited when their day finally rolled around and I got to celebrate with them.

My journey with Nik and Maddy started in May of 2021 when Nik called me about possibly capturing their day. It was a great conversation from the start. We got their engagement session in the books that following October. It was not the ideal weather for Maddy who's a Fall girl through and through. It was hot and sunny, but ya'll we still had so much fun and they got some beautiful images, especially amongst the pumpkins.

Leading up to their big day, I would get the sweetest random text messages from Nik checking on James and me to see how we were doing and to know that they were thinking of us. Melted my heart.

They picked the perfect spot to have their wedding at The Renaissance Wine Gardens in Foristell, Missouri. It was like a fairytale. And the first look..... 🥰😭 When Nik heard Maddy's voice the tears started and when she saw her for the first time in her dress the waterworks began. Madison and Nik were both gorgeous on their wedding day. Even I got weepy.

We captured their couple's portraits. Maddy was a trooper walking up and down a hill over rocks in her dress to get to the ideal spot. The wedding party was great. I'm not saying Nik got picked up and tossed around a bit, but she might have.

Before the ceremony, the couple and wedding party disappeared to the winery. My hubby showed up for the ceremony and when he walked in to say hi to the group waiting, Nik got the biggest smile, rushed over, and took a selfie with James. Now, let me tell you, when I arrived that morning at their gorgeous AirB&B, lugging all my gear, crawling around on the floor at one point, going up and down stairs, I got a hug, but no rush for a selfie. I made my hurt feeling known after the ceremony and Nik quickly rushed to take a selfie with me. We might have cut Maddy out of that one. LOL!

Back to my story, it was Madison's turn for tears as she walked down the aisle to Nik. Beautiful and eyes brimming. Once they were announced, Mrs. and Mrs. Ratliff. The two exited, got into the back of my and James' truck and we drove them up to the winery so the venue could be set up for the reception.

While waiting we had a drink, got a few more pictures, and then I ended up wearing my drink. That's what happens when someone does something unexpected, I try to quickly get a photo of it and forget I have a drink in my hand. 😂

From there it was dinner, cake, dancing, and some great pictures of the lights in the night. I'm so happy I got to be a part of your day and that you all reached out to me 17 months ago. I pray for countless blessings in your marriage. Love you both! Hugs you two!