[dropcap]W[/dropcap]hen we woke up on Saturday, the weather was not what anyone hopes for on their wedding day! But, Callie was just as calm as ever! She said that it would all work out! And that is the sign of an amazing bride. Because once the party is over, the most important thing is that you have started your married life. We made backup plans and the show must go on!!! When I walked into Callie’s getting ready room, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love that I was witnessing. From Callies sentimental gifts to her Papa and Nana, to Callie tearfully read her letter from Mark! I could tell this day was not going to be lacking in details and emotion!

I watched as Callie’s Nana helped her slip into her gorgeous gown! She makes sure that every little detail was perfect before calling her Papa upstairs. Callie and her Papa share the sweetest first look. But the tears really start when Papa opens his gift from Callie. He was very concerned that he didn’t have a tie on, so it was only fitting that Callie’s gift to him was a tie. However, this wasn’t just any tie!! This tie had a very special surprise. A picture of Callie and her Papa was sown on the back. Below the picture was a special note for her Papa. “Thank you for walking by my side today and always. I loved you first”! I don’t think anyone could hold back the tears at this point! Callie’s Papa then told the entire room the sentimental meaning behind this picture. It was Callie’s first time at their family reunion! It just so happened to be at Edisto Island! He then looked at Callie and said “Your first family reunion was in South Carolina, and now you are starting your own family in South Carolina”! Gosh Papa, we all should have worn waterproof mascara!!

Callie and Mark’s love story began in Virginia! But work took them to opposite states, and they continued their story long distance. Callie is a nurse, caring and smart! Mark serves our country in the military!! Could these two selfless people be more fitting? I think not! But what gets me the most, is the way I watched Mark light up when he saw Callie for the first time. True and absolute love!

Callie and Mark’s original plan was to get married under the Oaks at Smythe park. They decided to share their intimate wedding with 10 people and their 2 pups! However, because of the weather, we made some adjustments. Now when I say weather, this wasn’t just a little rain. There was lightening and the sky was about to fall out! So the only option was to move their ceremony indoors. Thankfully Callie’s apartment complex had an office space, and her sweet friends quickly moved everything inside. We all watched as Callie and Mark tearfully said their vows and officially became Mr and Mrs Tayrein!

Callie and Mark, thank you for asking me to be a part of your special day! I felt honored to be one of the very few that was able to watch your love story come full circle. Best wishes on an amazing journey in life together!! And come back to Charleston in a year so we can do anniversary portraits!!

 Reception Venue | Sermet’s

Florist | Roadside Blooms

Makeup & Hair |Wild Ivory Beauty

Dress |Mount Pleasant Bridal Boutique