Ariel | Bridals

Ariel Bridal Portraits Bellingrath Gardens Mobile Alabama

Bridal portrait sessions are some of my favorites, hands down. But they are so hard to keep to myself sometimes. I won't forget the day Ariel stepped out in her wedding gown. It took my breath away. I had not seen anything like it before. The fit & flair style (yes, I watch way to much Say Yes to the Dress) paired with her simple veil & long red curls were every photographer's dream!

Now that Ariel is Mrs. Smiley I can finally share a few of my favorites from her day of dress up. *Plus I am sharing a few tips on how to prepare for your very own bridal session...just keep reading.


Ariel Bridal Portraits Bellingrath Gardens Mobile Alabama

Goodness, this bride is goregous!


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It's like Ariel stepped into a magical secret garden for these shots. Ah so in LOVE!

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And now can we just discuss the back of her dress from I Do Bridal & Formal? It is stunning. Absolutely stunning.

Ariel Bridal Portraits Bellingrath Gardens Mobile Alabama
Ariel Bridal Portrait Session Bellingrath Gardens Mobile, Alabama

...and if these are her bridals just wait until you see the photos from her wedding day! She knocked that one out of the park, too! Stay tuned :)


Just a few friendly tips from your photographer if you are planning to book a bridal session during the fall in Mobile, Alabama:

  1. Bring a portable fan. It doesn't matter if it's the end of September, it will still be a thousand degrees outside. That mixed with 10 layers of fabric...trust me, you'll want a fan.
  2. Stay hydrated & bring a little something to eat beforehand. You will fit into your dress, I promise. Plus I don't need you passing out on me.
  3. Bring your sweet momma (or best friend). Having an extra set of hands is soooo helpful. They will be there to help you laugh, to wipe away the sweat, to fluff out your train, to hold your veil...and the list goes on.
  4. But most of all remember to have fun! This is your time to play dress up before the big day. Schedule a trial run with hair & makeup. Walk around in your shoes. Your only job is to relax & smile because the next time you put on your dress will be your wedding day that you've only dreamed about.

Bride's Dress: I Do Bridal & Formal Mobile, Alabama

Bridal Portrait Location: Bellingrath Gardens & Home Theodore, Alabama

Ring: Hayes Jewelers

Florals: Sharon Summerlin with Costco

Olivia | Bridals

"So this is love, so this is what makes life divine." - Cinderella

Olivia reminded me of a Disney princess with her elegance & stunning gown. She married her prince charming on March 25th, so now I can share these images - aaahh finally!

I'm just in love with this Japanese Magnolia. Aren't you?! Thank you spring for your sweet buds.



*Special thanks to the The University of Alabama Arboretum for the most lovely background to compliment this bridal session.


Hair & Makeup: Joanna at Phenix Salon Suites - Tuscaloosa, AL

The Galloways | October 1st, 2016

Natalie & Ryan gathered, along with family & friends, on the first Saturday in October to celebrate their wedding day. 


Natalie & her girls got ready on St. George Island in a cozy beach cottage which made for a nice relaxed setting for hair & makeup. 


The ceremony took place at Lafayette Park in Apalachicola, Florida.

The couple shared their vows underneath a gorgeous oak laced with Spanish moss. 


The celebration continued with dancing & cake of course over at Rivercrest Lodge in Apalachicola, Florida. 


The Rivers | August 13th, 2016

Tabbata & Josh were married on Saturday, August 13th, 2016. Tabbata & her girls got ready in The Admiral Hotel located in downtown Mobile. We'd later return to celebrate the newlyweds for their reception in the grand ballroom. 

Isn't she a stunning bride?!

The City Church in Mobile served as the backdrop for their wedding ceremony. 

They had such a fun bridal party! And dealt with a typical Mobile afternoon shower like champs!

Normally, I am dragging laughter out of people. But not these two, I couldn't get them to stop! And I LOVED IT! 

Congrats Mr. & Mrs. Rivers! Thanks for allowing DMP to be a part of your day!


Ceremony: The City Church Mobile, Alabama | Reception Venue: The Admiral Hotel

Hair & Makeup Artist: K. Courtney Matthews

The Taylors | June 11th, 2016

Hannah & Kyle were wed on Saturday, June 11th, 2016 at the Citronelle Community Center. 

And let me just say, despite the little rain shower moments before the ceremony, their wedding was absolutely perfect. Hannah chose to go simple considering the outdoor venue & sprinkled touches of purple here & there. Kyle & his men looked oh so handsome in their navy suits.  

Here are a few of my favorites from the day! 

Her girls were flawless & hilarious. 

Can we just take a moment to take in the gorgeous venue & her dress?!