Abbie and Richard celebrated with a rainy wedding weekend in Mobile, AL. The rain made the entire event feel cozy. This wedding weekend was truly unforgettable! I photographed their rehearsal dinner at Richard’s mother’s home and then spent Saturday documenting their beautiful wedding day.

The Rehearsal Dinner

The weekend began at a family home in Mobile, AL. Friends and family gathered to celebrate even as steady rain moved through the city. Everyone laughed, told stories, and enjoyed the night before the wedding. There were heartfelt speeches, warm fires, freshly rolled sushi and very talented musicians to set the mood. It was the perfect way to kick off a weekend full of love and celebration.

Getting Ready at The Battle House Hotel

On Saturday, I arrived at The Battle House Hotel where Abbie was getting ready. The hotel was decorated for Christmas, including a huge tree in the lobby, which fit perfectly with their color palette of gold, plum, crimson, wine, and deep green. The soft holiday touches gave the whole morning a warm and elegant feel.

Inside the suite, Abbie had all her meaningful details waiting for me. I photographed the typical wedding details such as the dress and invitation and some special details like Abbie’s aunt’s sapphire ring and the groom’s ring that was originally his father’s, engraved with his parents’ wedding date and with Abbie and Richard’s wedding date added. Her mom and sister helped the bride get ready. Their closeness made this part of the morning especially sweet.

Once Abbie was ready, my second photographer and I met Richard in the lobby for a few portraits. We tucked the bride away, just out of sight until we were ready to photograph their first look at The Battle House.

First Look at The Battle House

Rain continued throughout the morning, so we took advantage of the elegant indoor areas of The Battle House for a few bride and groom portraits. The hotel’s architecture, Christmas tree, and warm lighting created a romantic atmosphere. They looked incredibly happy and relaxed around each other!

Arriving at the Church

When we arrived at St Paul’s Little White Church on Old Shell Road, the rain paused just long enough for outdoor bride and groom portraits. We also captured some family photos outside before the sun began to set. It was the perfect surprise break in the weather.

The Ceremony

Guests began arriving as the sky darkened. The ceremony started after sunset, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere inside the church. The service was simple and heartfelt including a gift for the bride and groom from the officiant! Abbie and Richard walked out to cheers and a dip kiss in the aisle. The two signed their marriage certificate and then traveled to the reception. After the ceremony, Abbie changed into a second dress at the reception. Instead of bustling her long sleeve gown with a train, she transitioned her into her new look which was equally beautiful.

Reception at The Athelstan Club

Guests lined up inside the Athelstan Club with LED ribbon wands to welcome the newlyweds. The entered the reception through the elevator doors, down the aisle of waiving ribbons and cheers and straight to the dance floor for formal dances. Dinner and bar were available all night to guests. Then came the cake cutting when we all agreed that it’d be best if Abbie cut the cake because of a little incident the night before, haha.

A Photo Booth added even more fun and gave guests another way to celebrate throughout the night. The Christmas touches, the joy from their families, and the energy from the band made the entire reception feel timeless and festive.

The band kept the energy high all night and a packed dance floor. They were fantastic, and Richard proved he could dance, including a moment where he dropped into the splits and the entire room went wild.

A Weekend Full of Joy

The reception continued until around eleven. Despite the rain, or maybe because of it, the entire weekend felt extra intimate and meaningful. Abbie and Richard embraced every moment. Their families celebrated them with so much love. Their friends kept the night lively from start to finish.

It was an honor to photograph this beautiful rainy wedding weekend in Mobile, AL with Abbie & Richard.

Cheers to the newly Mr. and Mrs. Lyon!