Shelby + Derek • Boerne, Texas

From the moment that I met up with Derek and Shelby for their engagement session, I loved them. I don’t think that I have ever seen a man adore a woman the way that Derek adores Shelby. When capturing wedding images, my goal is to tell the unique love story of the couple, to freeze in time the way she looks at him or the way he holds her hand. With Derek and Shelby, it was impossible NOT to capture their genuine love and admiration for each other.

Derek and Shelby met on a blind date in high school. A date that Shelby didn’t even realize was a date. Derek’s best friend (and Best Man), Colton, set them up and it was Shelby’s best friend (and Maid of Honor), Cassidy, who pushed her to go out with Derek a second time. They had a bit of a rough start. On their second date, Derek spit a sesame seed at Shelby during dinner, she slammed his head in the door when he tried to be polite and close it for her, and then she proceeded to hit him in the face when the horror movie they were watching scared her. Even so, that second date ended with their first kiss. Derek knew when he was in high school that Shelby was the one, his one and only. That was 8 years ago. Over the years, they have both grown and changed, but their love has only become stronger.

When Derek and Shelby are together, they have an ease and familiarity that comes from knowing and loving each other for so long. This effortlessness sets everyone around them at ease.  Their day was overflowing with joy, as the love between the two of them spills onto everyone around them. It is contagious. Spending time with Derek, Shelby and their families as the dreams of marriage were realized was so special to me. Thank you Derek and Shelby for inviting us into your love story!!
-Jenn

PS – Shelby + Derek’s wedding ceremony and wedding reception were held at our favorite hill country venue — Sisterdale Dance Hall and Opera House in Boerne, Texas. Love it there!
When Derek was asked to write a list of his future goals in high school, one of them was “Shelby”. He kept his list for all of these years. Just before their wedding day when he went to look for it so he could bring it with him on their wedding day, he discovered that Shelby had already tucked it away to bring with her on their big day!Derek’s reaction was my favorite part of the day. He was absolutely overwhelmed when he turned around to see his gorgeous bride. I could see that this was a moment that he had been dreaming of for years and years. The reality of actually living in the moment with the love of his life brought him to his knees. This is why photographing weddings is so special to me. To be invited into a moment so precious is an honor and a privilege. A bridal party who laughs at my ridiculous jokes = WINNING!!
Sisterdale Dance Hall has the cutest outdoor space for a wedding ceremony!
Outdoor wedding ceremony at Sisterdale Dance Hall? Yessss!
Shelby’s sister’s rapped their toast and it was amazing! If you have been following our blog for a while, you may remember that I rapped my toast at Kaylinn’s wedding. As soon as I heard that Holly and Taylor would be doing the same thing, I got butterflies of nervousness for them. Let me tell you from experience, it takes some gut to do this!!!  We even used the same song as our inspiration, Fresh Prince of BelAir. LOVE!!!!!The surprises just kept coming, Derek serenaded Shelby with “She’s like Texas”. It was such a sweet moment and just made me love them more. 

Derek + Shelby, we heart you guys! It’s safe to say we will NEVER forget your wedding day. Thank you for inviting us into your lives and letting us capture these moments!

 

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Wedding Ceremony: Sisterdale Dancehall, Boerne TX
Wedding Reception: Sisterdale Dancehall, Boerne TX
Bride’s Hair: Jessica Cozart, Blue Moon Salon
Bride’s Makeup: The Makeup Maven, San Antonio TX
Bride’s Dress: Mikaella
Bride’s Shoes: Bella Belle
Bridesmaid Dresses: Mori Lee
Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Jos. A Bank
Wedding Cake: Sophie’s Bakery
Floral: HEB Blooms
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Bend the Light Photography specializes in wedding photography and engagement portrait photography in San Antonio, Texas and surrounding areas. San Antonio Wedding Photographer.

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