Brandi and Rudy’s summer wedding at The Berry Barn was a beautiful event, exceeding all of my expectations! The rustic barn was the perfect backdrop to the wedding’s blush pink and dark blue tones. Chosen because it was a unique venue that no one she knew had used, The Berry Barn fit perfectly into the rustic yet elegant barn vibe that Brandi was going for. It was the perfect night to not only celebrate these two sweet souls but to also celebrate LSU’s 7th National Championship – Geaux Tigers!
The Berry Barn offers some amazing spaces for both the bride and the groom to get ready for their special day. The bridal suite is so bright and airy, with a wall of windows on one side and a wall of mirrors on the other. Not only is it comfortable and convenient, being attached to the main event space, but it also served as the perfect spot for Brandi and her bridesmaids to enjoy cotton candy champagne in their matching pajamas. Meanwhile, Rudy and his guys were toasting with shots of fireball. During this pre-ceremony time, Brandi and Rudy also exchanged meaningful gifts.
Before the ceremony, which was held in an outdoor space behind the barn an hour before sunset in the perfect lighting, Brandi and Rudy wanted to exchange letters and hold hands without seeing each other. We arranged a setup with their backs facing the barn doors, allowing them to exchange their letters with each other. I love when couples choose to do something like this in place of a first look. It gives them a way to help calm each other without breaking the tradition of not seeing each other until the ceremony.
The ceremony was really sweet, especially seeing Rudy get overwhelmed with emotion when he saw Brandi for the first time. Capturing emotional groom reactions is always a highlight and Rudy’s was certainly in the top 10! Following the ceremony, we took the opportunity to capture some gorgeous portraits just as the sun dipped below the property’s surrounding trees.
Bonnie from Champagne Events in Morgan City deserves special mention for flawlessly bringing Brandi’s vision to life and keeping everyone on schedule. With pink and white floral arrangements by Dale’s Florist, twinkle lights, and tasteful touches of gold, the venue was warm and inviting, allowing the guests to mingle and enjoy their evening. The delicious catering by Cypress Island Eatz even included a late-night snack of grilled cheese sandwiches!
It’s safe to say that witnessing the union of these two amazing people was truly a heartwarming experience. They undeniably deserve all the love and happiness in the world and it’s evident that they’ve found their soulmates in each other. Because the wedding was out of town, my sister and I wound up staying at the same hotel as the rest of the guests. After the festivities, Mrs. Twana, Rudy’s mom, kindly offered me a ride home, giving me the opportunity to have a wonderful conversation with her. WHile I often meet the Mother-of-the-Bride at bridal sessions or initial consultations, it’s rare to spend quality time with the Mother-of-the-Groom. Mrs. Twana shared how she instantly knew Brandi was the girl any mother would pray her son would find someday. As a mom myself, it was heartening to connect with another mother who had gone through the challenge of raising a son and now witnessed him finding a loving and adoring wife.
Brandi and Rudy – I truly couldn’t be any happier for the two of you and I’ve enjoyed every step of this journey with you both as well as with your families!
THE DETAILS:
Prep, Ceremony, Reception: The Berry Barn at Liuzza Farm
Decor and Coordinator: Champagne Events, Bonnie Knobloch
Wedding Dress: Blush Bridal
Hair and Make-Up: Carley Gravois, Olivia Blanchard, Melanie Trab
Bridesmaids Dresses: Blush Bridal
Invitations: Grey House Paper
Florist: Dale’s Florist
Groom’s Attire: Men’s Warehouse
Cake: Kimbla’s Cakes
DJ: DJ Snoop
Catering: Cypress Island Eatz
Videographer: In His Image Photography
Live Painter: Morgan Barranco Art
Second Photographer: Amanda Broussard
