My friends Andrew and Stephanie just had the most. amazing. wedding (read: party!) at River John’s Outfitters in Maryville, Tennessee.

Like many other couples over the past year and a half, Stephanie and Andrew actually signed their papers in 2020 at the Knox County Courthouse and decided to have their ceremony and reception a year later when the world seemed a little safer. I was lucky and honored to be asked to photograph both occasions!

River John’s Outfitters is an absolutely amazing space, and it was 100% perfect for their wedding. Stephanie and Andrew frequent the small island during the summer for kayaking and floating down the river. So it was natural and fitting that they chose this same spot to publicly say their vows and celebrate with friends.

Stephanie and her father paddled down the river in a canoe to arrive at the ceremony location. (I have always wanted to photograph a couple in a canoe! It just seems dreamy, right?) Then Stephanie walked up the bank with her father to meet Andrew under a large, wooden arbor.

The ceremony was held under the shade of large, old trees and lush bamboo swaying in the breeze. They were joined only by close family, and their friend and officiant, Mir. They said their heartfelt vows with the sunlight streaming through the trees and the sound of the river gently flowing and bubbling in the background. 

After the ceremony, the amazing party began! Steph and Andrew had more friends and family join for the reception, which included a taco bar from Simpl, beer from Alliance Brewing Company, homemade macarons from JEM Macarons, and a playlist on vinyl with Captain Ed.

Everyone was invited to dance the night away, including The Chicken Dance especially for Stephanie’s mom, and camp (ie: crash) on the island afterwards. Being the couple of the day, Stephanie and Andrew got to stay in the island bungalow instead of sleeping on the ground!

Congratulations to Stephanie and Andrew! You are both uniquely suited for each other. You challenge each other to be better in so many ways and bring out the best in each other. I wish you many more adventures and many happy years together!