A Sentimental Summer Wedding at Awbury Arboretum

Some weddings just feel different in the best way—and Jessa & Dan’s summer wedding was one of those days.

From the moment I stepped into the bridal suite, I could tell I was in the presence of something special. The room was filled with cozy energy, excited laughter, and a bridal party that felt more like a sisterhood. Everyone was happy to be there—and trust me, they should have been.

Jessa, the bride, is one of the most selfless people I’ve had the pleasure of working with. Even on her big day, she was talking with her bridesmaids about their upcoming weddings and engagements. The level of love, support, and mutual hype in that room was unmatched. The flower girls were absolutely mesmerized by her—peeking around corners to catch a glimpse as she got dolled up, and pressing their faces to the upstairs window to witness her magical first look.

The weather? Let’s just say the forecast delivered the full range of summer drama—90 degrees, high humidity, and one quick but dramatic downpour. Just minutes before the first look, the skies opened up for a five-minute flash storm, and then, like magic, it cleared. We still got the outdoor first look Jessa had dreamed of, and it was every bit as magical as you’d hope.

One of my favorite parts of the day? The bridesmaids knew exactly how to set the mood. They played “Slipping Through My Fingers” to get everyone in their feels, and when Jessa started to get a little overwhelmed, they seamlessly shifted the playlist to something calmer, bringing the energy back to center.

This was my very first CaraBella Events wedding, and while I was definitely nervous, this amazing group of women—and the fabulous vendor team—reminded me I was exactly where I’m meant to be. From start to finish, the day was a beautiful reflection of Jessa and her people—thoughtful, joyful, emotional, and real.