Hazen's wedding at the Orchards Wedding Venue

Ceremony outside in front of a white house.

We had the absolute pleasure of photographing Rachel and Jimmy's wedding at the Orchards venue in Molino Florida. I loved every part of this venue. The outdoor charm was something out of a southern wedding type of magazine....simply gorgeous. The greenery, flowers and aesthetic made for the most perfect wedding day!

Number One Tip for Future Phocus Couples to Consider About The Wedding Day:

Mingle with your guests! We know the day is for us but it means nothing without them and their support. Make a point to spend time with everyone as best you can. They came to celebrate you and it means a lot to them to say hi. Plus there will be some guests who won't be able to make it and we think it's important to cherish those who came.

What moment were you most looking forward to seeing in the photos/video?

The confetti aisle shot! After looking through your work and blogs, I couldn't wait to see how my shot came out. You have a talent for capturing the fun action shots with confetti, petals, or sparklers. I think those moments exemplify the joy of that day and add a candid touch as you react to being hit in the face hahaha! -Rachel

Bride and groom walking under rose petals after ceremony.

The ceremony rose petal exit WILL and forever will be my favorite! It's romantic, fun and downright DREAMY in photos. Highly recommend!

What moment were you most looking forward to seeing in the photos/video?

Everything. Seeing the things I didn't get to see because I was distracted or elsewhere. -Jimmy

How did you two meet? (Tell us all those little details!)

We met using a dating app. We immediately connected over our love for Halloween and costumes, and had our first date at our favorite wine bar in downtown Mobile where we talked until they closed. It was so nice to connect with someone so easily and someone who enjoyed wine and food as much as me! But what's funny is how many times we probably met and never knew! We both went to the same college, frequented the same restaurants and bars, went to the same local concerts, and have mutual friends. Funny how things work out in the end!

Tell us about THE dress! What made you fall in love?

There is so much hype around finding THE dress. It was an intimidating process. The first sites and shop I tried really got me discouraged. I had a vision in mind but it wasn't a common style. I met Bliss Bridal at a bridal expo and they were so sweet and booked me an appointment. That appointment was perfect! Their salon in Fairhope is amazing! Full of beautiful gowns, friendly faces, champagne, and my dress!! I fell in love with the layers of tulle and organza, cinched waist, and classic white look. I truly felt like a bride for the first time. And I was surrounded my mom, good friend, and the supportive ladies at Bliss. I couldn't believe I found it and looked at my pictures wearing it for months until I could put it back on!

What was your first dance song, and why did you choose it?

Truly, Madly, Deeply by Savage Garden. We made a playlist of possible songs and narrowed them down together. We actually didn't realize the other loved the song as much as we did and had to share it together!

Describe what you felt when you saw your bride on your wedding day:

Emotional. -Jimmy

Describe what you felt when you saw your groom on your wedding day:

Happy. In disbelief that today was the day we planned for for so long! -Rachel

What was the most emotional part of the day for you?

First Look. I'm really glad we did this. Not only was it special to share such a private, intimate moment together, but it really helped to calm my nerves. I cried a lot while reading my vows to him. I think this moment was when it set in that we were about to get married. All my stress, nerves, and excitement culminated and poured out here. -Rachel

Groom sees bride for the first time on wedding day.

What was the most emotional part of the day for you?

First Look. I got choked up while reading my vows which is unusual for me. She looked so beautiful and I couldn't believe we finally got to this moment we planned for to share our lives together. -Jimmy

What is ONE moment of your day that you will always remember?

The ceremony mishaps. The officiant accidentally called Jimmy "her", a bee came for the bridesmaids flowers, we couldn't get the ring all the way on Rachel's finger, the best man stomping around in the rocks for his microphone. All these moments made our ceremony truly special, candid, and just really humorous. We loved it!

Favorite part of the Phocus Experience?

Your attention to detail and us. We weren't a number or another client. We were a bride and groom that were given attention and care. Oh and Tim of course!! From the moment we met the Phocus team to the moment of I do, Tim has remained kind, gentle, fun, selfless, and professional. He made our whole experience easy and carefree. During the wedding day he guided us through like a true expert. He can be demanding, which we needed sometimes, but still in a kind way. And he took care of us. Held flowers, pinned the bustle, placed the veil, got us drinks, just checked in to see how we were doing. It was so relieving to have a smiling, supportive face to turn to. Everyone has also commented how efficient, professional, and fun he was to work with. And we couldn't agree more! Plus, you have wonderful relationships with other vendors. Our wedding felt so personalized in every way.

If you haven't met Jimmy and Rachel, youre definitely missing out. They are two of the nicest humans and were so enjoyable to hang out with on their wedding day!