Laura and terence

Updated: Jul 25, 2022

Bride and groom holding each other in front of the Hotel Effie in Destin

When we showed up to the Hotel Effie, everyone was so laid back and chill. Laura was smiling from ear to ear and the day got off to an amazing start. We absolutely LOVE photographing weddings at and near this hotel. The beautiful columns and scenery make for the most gorgeous shots when it comes to your wedding day photos.

Number One Tip for Future Phocus Couples to Consider About The Wedding Day: Stay present at the moment and try to soak it all in!

SOAK. IT. ALL. IN! Laura was ready for a PARTYYY on their day! She was so excited and full of jitters. Not to mention, she was down for anything. When I saw the bridesmaids had matching outfits, I knew this would be the perfect group to do a champagne pop to start off all the shenanigans.

Bride popping champagne with bridesmaids while laughing.

What moment were you most looking forward to seeing in the photos/video? First Look and bridal party- Laura

Bride and groom laughing while walking with bridal party.

What moment were you most looking forward to seeing in the photos/video? First look and couple pictures -Terence

How did you two meet? (Tell us all those little details!) We met on Tinder (Modern Love Story)

When we met Laura, she was excited, smiling non stop and just happy the day had finally come. Terence was excited, but yet a man of few words. BUT... When time came for the ceremony, I was honestly quite surprised. The way he shared his vows with Laura was so heartfelt. In that moment, I knew his love for her was something special.

Groom wrapping his arms around bride while laughing.

Tell us about THE dress! What made you fall in love? I bought the dress at Schaffers, Enzoani is the designer. I found the dress online and it was the first dress I tried on and I knew I loved it!

Bride walking with bouquet at Hotel Effie.

Laura's classy, yet timeless gown was STUNNING! The lace on top made for the most perfect outdoor terrace ceremony.

What was your first dance song, and why did you choose it? I Can't Help Falling in Love with you by Hailey Reinhart. We chose it because I think we both couldn't help catching feelings and falling in love with each other even though neither and I had plans to do so.

Bride and groom slow dancing during their reception.

Describe what you felt when you saw your bride on your wedding day: I was speechless, I thought she was going to look beautiful, but she was so gorgeous and beaming. She is a beautiful person inside and out. -Terence

Describe what you felt when you saw your groom on your wedding day: I was emotional. I tried just to smile and laugh so that I didn't cry. I saw tears in his eyes for the first time ever, which was very heartfelt. He was looking so dapper and handsome! - Laura

Bride and groom walking and laughing in front of Hotel Effie sign.

What was the most emotional part of the day for you? Walking down the aisle and hearing Terence's vows were very emotional. -Laura

What was the most emotional part of the day for you? Hearing her vows and seeing her walk down the aisle. Also seeing her during our first look. -Terence

There's something about brides and grooms writing their own vows. Don't get me wrong... it's not for everyone. BUT when they write from their heart on how they fell about the person they're standing across from and pledging their life to, there's just something so raw and special about it. When Laura and Terence both said their vows to each other, there were smiles all across that ceremony.

What is ONE moment of your day that you will always remember? Walking down the aisle after the ceremony, Dancing the night away and seeing each other for the first time during the first look.

Bride and groom dancing during reception.

I can 100% say that Terence and Laura brought the party! When we found out our good friend Josh over at Highlight Weddings & Events was DJing for the night, I KNEW it would be a night to remember. When I say his mixes are FIREEE... I mean F.I.R.E! He kept people on the dance floor even after we left.

Having Terence and Laura surrounded by all their closest friends and family on the wedding day was nothing short of amazing. Everyone was so welcoming and kind and made our job so easy!

Congrats to Mr. and Mrs. Cullen!!

Favorite part of the Phocus Experience? How experienced and knowledged the team was, also how prepared they were. They had supplies on hand for anything you could think of.

Here are some of our favorite from the day!