A Sunrise Wedding in the Mountains: Dalton & Lauren’s Intimate Winter Ceremony


Every once in a while, a story is so sacred, so deeply rooted in love and faith, that it draws you back in. Though I no longer photograph weddings, I stepped out of retirement for one extraordinary reason: Dalton and Lauren’s sunrise wedding in Mountain City, TN.


Held on February 15, 2025, with only 20 close friends and family in attendance, this mountain-top ceremony was one of the most powerful and spirit-led events I’ve ever photographed.



A Sunrise Ceremony With Heaven’s Timing


As the sky lightened over the Blue Ridge, Dalton and Lauren stood before a wooden cross to say their vows. The sun rose directly behind them, just as Lauren walked down the aisle—timing we couldn’t have planned more perfectly. They exchanged handwritten vows, washed each other’s feet, and even branded a cowhide, honoring both heritage and covenant.


And then, the moment they said “I do” and sealed it with a kiss—the skies opened up and it began to pour.


Not drizzle. Not a mist. It poured.


It was as if the heavens were saying, “You’ve got your moment. Now let the rest fall away.” We quickly wrapped up portraits under umbrellas and a covered porch, and their joy never wavered. The rain only added to the story—uncontrollable, wild, and beautifully symbolic of the adventure ahead.



Meaningful Details, Intimate Joy


This wedding wasn’t about production or perfection. It was about presence. From a shared moment of prayer before the ceremony—without a first look—to their son standing close during their vows, every piece of the day was intentional.


Following the ceremony, they hosted a simple brunch reception: first dance, family dance, cake cutting, and laughter under shelter from the rain. It was honest, warm, and unforgettable.



Why I Came Out of Wedding Retirement


I don’t photograph weddings anymore, but this wasn’t just a wedding. It was a testimony. Lauren and Dalton’s love—anchored in humility and Christ—reminded me why I picked up a camera in the first place.


Their session embodied everything I believe photography should be: emotive, meaningful, and centered on connection.



Still Searching for a Boone or Mountain City Photographer?


While I’m no longer booking weddings, I continue to offer senior, family, and lifestyle sessions throughout Boone, Blowing Rock, and Mountain City, TN. I specialize in natural light photography rooted in story, faith, and the beauty of the Blue Ridge.


📸 Visit laurelphoto.com to view my work or inquire about booking a session.

A young ring bearer in a beige suit and cowboy hat makes silly poses during a wedding photoshoot.
Close up of elegant blonde wedding hairstyle with braided details and soft curls.
Log cabin wedding venue deck decorated with string lights overlooking mountain views at dusk.
Wooden log cabin exterior with wrap-around deck and string lights during an evening event.
Three people in cowboy hats stand on wooden deck at sunset with string lights overhead and mountain views in background.
Wedding ceremony on a rustic cabin deck with mountain views and string lights.
A rustic wooden deck with string lights and a cross during sunset at an outdoor ceremony in the mountains.
Panoramic view of an outdoor mountain wedding ceremony with string lights at sunset.
Wedding ceremony setup on a deck with string lights and cross altar against mountain backdrop.
Black and white photo of wedding ceremony on rustic deck with mountain landscape.
A group gathers for a wedding photo in front of a wooden cross on an outdoor deck overlooking mountains in the background.
Black and white wedding photography captures intimate dance moments from multiple angles in a heartfelt celebration.
Wedding photos against a greenery wall with glowing neon sign decorations.
Wedding cake with peach roses and eucalyptus leaves on a white stand near a window in natural lighting.
A freshly baked braided challah bread loaf on a wooden cutting board with soft lighting.