Swan Coach House Wedding
When life throws lemons straight into your wedding plans, you pivot like champs and make delicious Italian lemon wedding cookies {baked by the bride herself}. Emma & Thomas decided to change their Asheville wedding plans after hurricane Helene came through and this year, they hosted their ceremony at the gorgeous Swan Coach House. With the magic of their incredible planner (shoutout to Carina at Raleigh Weddings), Thomas & Emma’s original Asheville plans shifted and they turned Atlanta into the perfect backdrop for part one of their celebration.
This wedding was extra special to me because I adore Emma & Thomas. I met them last year at another Asheville wedding with Caroline & Connor where Thomas was in the wedding party. Working with friends of friends of couples is super fun, because if we’re a good match then I know your friends will be too!
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Getting Ready for a Swan Coach House Wedding
I’ve been at the Swan House before {see Sedrick & Cliff’s wedding day here!} but not at this location specifically. This spot is a much smaller venue and is so pretty. It was perfect for Emma & Thomas since they had to make such a last minute switch for their event. I love the vibes of this garden. After preparing for the day, Emma had a first look with her dad and brother, as well as some with her friend and maid of honor. I love that we had the chance to capture what was important to Emma & Thomas!
Wedding at Swan Coach House in Atlanta
Emma & Thomas held their ceremony in the courtyard of the Swan Coach House. It was an emotional affair – lots of tears everywhere {but happy tears!}. I love when people let down their guard and are able to be fully present with their emotions in front of the camera. It’s always one of my favorite things. In fact, I aim to blend in enough to where I can capture what’s going on – and being in a safe space is important to me. Emma & Thomas had a friend officiate the ceremony, too, which always makes the big moment even more special.
PS. Check out my Swan House wedding guide!
Right after the ceremony, Emma & Thomas enjoyed a special sweet treat with their guests. The morning of the wedding, Emma made Italian wedding cookies. Paired with punch, everyone had time to mingle during their almost cocktail hour outside the Swan Coach House. It just showed me how much Emma & Thomas love their community and giving back to everyone.
Swan Coach House Wedding Portraits
Following the ceremony and sweet treat, I pulled Emma & Thomas away for portraits around the venue. I enjoyed just following the two of them around as we chased the sun. We captured some truly magical portraits as the sun was setting through the trees and it felt so romantic!
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Barcelona Wine Bar Reception in Atlanta GA
Emma switched into a second stunning dress {with the cutest big bow!}, and we headed to Barcelona Wine Bar for an intimate dinner and mini reception. I freaking love an outfit change in the middle of the day. It’s fantastic and always a fun way to show off more of your personality! Much like the Swan Coach House, the wine bar turned out to be a perfect fit for this change of plans. I love that it was a different vibe than their ceremony, but it was still a great place for their mini reception.
Emma & Thomas had the most fun temporary tattoos with their dog’s face and wedding date, which everyone kept putting on. It was hilarious and such a great bonding moment. After appetizers, lots of wine, and a couple of speeches, the night came to an end.
Next year, they’ll have part two of their incredible celebration in Asheville, and I can’t wait! Congratulations again, Emma & Thomas – I’m so happy I was with you for part one of your celebration. I love that you got two days to celebrate your love story!
Atlanta GA Wedding Vendors
Planner: Raleigh Weddings
Venue: Swan Coach House
Reception Venue: Barcelona Wine Bar
Florist: Snake Song Shop
Caterer: Sage and Spice Catering
Cake/Dessert: Publix
DJ/Band/Musician: Disco Boxx
Beauty: Anarie Beauty
Dress: White Magnolia Bridal
