A Wedding Under the Eclipse:
Lonnie and Mark Tie the Knot Under the Solar Eclipse of 2024
As a wedding photographer for the last 8+ years, I've photographed many weddings, and this one definitely takes the cake for uniqueness!
Lonnie and Mark took their love story to a whole new level when they traveled from Illinois all the way to Arkansas to get married on April 8th under this once-in-a-lifetime event! The ceremony was part of the unique "Total Eclipse of the Heart" mass wedding in Russellville, Arkansas, where over 200 couples said their vows under the eclipse, making it a truly unforgettable experience. This eclipse, visible across parts of North America, was significant for two reasons. First, it was the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044. Second, it offered the longest duration of totality in the region since the 2017 Great American Eclipse.
The day before the ceremony, they arrived at my farm, Heritage Hill Farm, for some pre-wedding photos. We had originally planned to do all the photos on April 8th, but not knowing what to expect with the crowds in town for the eclipse, we decided for a more intimate and low-key approach at the farm. I'm so glad we did! We were able to take our time and capture some amazing photos that just wouldn't have been possible at the Russellville Soccer Complex. We went all out to create everything but the ceremony that you would have on your wedding day, from capturing them getting ready in our farmhouse to a special "first look" moment under the maple grove by the pond and some fun confetti pops to celebrate their upcoming marriage.
The wedding day itself was unlike anything I've ever seen. The eclipse added such a layer of excitement, and truly was a one-of-a-kind event. It was an honor to be a part of this unique ceremony and witness Lonnie and Mark pledge their forever under the darkening sky with all the other couples there to do the same. This was my first time experiencing a full eclipse and it was amazing! In those 4 minutes of totality, I was truly blown away by the awesomeness of my God and His creation. And we got some pretty cool photos too! After the eclipse, Lonnie and Mark snuck away to do their own personal first dance with their special song. So even though it was a mass wedding, they still added their personal touch to it.
I could honestly go on and on about the day, but I just encourage you to look through the photos because they can tell a story way better than I can with words. Congratulations again, Lonnie and Mark! May your love story continue to shine brightly, just like the sun peeking through after the eclipse.
Love this blog post? I would be thrilled if you shared it on social media or with a friend or family member and if you are a bride or groom looking for a photographer shoot me a message! I cant wait to hear all about your wedding vision and how we can capture your day in a way that uniquely and perfectly y'all.
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