Unique Alabama Motel Elopement Styled Shoot

POV: You spend months planning a big wedding only to realize it was causing you all the stress in the world and going to leave your pockets empty. So you hop in your car, hit the road, and find a vintage motel in Alabama. You get ready together with affordable but stylish pieces and a dress made by your mama and grandma. You spend time together laughing and dancing. You call your mom to tell her what you’ve decided to do. Then you head to the courthouse to get hitched to the love of your life.

I believe this is the first styled elopement I’ve ever done. When I told people what I was going to do, they would look at me like I was insane. People were literally saying “why though?” 😂 And I will admit when Craig and I pulled up to the motel in small-town Alabama to get ready for the shoot and check-in, I was thinking to myself, “why, Kels?” 😂 It maybe was not the safest choice in many definitions, but I could not be happier with the results. And this is just the first set of images. I really believe the getting ready photos are some of the most important images ESPECIALLY when you decide to get ready together. It’s a special time of anticipation and a chance to get all the little details. 🪩

Ariana and Philip were a dream to work with. I was blown away by your talents, creativity, and willingness to try anything! 👩🏻‍🍳 💋

Photographer and Creative Director: Kelsey Justice and Second Shot by Craig
Models: Ariana + Philip Pellegra
Stationer: Justice Creative Co.
Florals: Cortney Herren
Silk ribbon: Cocoon Silk Ribbons
Earrings: Bonnie Bee Designs
Dress: Designed and handmade by Ariana’s mom and grandmother
Veil and sunglasses: Amazon
Bride’s shoes: Target
Suit: Express
Men’s shoes: Aston Gray
Watch: Daniel Wellington

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