Soggy Bottom Lodge Wedding | Tuscaloosa Wedding Photographer | Chelsea + Zach
I have a beautiful outdoor wedding to share with you today. I received an inquiry for wedding photography from Chelsea back in the fall. She was so excited talking about Zach and their spring wedding at Soggy Bottom Lodge. As a wedding photographer in Tuscaloosa, their venue is a local wedding for me. It’s always so nice to drive out to the country for a wedding day, and I was very happy when I received word that I would get to work with these two on their wedding day.
Soggy Bottom Lodge is a world class hunting facility. They also host events and weddings on their property. Soggy Bottom Lodge offers first class luxury accommodations with a rustic charm to the property. You and your guests are guaranteed to see many deer during your stay at the lodge. At times, it almost feels like the deer are watching in on your festivities. When I spoke with Chelsea and Zach’s families, they were raving about the venue and accommodating staff.
The rain had been in the Saturday forecast all week. I probably checked my weather app 10 times leading up to the day. Thankfully besides a few drops during the processional, literally 10 drops of rain, sunshine filled the day. When I arrived, Chelsea was relaxing and touching up her makeup at the lodge. I took a few detail pictures of Chelsea’s wedding dress, veil, cowboy boots, and wedding rings. Then, I joined the wedding party inside the lodge for some laughs and sweet moments. The couple wrote letters to each other and there was a mix of smiles and tears as they each read each others letter in private.
The very anticipated time of the first look had arrived. Zach waited on the end of the pier on the lake at Soggy Bottom Lodge. Chelsea’s sister help escort her to the end of the pier. This first look moment did not disappoint and was filled with tears and warm embraces. I always give my couples time to enjoy the moment before continuing with formal portraits. I’m happy to help my bride’s schedule the day so that they can relax and enjoy as much time with the groom as possible.
After all the formals on the lake, it was time for the ceremony. The lawn next to the lodge was filled with wedding guests and happy chatter. The bride and groom’s family were escorted down the aisle followed by Zach and his dog wearing a bowtie. What a cute moment this was. The only thing cuter was the grinning flower girl and the shy ring bearer. Another sweet moment was Chelsea and her dad walking down the aisle. The whole ceremony was overflowing with sweetness.
Here are a few questions I asked Chelsea + Zach during the wedding planning.
Q. Why did you pick the venue?
We loved the outside feel and it’s rustic charm. Also, that the wedding party was able to stay all weekend. We are both outdoors loving people and this venue fit our style perfectly.
Q. What is your vision for your wedding day?
I want a certain rustic timeless charm to my wedding.
Zach and I met at Troy University.
That we are able to laugh and have fun with each other. We are able to get along in every situation.
Chelsea and Zach, it was such an honor to be a part of your wedding weekend. Every moment was just perfect. I loved seeing the joy on your faces at the rehearsal, the tears at the first look, and watching you dance by the lake at the sunset. It is truly special for me to have a front row seat on your wedding day. Thank you again for having me as your wedding photographer! All the best to you this year and in years to come.
The Creative Team:
Wedding Photographer: Jill Bonilla Photography / Ceremony & Reception Location: Soggy Bottom Lodge / Bride’s hair & makeup: Halle’s Salon / Band: The Whiskey River Band / Videographer: Brighton Collins
About the Photographer
Jill Bonilla is a wedding photographer and wedding videographer for hire in Birmingham, Montgomery, Huntsville, Mobile, Tuscaloosa, and beyond. She enjoys traveling the Southeast working with amazing couples. Check to see if your wedding date is available.
