It was my privilege and joy to shoot the wedding of Navy Lieutenant Andrew and Emily Nesburg a few months ago in Galveston, Texas. Although the couple originally met in the bride’s home state of Washington when Andrew was stationed there, their first Texas date was at Moody Gardens Aquarium. I mean, what better way to say “Let’s fall into deep, deep love” than with a visit to an actual underwater wonderland, right?! Well, just like the tide that always returns to shore, the couple revisited Moody Gardens for their July 2019 wedding. Andrew came decked out in his military uniform, but he and Emily visited their same “tuxedoed friend” during their formal photos at the Penguin Encounter. Not your typical photo op for the Gulf Coast!
Deep, deep love at Moody Gardens Aquarium
Penguin encounter for couple’s formals
Following the lead of bucking traditional customs, Emily allowed Andrew a “First Look” on their wedding day. After putting on that perfect dress, but before her march down the aisle, she and husband-to-be had a private moment -- or as private as a moment can be when the photographer is there!
Now Andrew’s hometown in Galveston County is known for being hot and humid all summer, so the couple opted for an all-indoor event to avoid that summer sun. They instead brought the warmth they were craving with their gorgeous rose-gold color scheme. This trendy and classy choice of hue reflected smiles of guests as they enjoyed all the amenities of a well-planned party in the social-media era. For example, a fun photobooth at the reception gave guests both an activity and a keepsake, thanks to Memories in the Spotlight by Susan Leining. Notably, Susan was one of Andrew’s former high school teachers who worked the booth and kept it running smoothly throughout the reception. See kids? Be on your best behavior in school because… karma! You wouldn’t want your old teacher to be constantly texting or roaming the halls instead of being “on task” entertaining your guests!. Emily, herself a teacher, would surely approve this piece of unsolicited advice.
Photobooth fun with Memories in the Spotlight
As the festivities wound down, couples aglow with renewed love drifted off hand-in-hand. Singles, and anyone with literal “puppy love” awaiting them at home, returned to their fur babies with unique wedding favors: custom dog treats! And, just when we thought the night couldn’t possibly have been more romantic, a fireworks display lit up the sky over the ocean. Dazzling enough for July fourth, it was a brilliant ending for the 27th, too.
Sparks fly at this magical send-off