Brooke and Cody are a couple who knew that a traditional wedding just wasn’t their style. They wanted something different, so they decided to ditch the big wedding and have a micro-wedding at 9 Aviles instead.

9 Aviles is a beautiful venue right in downtown historic in St. Augustine, Florida. The ceremony was short and sweet, and after they said their vows, we captured couple’s portraits on the brick streets of the oldest city in the United States.

Followed by their fun night on the town, they visited three different bars while I was in attendance. At each bar, they did something special to celebrate their wedding day. To kick the night off, they took shots together instead of cutting a cake at the first bar. A short stroll later, we arrived at bar #2 where I cleared the dance floor and they danced their first dance to Tennessee Whiskey by Chris Stapleton. Lastly, at the third bar, Cody retrieved her garter in a random booth! And their night didn’t end there! Only their photography did. So they continued their fun night out as newlyweds.

Brooke and Cody’s micro-wedding was a perfect reflection of their love for each other and their adventurous spirits. It was a day to remember and the best day ever!

Love note from the Bride

“Dena is an amazing, sweet, understanding and patient photographer. I honestly can not give her enough stars. The photos she captured of our beautiful, chaotic and hectic day are phenomenal! From the moment you book with her you feel at ease. She has everything under control and knows what to look for and what to ask. She took Live Photos for us on the town in st Augustine as our reception and she absolutely captured our entire vision!! Do not hesitate she is amazing!” – Brooke M.

Vendors:

Venue: 9 Aviles Street

Photography: Dena Ray Photography

Floral: Malia Floral Design

Hair: Hair Art by Gabby

Planning & Coordination: Paightons Perfect Plans

Getting Ready & Details

Brooke and Cody got ready at a nearby AirBnb which they had rented for the full weekend of their wedding.

First Look with Dad | 9 Aviles

Brooke chose to have a special first look and gift exchange with her father, upstairs in the beautiful private room at 9 Aviles.

Ceremony at 9 Aviles

Both of the Brooke’s grandfathers are pastors and she just couldn’t decided which one to choose to officiate their wedding. Instead, she chose to have a special moment during her ceremony where each grandfather did a blessing on each of their rings, traditionally called a ring warming ceremony.

Bride and Groom Portraits

The Murdock’s take over St. Augustine | Night on the Town

Brooke and Cody’s closest friends and family went out on the town to celebrate! After a quick drive back to their AirBnb, everyone changed into their night attire. Brooke switched dresses and all the men wore specially made “Murdock Wedding Security” t-shirts.