Photography by the Atlanta Wedding Photographers at www.AtlantaArtsiticWeddings.com
This week’s wedding is Rachel and Connor. They have been together for a while and they decided to get married this year. There wedding is a historic one when it comes to Atlanta landmarks.
Photography by the Atlanta Wedding Photographers at www.AtlantaArtsiticWeddings.com
The wedding day started at Connor’s church he and his family grew up in. Nestled in Atlanta, The St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Church is a warm and timeless place of worship known for its rich liturgical tradition, welcoming parish community, and striking iconography. Rooted in the ancient practices of the Antiochian Orthodox faith, St. Elias blends reverence and hospitality—services are sung and chanted, filling the sanctuary with a sense of continuity and spiritual depth. The church’s architecture and icons create a contemplative backdrop for weddings, baptisms, and feast-day celebrations, making it a meaningful and photogenic setting for couples seeking a ceremony steeped in ritual and heartfelt moments. Whether you’re attending a service or planning a sacrament, St. Elias offers a gracious, authentic atmosphere that honors tradition while embracing its diverse Atlanta congregation.
Photography by the Atlanta Wedding Photographers at www.AtlantaArtsiticWeddings.com
When we arrived a the church it was like a family affair. Rachel was surrounded by family and friends helping her get ready. Downstairs was Connor who was getting ready with his friends and dad. Inside the sanctuary was Connor’s grandmother and family. We started with a first look with Rachel and her dad. Her bridesmaids were so supportive and looked on tearfully from the side as Rachel and her dad had a special moment. Once that was done we did our individual and group photos. We then tucked the ladies away so we could start working with the guys. The guys were awesome. They were organized and focused so we knocked them out quickly. Once they were done we opened up the sanctuary so the guests could be seated for the ceremony
Photography by the Atlanta Wedding Photographers at www.AtlantaArtsiticWeddings.com
Connor and Rachel’s ceremony was an Antiochian Orthodox Church wedding ceremony that is a deeply symbolic, sacramental service steeped in ancient liturgical tradition, where the couple is united before God, clergy, and community through prayers, scripture, and ritual. The service often combines elements like the Betrothal—exchanging rings and vows—a procession into the nave, and the Crowning, where ornate crowns or stefana are placed on the bride and groom to signify their new status as king and queen of a family kingdom of faith. Hymns, incense, and the chanting of the congregation create a reverent, contemplative atmosphere; readings from the Epistles and Gospels frame the marriage as both a covenant of love and a call to mutual sacrifice and Christ-centered service. Ritual actions such as the common cup and the ceremonial circling of the altar symbolize shared life, communion, and the journey the couple now undertakes together, while the priest’s prayers emphasize blessing, guidance, and the presence of the Holy Spirit throughout their union.
Photography by the Atlanta Wedding Photographers at www.AtlantaArtsiticWeddings.com
After the ceremony we did a few family photos and more group shots. Once we were done with those it was on to the newly weds! We did few photos in the church then we moved on to the Trolley Barn. When we got there the guests were inside. When Connor and Rachel arrived there was hardly anyone outside so l suggested doing some photos outside the venue. I then noticed that we were on a pretty isolated street. There was a policeman at the venue directing traffic. I suggested we take some fun photos in the street. Connor and Rachel were so excited! I took few of them walking in the middle of the road like the bosses they are. They danced and marched in the middle of the road. These were some of the most fun photos I have taken in a while. Once done we went in to the Trolley Barn Reception Venue.
Photography by the Atlanta Wedding Photographers at www.AtlantaArtsiticWeddings.com
The Historic Trolley Barn wedding venue is a striking blend of industrial charm and timeless character, where exposed brick, soaring beams, and original trolley tracks set a uniquely romantic stage for a celebration. Sunlight filters through tall windows to illuminate textured walls and vintage fixtures, creating beautiful natural light for candid, documentary-style photographs—especially in black and white. The open floor plan allows for fluid movement between ceremonies, cocktail hours, and receptions, while tucked-away nooks provide intimate settings for portraits and quiet moments. Its historic details lend a sense of story and authenticity to every frame, making the Trolley Barn ideal for couples who want a wedding day that feels both elegant and effortlessly real.
Photography by the Atlanta Wedding Photographers at www.AtlantaArtsiticWeddings.com
Once the guests were settled the reception started. The wedding party entered and they went straight into the first dances. They then announced the tables so the guests could eat. The reception went smoothly and there was a lot catching up between family and friends. After dinner it was the blue hour outside. As many of you know I love the blue hour for photos. Connor and Rachel loved the idea of going outside again. After just a few minutes we had some unique and wonderful photos.
Photography by the Atlanta Wedding Photographers at www.AtlantaArtsiticWeddings.com
After much dancing and toasts the reception came to and end. Rachel and Connor enjoyed a private dance at the end as the guest waited outside. Once the dance was done the couple came outside to a celebration with birdseed and they exited in there decorated car. It was a beautiful ending to a beautiful day!
Photography by the Atlanta Wedding Photographers at www.AtlantaArtsiticWeddings.com
I want thank Connor and Rachel for the honor of being their wedding photographer. They could not have been more gracious! They are truly blesse with so many wonderful family and friends! Congrats you two!
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