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This total eclipse elopement was timely, romantic, and perfectly connected this couple to the earth and stars. But their photographer, AJ Abelman gave me such a great story, I'm just going to share it here…
On August 21, 2017, skies darkened from Oregon to South Carolina in the first total solar eclipse visible from across the United States in 99 years. This super dope couple joined thousands of tourists heading south to a perfect viewing spot in Nashville. But their journey would be different from most as it would culminate in marriage vows in the middle of a park.
Hannah and Allen both have a deep connection to the moon and stars, as is evidenced by their tattoos, Allen’s socks, and even the embroidery Hannah added to Allen’s shirt pocket on their wedding day. Intricate details stemming from hours of work capped off the planning for this super creative couple. They are both artists and Hannah is a hair stylist in their hometown in Ohio. In addition to Hannah handmaking Allen’s ring, Allen commissioned Hannah’s moonstone engagement ring and had his fingerprint pressed into the metal of her wedding band. Le sigh.
They began their unique ceremony with the start of the eclipse and placed their special rings on each other’s fingers at the moment of totality. The rest of the day was spent exploring Nashville, a city they had picked for their elopement not only for its view of the eclipse but also for its eclectic ambiance which matched their style perfectly. In lieu of a reception, they celebrated their wedding by eating Thai Food, shopping in thrift and record stores, and memorializing their wedding day with matching eclipse-themed tattoos.
At the end of the day, as we headed back to their Airbnb, we got to talking about first dances and how it's one of the few “traditional” wedding moments all three of us really liked. As they rested as the sun set, I set up a circle of candles to give them their own take on a first dance. They danced under the twinkle lights in each other's arms; I can't remember what song it was, or how long it lasted; all I know is that it was one of the most romantic first dances I've ever seen.
Vendors
Photography: AJ Abelman Photography • Ceremony Venue: Oakland's Mansion • Dinner: Thai Phooket Restaurant, Nashville, TN • Tattoos: Mia Graffam, Victory Tattoo • Bride's Dress: BabyDoll Shop • Bride's Earrings: Hello Stranger Goods • Bride's Necklace: Anthropologie • Bride's Shoes: TOMS • Bouquet: Graham's Floral Shoppe • Groom's Shirt & Pants: H&M, embroidery by bride • Groom's Shoes: Nordstrom • Groom's Bowtie: Southern Proper • Engagement Ring: MinimalVS • Bride's Wedding Band: Bella Design Jewelers • Groom's Wedding Band: Handmade by bride
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About the Author: Catherine Clark
Catherine Clark loiters at her local library, makes art, watches movies en masse, plays video and tabletop games, poorly cooks healthy things, cuddles with her feline fur babies, and blogs at BijouxandBits.com.
