Knoxville Wedding Photographer – 2 Hodges Photography
Andrea and Shigeki, also known as Shuga, had planned a fun, intimate, family-oriented Whitestone Country Inn wedding in front of Whitestone’s charming gazebo. Unfortunately, the weather threatened to not cooperate, so the wedding was moved into the chapel. Still, Andrea and Shuga’s wedding was everything they hoped it would be – a beautiful and fun celebration including a blending of cultures and religions.
Andrea is a stunning bride. She chose a soft pink and blue color palette with a gorgeous wedding bouquet by Lisa Foster Floral Design that perfectly accented how radiant Andrea is. Andrea and Shuga had a small wedding party, and Andrea’s sister stood by her side as Matron of Honor.
Shuga and his Best Man, his brother, accented their black suits with a deep red, reminiscent of their Japanese heritage. Shuga and his family are from Hiroshima, and while Shuga speaks perfect English, his family only speaks Japanese. Despite the language barrier, we had a blast taking photos of Shuga with his Best Man, his other brother and his dad. Shuga’s mom dressed in traditional Japanese attire, wearing a long kimono – she is beautiful!
The day started with a Tish, traditionally a Jewish celebration, where Shuga and his family had drinks and told stories.
Then, Andrea arrived to the wedding ceremony on a carriage. Their service included a punch ceremony. Andrea and Shuga then exited on a carriage ride followed by a photo of the entire wedding party and guests inside the chapel.
Andrea and Shuga’s reception continued the fun with Joey Tack keeping guests entertained on the dance floor. Shuga literally spun Andrea around the dance floor for their first dance, and then during the toasts Shuga interpreted for his family (we think he told us what they said!) – before drinking his brother’s champagne. For the dance with his mom, Shuga chose a very non-traditional “Rock Around the Clock.”
After bit of a cupcake smash with GiGi’s cupcakes, a big wedding trend in Knoxville, TN, we got Andrea and Shuga outside for photos at dusk.
After more dancing, including a traditional Jewish Chair Dance, Andrea and Shuga ended the night with a sparkler exit.
To Andrea and Shuga: Your wedding is one we will always remember for how much fun we had capturing you and your families. However, the way we have seen you support each other through across-the-globe moves, wedding planning, and other life moments is what has truly touched our hearts. Thank you so much for letting us capture your wedding day memories! We are so glad we know you!
Andrea and Shuga’s Wedding Photos
Knoxville Wedding Vendors
Venue, Catering and Videography: Whitestone Country Inn
Florist: Lisa Foster Floral Design
DJ and Entertainment: Joey Tack
Baker: Gigi’s CupCakes
