Kara + Tyler | Ironstone Ranch Intimate Vow Exchange | Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer
I’m going to start off by sharing Kara and Tyler’s love story…
Kara and Tyler officially met in December 2019. Tyler’s Aunt Nancy & Aunt Marty introduced them. Kara was instantly attracted to Tyler even though he didn’t fit her “type” – a farmer/hunter with no facial hair or tattoos. She flirted with him, but he didn’t pick up on it and they went their separate ways. Tyler’s aunt intervened and encouraged him to text Kara, giving him her number.
Over the next three weeks, he repeatedly texted but never got an answer. In a last ditch effort, he gathered up his courage and called. Finally, someone picked up. But it wasn’t Kara. It was the number of a chocolate shop!
He went back to his aunt in defeat and realized the number he had written down was off by one digit. A little shaken, he decided to go back to texting and asked if she would want to go for a hike the next day. Kara agreed (even though hiking isn’t really her thing). Tyler was nervous, so as they walked he started talking - and next thing he knew, he had told her his life story. Kara had decided she wasn’t going to date, but as she listened to him talking she decided she liked him and thought just maybe she would give him a chance. After that day, they spent a few more days together and began dating two weeks later.
Kara describes their relationship as stable, complimentary, and unexpected while Tyler says it’s a little sappy but definitely intimate and their intentions with each other are always clear. They enjoy spending time outdoors and appreciate simple pleasures like hanging out on the porch at the cabin or spending time on the farm. They both enjoy conversation and most of all, each other’s company.
When they decided to get married, they knew they didn’t want “a lot of fuss” around a wedding because they believe their marriage is at commitment to each other and to God. They know their marriage is the real sacrament and look forward to growing old together, promising to cherish and support each other for all their days on this earth. Kara & Tyler were wed in an intimate ceremony in a church with only immediate family present on Saturday, January 23, 2021.
Now here is where I come in…
Winter is typically a slow time for weddings, and with COVID still lingering, I found myself with some extra time on my hands this January. I was looking for ways to network and stay creative, and I stumbled upon a style shoot that was being hosted at Ironstone Ranch, in nearby Elizabethtown, PA. I reached out to the coordinator of the styled shoot, and she told me she had an opening and thought we would make a great team. So, I signed up! I tend to stay away from styled shoots, because I prefer real emotion and moments over working with models - but I was really itching to create again, and the timing for this was perfect. As it turned out, our models for this shoot were actually a real couple, and they had just gotten married in an intimate ceremony a few days prior. They didn’t have a professional photographer at that ceremony, and had not exchanged personalized wedding vows. When I found out that our styled shoot was actually going to be a real vow exchange for these newlyweds, I was ecstatic. This shoot really was the perfect fit for me. From the getting ready jitters, to the first look anticipation, to the love-filled vow exchange, and intimate portrait session - it was all 100% real.
Without any further delay, I am thrilled to share these photos with you. (Please scroll to the bottom for the names of the awesome creatives who made this fabulous vision come to life!)
Photographer - Carrie Kizuka Photography
Wedding Portfolio & Production Specialist - Dream Team Academie
Venue - Ironstone Ranch
Florals - Blossom Bliss Florist
Rentals - Sage & Co. Event Rentals
Cake - Farmhouse Cakes
Custom Calligraphy Sign - Jess Smith Designs
Videography - Soul Focus Media
Tabitha + Jason | Blue Marsh Fall Engagement Session | Berks County Wedding Photographer
Tabitha and Jason are getting married next Halloween, and they wanted a moody fall vibe reflected in their engagement portraits. We met up recently at one of their favorite spots around Blue Marsh Lake and we absolutely killed their session. (I might be biased, but I bet you’ll agree with me after viewing this selection of images!)
Mother Nature was definitely on our side that evening, and I couldn’t be more thankful for that! We had the most stunning golden hour light, followed by a breathtaking sunset. I really feel like this session was gifted to me for making it halfway through my annual busy season - not only was the weather and light perfect, but Jason and Tabitha are so naturally cuddly and adorable - I feel like they made it too easy for me! (I’m definitely not complaining.)
While we were together, I also captured a few photos of some of their dearest family members who tagged along to help out. Tabitha and Jason have so many cheerleaders excited for this wedding to take place - I don’t know who is looking forward to it the most! And, you can add me to that list! I know their wedding day is going to be absolutely fantastic.
Without any further delay, I present to you Tabitha and Jason (and a few of their closest loved ones). Congratulations again, and I’m so thankful that we found each other! I know we’re going to make an amazing team.
Alyssa + Tony | Barn at Silverstone | Lancaster, Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer
Alyssa and Tony were married in August in rural Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, at the Barn at Silverstone. (You may remember them from their fabulous engagement session with their Huskies!) I have photographed a number of weddings at Silverstone, and always love shooting here. Their staff is amazing, and there are so many great backdrops for photos. This wedding was no different!
Alyssa and Tony’s wedding day vibe could be described as romantic, rustic, elegant, and (last but definitely not least) incredibly fun! Mother Nature kept us on our toes that day, and their ceremony ended up being postponed by a few minutes to allow a quick storm to roll through. My couples have definitely had their share of lucky (i.e. rainy) days this year! Personally, I never worry about the rain, because we always get amazing photos regardless of the weather. Everyone rolled with it like champs, and we were even rewarded with a rainbow during the reception!
Alyssa and Tony opted against having a first look, waiting to see each other for the first time that day as Alyssa walked down the aisle. It was such a sweet moment, as you will see in the photos. Everything about their wedding day reflected their loving and fun relationship - including the decorations, the gifts that were exchanged, the inclusion of the children in the ceremony who are so important to them, the choreographed dances at the reception, the ice cream truck, and the cake that was customized to include their three doggos. Everything was absolutely stunning and perfect.
I hope you enjoy this selection of photos from their Day #1 as husband and wife. Congratulations again, Mr. and Mrs. Kerezsi! It’s taken me a hot minute to edit these, as busy season is in full swing, so without any further ado I will just go ahead and share a ton of my favorite images from their day.
I want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who worked together to make Alyssa and Tony’s wedding day a giant success!
Photographer: Carrie Kizuka Photography, LLC
Wedding Coordinator: Kayla Resh, Simply Events
Florist: Kim Glasson
Cake Artist: Master’s Baker (Grace)
DJ: DJ Andy M
Hair Artist and Makeup Artist: Stefani Burkett, The Bonafide Ginger
Wedding Dress Boutique: Jennifer’s Bridal in Hockessin, DE (Hayley Paige)
Bridesmaids’ Dress Boutique: David’s Bridal
Groom and Groomsmen’s Tuxedo Boutique: Men’s Wearhouse
Draperies and Twinkle Lights: Shumaker PDT
Linens: John Serock Catering
Officiant: Randy Mims
Ice Cream Truck: Woodside Farm Creamery
Wedding and Reception Venue: The Barn at Silverstone
Danielle + Jonathan | FEAST at Round Hill | New York Wedding Photographer
I recently had the honor of photographing Danielle and Jonathan’s wedding. Danielle and I met quite a few years ago when we were both students (and fellow Delta Zeta sorority sisters) at Lehigh University. I was absolutely thrilled when she reached out to me and asked me to be her wedding photographer! I’ve mentioned it more than once before, but one of my favorite parts of being a photographer is reconnecting with wonderful people from my past, via my passion for artistically capturing moments in time.
Fast forward to their wedding day - Danielle and Jonathan’s final preparations and celebration took place at FEAST at Round Hill, a lovely venue in Washingtonville, New York. It was my first time photographing at that venue, and I instantly fell in love with its charm and personality. There was still snow on the ground from a recent storm, and even though that made for a slippery first look, it added just the right amount of wintry romance to the scene. It really was the perfect setting for Danielle and Jonathan’s classic, fun, and simply elegant wedding. The bridal party was small and intimate, but the day was overflowing with love and joy - from the romantic first look, to the wedding vows, to the speeches, to the dances. The entire day was a celebration of Danielle and Jonathan’s love for each other.
I hope you enjoy this selection of photos from Danielle and Jonathan’s Day #1 as husband and wife. I know that I thoroughly enjoyed celebrating with them (and some of my fellow Lehigh sorority sisters)!
Big thanks to the following team for helping make Danielle and Jonathan’s dream wedding become a reality:
Photographer: Carrie Kizuka Photography, LLC
Venue, Wedding Coordinator, Caterer: FEAST at Round Hill
Videographer: Reina Stern
Florist: Rene Rodriguez, New City Florist
Cake Artist: Pastry Garden
DJ: A Perfect Blend Entertainment
Hair Artist: Melissa Serraro Walsh, Dutchess County Hairstylist
Makeup Artist: Tiffany Field, Dutchess County Hairstylist
Wedding Dress Boutique: Azazie
Bridesmaids’ Dress Boutique: David’s Bridal
Groom’s Tuxedo Boutique: Foeller’s Men’s Shop
Groomsmen’s Tuxedo Boutique: Foeller’s Men’s Shop
Olivia + Paul | Intimate Stirling Mansion Wedding | Reading, Pennsylvania Photographer
Last week, Olivia and Paul got married in an intimate self-uniting wedding ceremony. Their celebration took place at the incredible Stirling Guest Hotel, located in Reading, Pennsylvania. This mansion has so much personality and charm, and I love love love photographing events there! I was honored to document Paul and Olivia’s Day #1 as husband and wife, and I can’t think of a better way to start off my 2019 wedding season. Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Marten!
(Olivia, you ROCKED those wedding socks and sneakers!!)
Morgan + Mikey | Barn at Silverstone Wedding | Lancaster Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer
In September, Morgan and Mikey were married in rural Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, at the Barn at Silverstone. Their wedding day had a romantic and semi-formal vibe, with decorations and details that were rustic and shabby chic. Morgan thought that my “moodier” editing style would be a great fit, so she asked me to add that touch to her wedding photos (which I was happy to do!). The weather has been rather turbulent this year, but we lucked out that day. We had a few showers in the morning - perfect for some extra wedding day luck - and then were gifted the most incredible weather for the rest of the day. Admittedly, it was a bit windy, but they rolled with it like champs!
Morgan, Mikey, and their bridal party were so much fun! They were there to celebrate, and that’s exactly what they did. There were a few emotional moments, too, especially during the first look, wedding ceremony, speeches, and sentimental dances. I was laughing and crying right along with them. And their first dance - they were literally on Cloud 9!! (Wait until you see it!)
I hope you enjoy this selection of photos from their Day #1 as husband and wife. Congratulations again, Mr. and Mrs. Antolino!
Huge props go out to the following vendors for making their dream wedding a reality:
Photographer: Carrie Kizuka
Venue: The Barn at Silverstone
Wedding Coordinator: Christine Helwig, Scarlet Runner Catering
Videographer: Rola Cinema
Florist: The Autumn Olive
Cake Artist: Krystal Moran
DJ: Vince, East Coast Event Group
Hair Artist: John Sentell, Alchemy Studio Hair
Makeup Artisti: Nicole Moeser
Wedding Dress Boutique: Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo; Casablanca
Bridesmaid Dress Boutique: Ashley’s Bridal
Groom and Groomsman Tuxedo Boutique: Men’s Wearhouse
Officiant: Theresa Gilberti
Liz + Phil | Macoby Run Golf Course Wedding | Montgomery County Wedding Photographer
I've been keeping a secret for the past week, and I'm finally allowed to share!
This amazing couple got married in a very intimate ceremony last Saturday before heading to Florida to do it all over again on the beach! They asked me to photograph their church ceremony here in Pennsylvania, which I was honored to do. After they exchanged vows and officially started their Day #1 as husband and wife, we headed to Macoby Run Golf Course for a few more photos. (Phil golfs there pretty frequently, and I could tell he was in his element driving the cart around to a few of his favorite spots! Liz was glowing the entire time - I don't think she cared where we ended up for photos, as long as she was by Phil's side.)
Congratulations, Liz and Phil! I'm honored to share an anniversary date with you. (Big thanks to my husband, Mako, for taking time out of our own anniversary celebration to assist me!)
I hope you enjoy this sample of photos from their (first) wedding day.
Columbia Station Wedding | 2nd Shooting | Chester County Wedding Photographer
When I'm not busy photographing my own weddings or portrait sessions, I can often be found assisting other photographers. I really enjoy the freedom (and lower stress level) that comes along with second shooting! A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of second shooting a wedding for Jessica Lynn Photography.
We met our couple, Danielle and Dan, at the Courtyard Marriott in Collegeville, PA where they were making their final preparations. After a few detail shots and candid photos, we packed up and headed to The Columbia Station, where their first look, wedding ceremony, and reception were going to take place.
Here are a few of my photos from the day. I'm always grateful when the photographers I work with allow me to share my work! Thanks, Jes!
Liz + Phil | Berks County Engagement Session | Penn State Berks | Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer
Last weekend, I met up with Liz and Phil to photograph their engagement session. Liz is my cousin - and one of the biggest Penn State fans that I know! Choosing the Penn State Berks campus as the backdrop for their photoshoot was a pretty easy decision. This location has a lot of meaning for Liz, and I personally love it because there are so many incredible little nooks for portrait backdrops. And, I'm pretty sure Phil is happy anywhere that Liz is by his side. So, Penn State it was!
Liz and Phil had hoped for a wintry backdrop for their photoshoot - and even though the temperatures were definitely winter-appropriate that day, there was no snow to be found. We were, however, gifted some pretty incredible golden light. At the end of our session, we even happened upon an amazing field of yellow flowers. That was a pretty great consolation prize for being denied the snow that we were hoping for. Mother Nature is unpredictable, just like so many aspects of life. At the end of the day, all that matters is how you spend your time and who you spend it with. Everything else is just noise.
That being said, I LOVE how their photographs turned out! I hope you enjoy this little preview from their session. Congratulations, Liz and Phil! I wish you both a lifetime of happiness together.
(Disclaimer - Liz and Phil brought the empty champagne bottle along that they celebrated with on the night of their engagement!! Awesome, right?! They toasted to their engagement - but they used ginger ale this time. We wouldn't want anyone to get scolded for an innocent, alcohol-free toast on Penn State grounds.)
Nona + George | Everly at Railroad | Icona Golden Inn, Avalon | New Jersey Wedding Photographer
On Saturday, I had the incredible honor of photographing Nona and George's wedding. Their engagement session at Longwood Gardens is still one of my all-time favorites - click on the link and you will see why! While their engagement photoshoot happened to take place on one of the hottest days of summer, their wedding day was just the opposite. Once I arrived at their hotel in Avalon, however, I didn't even notice the below-freezing temperatures outside. Just seeing Nona and George instantly warmed me up. They were absolutely stunning - seriously, they both took my breath away. But more importantly, the love that surrounded them was palpable. Anyone in their presence can instantly tell how head-over-heels in love they are for each other, and their friends and family very obviously share in that joy.
Nona and George's final preparations took place at the Icona Golden Inn, in Avalon. This hotel is amazing! The rooms were completely white, and gorgeous natural light just poured in through all of the windows. (Oh, how I wish I lived closer so that I could schedule some sessions there!) After getting ready with a few of their closest friends and family, Nona and George snuck away to a staircase for their "first look". Their reactions were priceless, and George shed a few tears at the sight of his stunning bride. (I have such a soft spot for my grooms who cry!!)
After a few bridal party portraits, we packed up and headed to the wedding venue - Everly at Railroad, in Tuckahoe, NJ. I hit the venue jackpot today!! Everly was so unique and full of character, and was the perfect place for Nona and George to exchange their wedding vows. Nona and George made their marriage official surrounded by their loved ones and a few thousand super cool antiques! After Nona and George became husband and wife, we snuck outside and braved the cold for a few more portraits across the street at the Tuckahoe Railroad Station. Then, we came back inside and the girls kicked their shoes off - and replaced them with Eagles socks and glitter sneakers! When they scheduled their wedding, they had no idea that it would also serve as a pre-Super Bowl party for their favorite NFL team!
What a celebration this was! The food was delicious, the drinks were flowing, the band was so talented and full of energy, and the bridal party and guests were so much fun. Everything was as perfect as Nona and George had planned it, and more so. I have to take a moment to praise Nona in this blog. She is such a talented artist and created so many of the wedding details herself, including the dip-dyed bouquet and boutonniere flowers, the centerpieces, the invitation suite, the hand-painted chalkboard sign easels, and more! Nona's father built the arbor that they used in their wedding ceremony, and their bridal party created their own wedding version of the "Guess Who" game you probably grew to love as a child!
Nona and George, thank you for including me in your Day #1. I'm so glad that I happened to be online and came across your Facebook post last year when you were in the hunt for a wedding photographer - and out of the long, long, long list of photographers who threw their names into the mix, that you both chose me. I'm so honored that our lives are intertwined, and the love that you share for each other inspires me. I hope that you have an amazing time on your honeymoon!!
I would like to thank all of the incredibly talented people who poured their hearts and talents into Nona and George's wedding day!
Getting Ready Location: Icona Golden Inn, Avalon, NJ
Wedding Venue: Everly at Railroad, Tuckahoe, NJ
Wedding Coordinator: Emily Moulder
Florist: None! Nona created the arrangements herself with flowers made of sola wood!
Cake Artist: They bought their wedding cake and one for every guest table from their local Acme grocery store!
Hair Artist: Kate Bryan
Makeup Artist: Micaela Vibanco
Wedding Dress Boutique: Tesi Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses Boutique: David's Bridal
Groom and Groomsmen Tuxedo Boutique: Express
Officiant: Nona's cousin, Jack Poole
Shoes: Marc Fisher
Catering: Shore Side Catering
Band: The Red Hotts
Videographer: Sia Koletas
Lead Photographer: Carrie Kizuka
Second Photographer: Olga Hinchman (Olga, you are a rockstar and it was so great working with you! Thank you for sharing your passion and talent with me today!)
My Wanderlust Project | A Wedding Promotion | Destination Wedding Photographer
Carrie Kizuka Photography, LLC's incredible destination wedding discount promotion!
Read MoreKailey + Kyle | The Barn at Silverstone Rustic Outdoor Lancaster Wedding | Berks County Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer
A few weeks ago, Kailey and Kyle got married and I was lucky enough to be there to document it all! As soon as I met them at their consultation, I instantly realized how deeply in love they are, and I knew that their wedding day was going to be fabulous. I have been looking forward to this day for almost a year - since way before their amazing engagement session that took place in Berks County at the Wyomissing Park last fall.
Kailey and Kyle's wedding and reception both took place at the Barn at Silverstone, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. (All of the amazing vendors that worked together to make this day a success are listed at the bottom of this blog post!) Their details and decorations were rustic, romantic, and simply beautiful. Kailey and Kyle decided against having a first look, opting for the more traditional choice of waiting to see each other until Kailey was walking down the aisle. I always love watching the groom's reaction as he sees his bride for the first time, and Kyle's reaction had me in tears. He absolutely glowed when he set his eyes upon Kailey in her wedding dress, as she was escorted down the aisle by her proud father. Their obvious love for each other had many of us in tears that afternoon.
Kyle's brother officiated the wedding ceremony, and immediately after their romantic bubble exit, we gathered around the stunning stone fireplace for family portraits. I noticed that a few guests kept checking their phones and watches, and I quickly discovered the reason why - there was a storm approaching, and we were on borrowed time to finish up our outdoor photographs!
It turned out that luck was on our side that evening, and we finished all of the formal portraits just minutes before the sky opened up and gifted us a lucky wedding day downpour. The rain didn't last long, and we made it back outside for a few more photographs right as the sun was setting. It was a beautiful day all around, and the lucky thunderstorm just made it even more perfect.
Kailey and Kyle, I wish you both a lifetime of happiness together. I can't thank you enough for trusting me to capture your Day #1 for you and your loved ones.
Wedding coordinator: Katie Slauch, Stylish Occasions
Florist: Amy Stein, Steins Flowers
Cake artist: Ady Cakes
DJ: Kevin High, The Party Express DJs
Hair artist: Paulene Stromberg, Elle Hair Design
Makeup artist: Belinda Carrol
Bride's and bridesmaids' dresses: Darianna Bridal
Groom's and groomsmen's suits: Jos. A. Bank
Bride's rings: Neil Lane
Bride's shoes: Michael Kors
Wedding and reception venue: The Barn at Silverstone
Officiant: Kyle's brother
Photography: Carrie Kizuka Photography, LLC
Big thanks to Emilly Ziegler for second shooting with me for part of the day!
Jackie + Dustin | Neag Planetarium + Reading Museum | Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer
Happy Mother's Day! I thought it was the perfect day to post this fabulous, romantic, unique, and FUN wedding on my blog!
Jackie and Dustin got married on Earth Day, and it was out of this world! (Pun intended.) They opted for a galaxy theme for their nuptials, and it was amazing! All of their details and decorations fit the galaxy theme perfectly - their constellation invitations, the groomsmen's constellation socks, their hand-painted galaxy guest sign-in canvas, their vow exchange under the planetarium dome, their constellation table placards, and their stunning purple, blue, and pink flowers! When you see their photos, I'm sure you will agree!
That morning, I met up with Jackie and Dustin at the Crowne Plaza in Wyomissing for some "getting ready" and detail photos. Then, we headed to the Reading Museum and Neag Planetarium for their first look. Let me tell you about that first look - it was my favorite one yet, even in spite of the falling rain!! Jackie walked up behind Dustin ever so slowly, the anticipation of seeing her soon-to-be husband visibly building on her face. The instant Jackie tapped Dustin on his shoulder and he turned around, Dustin set his eyes upon her and spurted out some obscenities that shouldn't be repeated on my blog! He just couldn't contain his excitement, or his love! It is so obvious that they are crazy in love with each other, and it was so much fun to witness! They couldn't take their eyes off of each other, taking each other in and realizing that they were going to be husband and wife in just a few short moments. I posted a bazillion photos of the first look below, so you'll be able to see for yourself!
Everything about this day was all about Jackie and Dustin - as it should be. They had their first date at the Neag Planetarium, so they decided it would be the perfect location to exchange their wedding vows. As Jackie's "something blue", she painted the bottoms of her stunning heels a gorgeous shade of blue. Dustin provided all of the groomsmen - and Jackie - with personalized karate belts. They threw tradition to the wind, opting for an ice cream sundae bar over a cake, including their own signature ice cream flavor! Even their wedding rings reflected their unique love for each other, bearing infinity sign designs. Their officiant was a close friend of theirs who actually joined them on their first date at the planetarium! And, they exchanged vows in the planetarium underneath a starry sky... which turned to fireworks as they shared their first kiss as newlyweds!
I'm so honored that I was able to celebrate this special day with Jackie, Dustin, and their loved ones. Big thanks to my friend and fellow photographer April Westhafer for second shooting with me for part of the day!
Congratulations, Jackie and Dustin! I hope you enjoy this selection of memories from your Day #1.
Here are the vendors that helped make Jackie and Dustin's wedding day a success:
Getting Ready: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Reading, PA
Florist: Holly, Froggy's Garden
DJ: Nick Talarico, The People's DJ
Hair Artist: Michelle Fischer
Makeup Artist: Fawn Monique
Wedding Dress Boutique: Bijou Bridal
Groom & Groomsmen's Tuxedo Boutique: Men's Wearhouse
Caterer: Laurin Fegley, Simply Smooth Catering
Wedding Coordinator: Laura Oswald, Reading Public Museum
Pine Barn Inn, Danville PA Wedding | 2nd Shooting
On weekends when I'm not busy shooting my own weddings or portrait sessions, I can often be found assisting other photographers. I really enjoy the freedom (and lower stress level) that comes along with second shooting! A few weeks ago, I second shot a wedding for Alisha Taylor of A Mack Photography.
My day started in Elysburg with sunny skies and temps in the 70s... and ended at the Pine Barn Inn in Danville with sub-freezing temps and snow! Mother Nature was up to some shenanigans that day, but it made for incredibly diverse photos! Nate and Alaina were so kind, so in love, and so much fun to hang out with all day! I hope you enjoy this selection of photos from their wedding day.
Camp Nawakwa Wedding | 2nd Shooting
I'm so grateful that I met Julie Hagenbuch earlier this year. She is such a talented photographer and is one of the sweetest people I have ever met. I grow as a photographer and a person whenever I get to work with her. I recently had the honor of second shooting my third wedding with her, and it was incredible. (I had no doubt that it would be! She has a personality and talent that attracts clients who just ooze their in-loveness and who choose the most amazing venues!)
Alyssa and Matt's wedding preparation, ceremony, portraits, and reception all took place at Camp Nawakwa, located in Biglerville, Pennsylvania. The wedding took place on an unseasonably hot September day, and was completely outdoors - but I was so wrapped up in the celebration that I didn't even notice the heat. (And as a snow lover myself, that is saying a lot.)
Here are a few of my favorite photos from their Day #1 together. I am so thankful that Julie asked me to second shoot this wedding with her, and very grateful that she has given me the okay to share a few of my images with the world. It's always nice to meet colleagues in this industry who support community over competition.
Congratulations to Alyssa and Matt! Thank you again to the incredible photographer and overall amazing human being Julie Hagenbuch.
Valley Forge Wedding | 2nd Shooting
I recently had the pleasure of second shooting for the talented Rachael McCormack of Mily Photography. I started my afternoon by snapping a few photos of the guys while they were finishing getting ready. Then, we headed to the church and waited in anticipation and excitement for the ceremony to begin. After their marriage was made official (in a beautiful and emotional ceremony!), we headed to Valley Forge for a few bridal party photos. We ended at the Valley Forge Sheraton, where the reception festivities were taking place. Here are a few of my photos from the day. Thank you again for having me along, Rachael!
Congratulations, Jen and Kevin!
The Barn on Bridge Wedding | Danielle + Codie
Danielle and Codie are two of the kindest people I have ever met. If you have had the pleasure of meeting them, I have no doubt that you share a similar opinion. On top of that, they have been my most laid-back couple so far! So, to surprise them, I decided to blog their wedding in time for them to enjoy a few photos while they are relaxing on their honeymoon.
My day started at Danielle's parents' house, where she and the bridesmaids were finishing up their final preparations. Then, we headed to Blessed Teresa of Calcutta for the ceremony... which is absolutely gorgeous inside and outside! After the ceremony, we snapped a few family photos at the church, then headed to The Barn on Bridge for the reception. Their bridal party was so much fun! Danielle and Codie were completely open to suggestions for photo locations, and even agreed to adventure through some weeds, thorns, mud, and rocks, and into the creek for a few couple's shots. It was worth every second - the photos turned out great, and we shared a few laughs in the process! The reception was perfect - complete with heartwarming toasts, delicious food, strong beverages, and lots of dancing. LOTS of dancing. Danielle and Codie even demonstrated their vocal skills by leading the band during Livin' on a Prayer, while Danielle's dad played the drums! I had no idea everyone was so multi-talented!
It was hard to pick just a few photos to share! I hope you enjoy these moments from their incredible Day #1. Danielle and Codie, thank you again for allowing me the honor of being your photographer. (And big thanks to my husband for assisting me!)
Florist: An Enchanted Florist at Skippack Village
Cake Artist: The Master's Baker
Band: Slippery Band
Hair & Makeup: Nikki at Gwendolynn Salon Spa
Bride's Dress: Page Six
Bridesmaids Dresses: David's Bridal
Groom and Groomsmen's Tuxes: Page Six
Church: Blessed Teresa of Calcutta
Reception: The Barn on Bridge
Catering: Robert Ryan Catering
The Farmhouse, Delaware Wedding | Keri + Mike
A few weeks ago, I photographed my second Delaware wedding of the year. And, just like the last one, I went to high school with a number of people in attendance - including the bride! I'm so glad that Keri and Mike asked me to be their photographer. Their day was so touching, and if you happened to be in attendance, you might have noticed me laughing, crying, singing, and dancing with them. I get so emotionally involved with each of my couples, and this wedding was no different. Keri and Mike just complement each other so perfectly - it's hard to find the correct words. When you are around them, though, you can feel the connection between them. I usually don't share many photos of the actual ceremony online, but I am today. I love the way they looked at each other throughout the day, and want more people to experience that kind of love and joy. They were so captivated by each other, I don't think they even noticed the rain during their (outdoor) ceremony!
Congratulations again, Keri and Mike! I hope you enjoy a few of my favorite moments from your Day #1 as husband and wife.
Venue: The Farmhouse
Flowers: Belak Flowers
Cake: Cakes by Kim
Band: Bachelor Boys Band
Hair and Makeup Artists: Town & Country Salon
Bride's Dress: Forever Formals
Bridesmaid Dress: Jan Rae Boutique
Groom's Suit: Men's Wearhouse
Officiants: Bob Wagner and Lyle Neal
Riverdale Manor Wedding | Karissa + Chris
This spring, I was so fortunate to photograph the wedding of Karissa and Chris. This was one of the most emotional ceremonies I have ever witnessed. Karissa and Chris are two of the kindest and most genuine people I have met, and their love for each other is boundless. I'm so honored that they asked me to capture their memories for them. I shared in their laughter, tears, and dancing, and I am a better person because of it. There was so much love - and fun - in the air that night! Big thanks to April Westhafer for second shooting for me!!
Venue: Riverdale Manor
Wedding Coordinator: Maureen Raezer
Florist: Cedar Hill Flowers
Cake Artist: Oregon Dairy
DJ: Holiday Sounds
Hair/Makeup Artist: Tiffany Mohr
Wedding Dress Boutique: Alfred Angelo
Tuxedos: Men's Wearhouse
String Trio: Cherrywood Ensembles
Officiant: Marian Schappell