This August, I had the pleasure of photographing the marriage of two very good friends: Steve & Ashley. I’ve known Steve for many years - we went to high school together, and met Ashley some years ago when she came into Steve’s life. Both of them are beautiful and independent people, and when they’re together, they light up the room. Easy-going, hilarious, and also the classy people they are, their wedding was a fabulous party full of traditions, surprises and creativity. I always have so much fun when I photograph them, but I think this day takes the cake - hah :)

What getting ready really looks like. Cheers!

For real though, Ashley rocked it. Look at this beauty — she belongs in a vintage glam magazine or hollywood movie! Make up artistry by Amanda Melo of Modmakeup.

Nothing is complete without the dress, shoes, and a bridal bouquet. Ashley’s were custom-made wood, a new trend that I personally love. Flowers by EcoFlower.

Some more bridal portraits. Beautiful!! Hair by Shannon McCarthy. Those braids!!

The groomsmen were also pretty put-together, with matching ties and boutonnieres.

The bride and groom did a first look of sorts - they wrote eachother letters, which they read silently without having yet seen one another. Ashley surprised Steve afterward with her cape (he had seen the dress) - which I think was an awesome addition and made for such a unique look.

I also was able to try out some drone flying. I had my trusty business partner, Paul, be pilot while I was tending to other photo-duties. Love this reveal clip of the venue in the fog. Drone & aerial video is available to add on to any of my wedding packages. Aerial photos and video clips quite literally bring a new perspective to your big day - plus, they’re fun!!

Paper cranes. Steve and Ashley made literally a thousand of them by hand to hang behind them during the ceremony. According to the Origami crane project, In Japan, the crane is a mystical creature and is believed to live one thousand years - it symbolizes good fortune and longevity. If you fold one thousand paper cranes, one wish will come true. Fitting!

I’m always amazed at the amount of work, creativity and craftiness (and in this case, paper-cuts) that often go into weddings.

The ceremony. Ashley’s parents walking her down the aisle in a barn full of lights and family.

The ceremony and wedding day was live-streamed throughout. I’ve embraced guest smartphones in my work!

The exchange of rings, and just before the kiss. Look at that cheese.

Before the bride and groom left the hall, they were presented with a traditional Ukranian salted bread, or Korovai, that was to be eaten by both of them, and to be shared with guests during dinner. I love that they incorporated Ukranian custom into the ceremony and reception, since Steve’s family is from there.

Steve helping his new wife not get her beautiful dress dirty :)

I’m a fan of candid moments. For context: Members of the wedding party offering Ashley an umbrella to walk her back to cocktail hour after pictures in the rain.

And the results - some enchanting newly-married photos under the arbor in the garden. They weren’t going to let the rain stop them!

Centerpieces and place-settings.

They even had their own ‘signature drinks.’ I might need to steal this idea if I ever walk down the aisle myself. Drinks by Topnotch Bartending.

They also get the award for most laughs I’ve ever seen.

Ashley’s father’s choice of attire is what every father-of-the-bride should strive for.

The toasts.

Many kisses were had.

A slideshow of memories together before the first dance.

Delicious cake! And a public vote on the new last name! They decided to combine both of their last names, leaving them with two options. I know Ashley was happy with the guests’ decision.

The night ended with the lighting of a candle, symbolizing the joining of two families.

A fun video of the wedding party from a bird’s eye view.

Thank you to everyone who made the day a success, including Cyn Celebrations - the coordinator who made sure everything ran on time! I wouldn’t be able to do the job I do without the vendors and people who make it happen- teamwork makes the dream work.

Congratulations to you both! I hope you have a lifetime of happiness together and I wish you nothing but the best. Thank you for inviting me to be a part of your day and trusting me with documenting it! <3