If I could pick one word to describe Marisa + Luke as a couple it would be JOY. They are just one of those couples that just are joyous to be around and their happiness is contagious. This wedding was one of those weddings that seemed set above the rest. It was where you could tell they were honoring the Lord with the day and their marriage was just a public commitment to serve the Lord as one, together. Witnessing two families merge with Christ in the center – it’s what God intended. I was so honored to be there. Even though I don’t know Marisa + Luke that well, it seemed as though I fit right in and the day went wonderfully.

We did a first look so we’d have time to get all of the portraits in and I’m so glad we did! There was this gorgeous tree with wispy branches as well as a super cool tree on the side of a country road. I love it when a couple says, just drive ahead of us and find a spot you like. WOOT! Isn’t that what all photographers dream about? I look for spots all the time while I’m driving and wish I could stop at each one to photograph a bride and groom there.

Can we just talk about how I’m loving this off the shoulder trend?!?! Oh my gosh when I saw Marisa in her dress I about died inside!! The off the shoulder for the win!!!! Luke’s reaction when he saw her was priceless! I’m so glad they got to spend the day together before the chaos began. It was so nice to get relaxed pictures of them as well as the bridal party. It was a lot of fun. We did some near the church and then we did most of them at the barn at Firestone Farms.

There were a lot of great moments during this beautiful wedding and I really enjoyed putting this gallery together. One of my favorite details was the henna that Marisa got on her leg. She spent about 8 months in India doing ministry and she wanted to include an Indian wedding tradition in her own wedding. I thought that was pretty cool and memorable. I know how different cultures and experience can influence you and just mark your heart forever. So a piece of me understood the sentiment.

Congrats Mr & Mrs Jarrett!! It was an honor to photograph you both!

It’s already the end of June and I feel like Spring came and went. What a quick but wonderful season it was! Today I’m sharing Madison + Eric’s gorgeous Spring wedding at Stambaugh Auditorium. Their wedding was breathtaking and the day could not have been more gorgeous. Stambaugh has all kinds of nooks and crannies to take great pictures. One of my favorite spots to get the bride by herself is right by the elevator. There is this enormous, decorative window that just makes her stand out so perfectly (as she should!). Madison’s dress had just the right amount of sparkle and if you look close, the tulle had this amazing sheen/sparkle to it. I looooved it.

Trish (my assistant) and I went to high school with Eric. He is still that goofy, handsome, life of the party but you could tell Madison was meant to be with him. He just lights up with her in the room and shows affection like no one’s watching. It’s always fun to see people you grew up with and how much life has changed. Makes the world small. The first session I did with them I had no idea who Madison’s boyfriend was. When they showed up for their pictures, Eric and I were like, “whahhhhtt??” I’ll never forget that. It’s just odd to run into Riverside grads in Youngstown haha!

Another few favs from this day: Eric’s niece is ADORABLE!!! I loved the carriage she came down the aisle in. The jumping pics are super fun and show this party’s personality fo sho! Eric’s Best Man speech was hilarious, hands down. Madison’s dad had some of the sweetest words for his daughter before their dance together. It was presh. Erin (Eric’s sister) and her husband did an awesome flip as their intro into the reception!! And Eric and his mom did the best Mother/Son dance EVER. I wish I had a video!

Enjoy this beautiful May wedding gallery!! Congrats Mr & Mrs Clayton!