a beautiful summer wedding in philly...
... but it all started when Jordan and Melissa had reached out to me based on a recommendation from someone in my family. Despite the connection, I did not know the couple. There always seems to be some additional pressure when you are shooting a wedding for a bride and groom that you don't know well - how can you get to know them ahead of time? What do they like/not like? What is their vision for their wedding day? What's most important to them?
Sure, there are steps throughout the booking and planning process that help to build this relationship, but when you have a bride and groom like these two, your job as a photographer becomes 10000x easier.
Wedding Day
I began the day by getting as many detail shots of the ceremony and reception space ahead of time. The venue (Terrain Cafe) was absolutely beautiful - imagine getting married in a gorgeous plant nursery with a little space for an outdoor ceremony, along with a quaint reception area that had a bar in a greenhouse. I was in AWE of how beautiful it was and grateful that I had the opportunity to shoot a wedding here.
Shortly thereafter, I made sure to capture some getting ready shots for both Melissa and Jordan. It was here where I quickly learned how lovely the two of them were, but also the beauty of their families. I jumped into this wedding with no expectations. However, I learned quickly how much love these two have for not only one another, but each others families.
Their spaces were so different, but I love how you can feel the emotion and anticipation for what's to come. The ceremony had a multitude of special moments, including prayers, blessings, and the sweetest vows. This was a wedding where you truly got to witness the beauty of two families merging, and I appreciated each moment throughout the ceremony as a result.
One of my favorite parts from the day was their private first dance. This was a perfect way to guarantee that they got some alone time together. I never take these opportunities for granted - how special is it that I got to share that moment with them so they could have some photos to remember it?
It's not often that a photographer gets an hour of portraits with their bride and groom. This property was gorgeous, and I'm so glad Melissa and Jordan wanted to prioritize time to explore it and get all of the photos they wanted. These are some of my favorite photos I've ever taken, and these two made it so easy to capture each and every one.
We wrapped up the day with a lovely reception and dinner with toasts, cake, and s'mores by the fire. We were able to get a few extra shots to end the night too.
a moment for some cake
s'mores and chatting by the fire
twirling under the lights
This is one of my favorite weddings I've ever shot, but also attended. The venue was beautiful, the bride and groom were the perfect clients, and their families were so sweet. I feel lucky to have had another opportunity as great at this one.
Even better, I get to continue capturing some special milestones for these two. I'm looking forward to working with them both again in October, and wishing them all the best in their new life as a married couple!
I never thought I'd say this, but weddings are becoming some of the most fulfilling work I do as a photographer. Thanking each and every one of you out there that has supported me and continues to.
♡ Kylie
