Kaedra & Alex | Stan Hywet Wedding

May 22, 2014

They met at Ohio State University over a few games of H-O-R-S-E. As sophomores on campus, Kaedra and Alex chatted for more than an hour on the court that day. And then they parted ways and left the rest up to chance. It wasn't until nearly three years later that they went out for the first time.

"Alex is always encouraging me to try new things, like CrossFit, and treats every situation like we are a team," Kaedra said. "He pushes me to do things I never thought I could, and just when I'm about to fall, he knows the exact moment to step in and help."

During their engagement session, Kaedra and Alex gushed about their newfound love of CrossFit, and one of the things I remember most about that conversation was how complimentary the two were of each other. Kaedra made sure it was known that Alex was one of the best in their gym, although he would never have admitted it. Alex bragged about how dedicated Kaedra was to the early-morning workouts. This is Kaedra and Alex. They share this awe of each other that is really fantastic to observe.

Thank you so much for asking me to be a part of your wedding day, you two. Sometimes I feel like this job makes me a better person, and interacting with you guys has added to that. You're a highlight of my season! Enjoy your honeymoon!

One of the bridesmaids gifted all the girls with these adorable monogrammed shirts. So thoughtful!

You know I love cats. It was pretty hilarious--and fitting, really--to see Kaedra's childhood cat checking in on the getting ready process.

We skirted rain all day, which was fabulous since the wedding took place outdoors at Stan Hywet. The grounds at this estate are unbelievably gorgeous!

I shot some Fuji 400H at the wedding. :) Kaedra makes it look extra great!

Love this photo that my assistant Caitlin captured!

I have to give a shout out to both Kaedra and Alex's families. Everyone was so welcoming and fun!

Ceremony: Stan Hywet Reception: Prime 93 Florist: Reilley's Originals Cake: Little Bake Shop DJ: On the Mic Entertainment Makeup Artist: MC Hair Consultants Hair Stylist: Studio H Bride's Dress: Abbott's Bridal Bride's Shoes: TOMS Bridesmaids' Dresses: David's Bridal Tuxes: Men's Wearhouse Transportation: Thomas Limousine Honeymoon: Lugano, Switzerland and Venice and Rome!

Markie & Andrew | Rustic Wingfoot Lake Wedding

May 30, 2013

It started with awkward staring, as Markie likes to tell it. And really this story of how they met says so much about these two. They're both so good natured and have awesome senses of humor. And Andrew's such a good sport for going along with Markie's version of the story, although his version is maybe a little different. :)

"We met through friends at college," Markie said. "One evening we went to eat at Chipotle and then watched a movie at a friend's house ... and Andrew spent the whole night staring awkwardly at me."

In this case, awkward staring worked! (Guys take note. ;) ) Markie and Andrew found that they had similar values and a huge heart for the Lord.

When they first started dating, Markie asked Andrew to tell her a story a day and she said it was the day he described one of his childhood friends that she realized how genuine and loving he is. That was also when she realized she had found her person.

Markie and Andrew's wedding was 100% genuine, just like them. I'm so thankful to have been asked to capture it, especially because Markie is like the most creative person I know, along with being a photographer! Cheers to these two!

Markie did her own hair ... and then she did her bridesmaids' hair!

Markie's grandma made the cake, and it was so delicious!

LOVED her bouquet! Markie and her bridesmaids made their bouquets with the help of The Flowerman. So cool!

Off to get married!

Love that one on the left down there. All thanks to my second shooter, Emily! :)

Markie has the BEST facial expressions!

To see more from Markie and Andrew's rustic and sunny day, click here to view a SLIDESHOW or watch it here:

Ceremony/Reception: Wingfoot Lake State Park Caterer: Old Carolina BBQ Florist: The Flowerman Columbus Bakery: Markie's Grandma Joan :) Bride's Dress: David's Bridal Bride's Shoes: TOMS Bridesmaids' Dresses: Modcloth Tuxes: JF J. Ferrar Paper Goods: Wedding Paper Divas Honeymoon: Asheville, N.C.!

Markie & Andrew | Rustic Wingfoot Lake Wedding Sneak Peek

May 21, 2013

This wedding was, in one word, sweet. The respect and care that these two have for one another is so inspiring. I feel so thankful that I was asked to capture it! Markie is uber creative (she was even doing her bridesmaids' hair that morning!) and knew exactly what she wanted from her day. Her mom helped piece all the details together perfectly, but what I love most is that the marriage shone through on this wedding day. Andrew could not get enough of his bride, and their faith poured out of them as the beautiful, sunny, spring day unfolded. Much more soon but for now ...

Lauren & Joe | Cuyahoga Falls Spring Wedding

May 2, 2013

Lauren and Joe are two of those people that you feel like you've known forever, even if you've only known them a few months. (I could probably say that about all my couples!) Lauren is so sweet and warm and a little bit goofy (and hey, that's one of Joe's favorite things about her). :) And she's amaaaazing in front of the camera!

Joe is very chill but will tell you anything you want to know. And it just so happens that he plays rugby ... and suffered an injury days before their big day! He was still hurting by the time their wedding rolled around but you would never know it from looking at the pictures, right? So, he's also a trooper. He didn't complain one time!

And together? Together they're even better.

Lauren and Joe had a small Cuyahoga Falls ceremony with their nearest and dearest. I've come to adore intimate weddings because they're so personal and the bride and groom really have the opportunity to really celebrate with everyone they love. This wedding was no exception.

Thank you guys for asking me to join you on your big day! Let's hang out when you move to our neighborhood. ;)

Lauren and Joe had a first look at High Bridge Glen in Cuyahoga Falls, the spot where Joe proposed. Magically, the rain held off and the light was perfect.