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!

Julie & Micah | Outdoor Cincinnati Wedding

April 17, 2014

Julie says that her favorite thing about Micah is that he shows her he loves her every single day. And THAT was my favorite thing about their wedding. I love observing couples, and watching Micah watch Julie was just so sweet. She is one lucky lady because he thinks the world of her.

These two got married on a beautiful, breezy day in a suburb of Cincinnati. Julie is the daughter of my former co-worker (Hi, Lisa!) and I've been so excited about this wedding since she booked last spring. Add to the fun Julie's daughter, Jaylen, and you have one rockin' wedding! :)

Julie and Micah, thank you for sharing your happiness with me. I loved documenting your big day, and I'm so excited to keep up with your newly joined family. :)

Julie and Micah chose to do a first look before the ceremony ...

I love that all the guys, including the ring bearer, plus Julie wore Converse sneakers. What a comfy choice!

So, funny story: At the exact moment of the first kiss, Jaylen yelled, "Ewwwww!" which obviously cracked everyone up. Looking at these photos though, I think a bug flew into her mouth, which was probably what she was really "ewwwing" about. Can we verify this, Julie? Lisa? :)

Julie's sister, Mallory, SANG the father/daughter song. Oh my goodness. Such a sweet moment.

Julie and Jaylen had their very own dance too.

Ceremony: Harbin Park Reception: Receptions Fairfield Florist: Two Little Buds DJ: Everlasting Sounds Bride's Dress: David's Bridal Bridemaids' Dresses: David's Bridal Tuxes: Men's Wearhouse Honeymoon: Punta Cana!

Sarah & Anthony | Weymouth Country Club Wedding

April 8, 2014

I had the honor of documenting Sarah and Anthony's beautiful, gilded wedding just a few weeks ago. My favorite things about their wedding:

Anthony's excitement and nervousness to see his bride.
Sarah and Anthony's pinky promise to each other during their wedding vows. So cute!
The beautiful sunset just outside their sparkly gold reception hall. I adore sunsets on wedding days.
The adorable interactions between Sarah and Anthony at the reception. I was grinning from ear to ear while going through their photos!

These two have something super special. Anthony looks at Sarah like she is the very best thing to ever happen to him, and Sarah is all smiles when her husband is around. You guys, keep that up throughout your marriage. I'm so honored to have photographed the first day of your journey together!

Sarah's sparkly Kate Spade shoes were so fun to photograph!

Sarah and Anthony had a first look at the Arcade. My lovely second shooter, Markie, caught that moment below of Anthony waiting for his bride.

That one up there on the right is a favorite! The gold on the stairs perfectly tied into Sarah's theme.

Succulents are such an awesome wedding favor!

Ceremony: Medina Presbyterian Church Reception: Weymouth Country Club Florist: Farah and Nour Cake Artist: Tina Lentile-Jackson DJ: Divine Time Entertainment Hair and Makeup: Rania's Hair Salon & Spa Bride's Dress: Brides by Demetrio's Bride's Shoes: Kate Spade Tuxes: Men's Wearhouse Décor and Lighting: Simply Elegant Transportation: A Touch of Elegance Honeymoon: Jamaica!

Amber & Josh | Urban Cincinnati Wedding

March 21, 2014

Amber knew almost immediately that Josh was the one for her. It happened over Chinese food.

"I remember looking at Josh during our first dinner together at Friendship Chinese and immediately feeling like he was the one for me," she said. "I went home later that night and told my roommates that I really felt like I could marry him, which shocked all of us as I was never 'that girl,' but I just knew in my gut that he was my one."

Amber and Josh are so kind. Some of the kindest people I've ever met. They're positive and happy. They're genuine, and after just one meeting with them you know that they are interested in you and what you have to say. They love laughing together, and they don't take themselves too seriously. They support each other no matter what. Amber and Josh's Cincinnati wedding was a joyful celebration because of who these two are separately and together.

Congratulations, you guys! Thank you SO much for your hospitality and generosity. I left your wedding with a big smile on my face. :) You two are the real deal.

I loooove photographing weddings in Cincinnati!

Beautiful, Amber!

While I was with the girls, my fabulous second shooter Jeni was with the guys.

Amber and Josh had the sweetest first look ...

Then it was off to Over-the-Rhine for some urban portraits …

LOVE this shot that Jeni captured just above! The benefits of having a second shooter: While she was capturing this, I was capturing the photo above this one.