Weddings that open up the year are always pretty exciting, and even more so when they follow the ups and downs of 2020. This one brought back into focus some much needed laughter, loveliness and joy. Add to that the excitement of photographing in a new venue, The Hotel Carmichael. Such a jaw dropping beauty (the hotel and the bride)! And still, the icing on the cake comes down to the sweet couple that says I do. Anna and Freddy were full of gratitude and happiness all day, with that charming bit of nervous excitement that we love to capture. From their snowy engagement session last year to this pretty in pink, classically elegant wedding day, there was a casual, honest affection between them that made every moment a good one. It’s such a good thing to notice that spark a couple has, and to know it will be there even on the more simple days ahead. Wishing Mr. & Mrs. Rastede a wonderful life together, full of blessings. Many thanks to the vendors of the day and the awesome friends and family that made this day so special. We were truly honored to be a part of it!

Hotel Carmichael, flowers by Oberer’s, dress by Gretchen’s Bridal Gallery, suit by DCTux, hair by Platinum Hair & Design of Zionsville and Makeup by Olvia Rodriguez.

Ooh such a pretty wedding this was! Olivia and Andy chose such a romantic look for their high rise wedding day. The sunshine bounced around on happy faces while the wind kissed layers of delicate fabric and gorgeous flower arrangements. A meeting of the elements to the elegance of the evening making of some stunning results. There are so many reasons, but one thing we love most about photographing at the JPS Events at Regions Tower is seeing how the space changes as the day carries on into night. Rays of sunshine touch everything in site, and slowly, the light shifts and sky takes over. Sneaking out for sunset photos is always a must, and I’m so glad Mr. & Mrs. Kropp were able to fit this in just before the toasts. Their laughter and youthful spirits were such good reminders to soak it all up, especially with the one you love. The glow of the moon grew brighter and brighter in the night as it hung above their first dance and party as it continued. Wishing these two countless evenings of sunset views and many more memorable sways under the moon lit sky. Happy almost one year anniversary!

Special thanks to Plum and Poppy Weddings & Events for the wonderful planning and hands on day of work, such a comfort and pleasure to work together again with this wonderful family as we did a few years ago for Olivia’s sister {Julie & Adam} Leslie Hair & Makeup did an amazing job on all of the ladies, in perfect timing. Even after sky high winds, gorgeous hair remained! The flowers, oh those flowers, really set the scene for so much of the romance. I could have photographed the details all night! Thank you Violets are Blue, truly beautiful work. Then that CAKE! All that sweetness wrapped up in pure art by Classic Cakes. So dramatic! The ceremony, the dance floor, the mood music at dinner… we all know how much this sets the tone of things as well, and as you can tell, DJ Mike Campbell of Sound Advice delivered. A great day to share with great vendors!

The dress, the veil, the soft elegant charm. From the light that flows through the windows by day to the city lights glowing by night, you’d imagine the inclusion of an old train in the mix would be too much. But there it all is, and just steps from so many other options. Allison and Andrew married under an arbor of modern decor by Lilly Lane and with the kind of light filling the room that makes my heart skip a beat! There were tears, smiles, laughter and more smiles. Be it family or friend, this was a special opportunity to be together and celebrate. In the Crowne Plaza, no less! Historically, this building causes you to pause and take note, from the Grand Hall to here in the Illinois Street Ballroom and everywhere in between. But it’s no surprise that it’s really always the people, the love story at hand, that gives even these spaces their purpose. As the room transformed from the gorgeous ceremony setting to the perfectly set reception, the walls continued to have the best view of old and young, new and old love, long romantic veils and perfectly knotted bow ties. Ours was pretty wonderful too. Thank you for a lovely day Allison and Andrew.

Crowne Plaza Union Station . True Colors Styling . Lilly Lane Flowers .

What a perfect wedding day this was. From the lace details to the botanical beauty all around, Kathryn and Peter were wrapped up in a landscape of romance. Their love for one another and joy for this day is so clear to see, youth filled and all heart. It was such a pleasure to work side by side with vendors who not only made the space perfect, but saw the same blessing upon these two. We started at the Lindley Farmstead to capture some getting ready moments and portraits, headed to Our lady of Mount Carmel for the golden ceremony and then returned to the farm for the magical evening ahead. So grateful for the time we built in to ensure we would have the sanctuary and the barn to ourselves with the new Mr. & Mrs. The gorgeous moments just overflow! A special thank you to Angela and her decor of absolute gorgeousness, and also for referring us to this lovely family. When I nearly cry at the consultations with the mother of the bride, you know you are meant to be woven into the day and that it will carry a very special note of emotion and love. Perfect in every way Kathryn and Peter, we so enjoyed being a part of your special day!

Lindley Farmstead at Chatham Hills . Our Lady of Mount Carmel . Florals by Angela Kenley . DJDiamond Productions . IndyVisual . Ritz Charles

Simple does it. No better example than this romantic, sweet wedding held at the Boondocks Farm. Friends helped in all sorts of lovely ways, family was right there to support and greet the guests . . . a wedding that felt as home-grown as it did one of a kind. Katie and Josh endured the windy setting for photos and looked perfect doing so, some of my favorite wedding portraits there within this mix. And who isn’t kept a little warmer by the true friendships wrapped up in these smiles, so many good expressions! There is a cool confidence recognizable in this love. You can see it throughout, and such tender moments within their ceremony were reminders of just how much love can pull the heart to truth. The night was magical, beautifully twinkling with a talented DJ who knew just what to play, music that encouraged a life long groove, not fleeting, but the kind of beats that remind you to enjoy the moments and take it all in. If there was one thing I loved most about these two, that would sum it up. They were present, living the day out immersed in the fun of their love. So glad to have been a part of how they will remember their wedding day.

Venue Boondocks Farm . Makeup by Andrew Elliot . Flowers by Petals & Pollen .

What a wonderful day Samantha and Cameron shared with us. We knew from the start it would include some pretty fancy people, some leaders of our cities and mark makers within the community, and as impressive as that was, it was the sweet, appreciative and humble spirits of Sam and Cameron that warmed our hearts. On such a cold day in November, that warmth was certainly needed! It was obvious that those they included in the wedding day were drawn to these two for the same reason, a kindness and gentle candor that was only complimented by the company of one another. They happily said “I Do” in the old Woodruff Place Baptist church with the honorable mayor Joe Hogsett and senator Joe Donnelly officiating the wedding, sharing in big smiles as the new Mr. & Mrs. were officially named. The celebration was carried on into the gym of the church for a unique and touching toast to their guests, and lastly onto the Broadmoor Country Club adorned in gold and crimson to dance the night away. Signature Events by Barbie made sure that all was set from start to finish; bringing the details together, keeping the day on track and quickly taking care of anything and everything that was needed. So much love and expertise in what she does, and it shows. We are grateful to have documented this day alongside all of those who helped in making it the official “Mr. & Mrs. Radford Day” (quite literally)! Hoping that 2021 brings them a wonderful second year of marriage!

Wedding planner and florist Signature Events by Barbie DJ Services MJballroom Venue Broadmoor Country Club Church Woodruff Place Baptist

Where better to be during a snow storm than within the Scottish Rite Cathedral getting married!! Nothing but warm hearts and sparkling details. There was chatter around the reception as to how to make it home {I honestly questioned if we’d all be sleeping in the SRC}. But, that was soon drowned out by the fun, gorgeous moments of celebrating the newlyweds. And honestly, when you are as romantic as these two, what’s a little snow but a wonderland? Wishing Erika and TC a very happy one year anniversary.

Scottish Rite Cathedral Petal’s N’ Glass Kahn’s Catering AMS Entertainment

Oh my, this wedding!! I knew from the moment I met Codie that this was going to be a wedding day to remember. The elegance of their venue, the Columbia Club of Indianapolis, the grandeur of the cathedral, Sacred Heart of Jesus, and details planned to a tea by Aisle Ready Events were matched just so by a refreshingly fun, down to earth and completely happy couple with hearts completely full. You just can’t deny it when you see true love being celebrated, and knowing that is what the day is all about keeps all good things flowing. A very special thank you to Jodie of Aisle Ready Events for planning and orchestrating such a wonderful day, Troy of DJ Sound Solutions for keeping the dance floor bouncing, The Empty Vase for the gorgeous flowers, Classic Cakes for an equally beautiful cake, Blush and Bobby Pins for that amazing hair and make up that lasted all day and even looked perfect as the night ended, LGI linens for the dressed to the nines tables, and one of our highlights of the day, meeting videographer Antonio Pantoja; such a pleasure to work with this kind and talented artist. A Classic Party Rental, Love Notes Calligraphy, Antique Limos, Don’t Drive Naked, and White River Music all helped make this day as picture perfect as it was. Reliving it through this blog has been a pleasure, so grateful to have been the photographers to capture Codie and Andrew’s day!!

Tyler and Tia celebrated their wedding in the gorgeous surroundings of the downtown Arts Garden.  The sky was soft and blue, the dress was absolutely stunning and there just couldn't be a better front row guest than their sweet baby girl. The Conrad offers such a classy look from preparation rooms to the perfectly timed dinner plates as they are placed in front of the guests ~ it is similar to a dance of delivery, and what could be more elegant than offering your guests their own champagne flute.  So fitting in this glass room of light and love.  It was all so well done, and most importantly, deeply felt.  Tyler's reaction to his bride, Tia's joy-filled smiles and the many special moments that these two shared as they took in the day and night.  Wishing them a wonderful first year of marriage, and all of life to follow.

The Conrad  Hotel                     The Indianapolis Arts Garden            Karen Hall                    Graceful Hands Floral Design                  Marie Gabriel Couture           Event Ones DJs          

What a gorgeous late fall day for a wedding on a farm with lush greens everywhere, little nooks of pines and corn stalks, and the barn made just right for a celebration.  Lauren and Branigan were such a happy couple, ready for their lives together to officially start as Mr. and Mrs.  The details were absolutely lovely and the setting was perfect from late morning to early night.  This family owned and operated property is run so well, I felt honored to be working on their little slice of heaven in Franklin, IN! Truly a family event in every way, especially with the invitation to photograph Branigan and his handsome crew in the original farm house as they prepared. The perfect spot for a little reflection before the "I do."  All the while, a quiet and sun kissed alter awaiting their special moment.  Wishing these two the best in their walk toward every sunrise they meet and from every sunset they watch go down, side by side.  

Barn at Crystal Springs Farm       AMS Entertainment      Farmers' Daughters florals   Hayden Goldsworthy videography

A little over a year ago this beautiful wedding basked in the light of all things romantic.  Lexi and Mike are the sort of clients you pray for, the ones you give thanks for . . . and their wedding was an absolute match.  In every way, gorgeous down to the very last detail!  Cheers to their kind and charming characters, the gentle love they have for one another and this day of memories they made.  But most of all, the many blessings awaiting them as they walk into their second year as husband and wife. 

Crowne Plaza Union Station        Sarah Bean (Coordinator)     St John's Evangelist     Lilly Lane   Classic Cakes     Day Job Films     My Yellow Rickshaw    Beauty Anywhere Makeup by Rachel    Ado Hair Design     Indy Photo Booths

    What a day!  Francesca and Scott did so much to make their wedding day personal, and even with so much thought put into these details, they both managed to look stunning when the moment came to say I do.  Francesca was such a gorgeous bride, flitting between compassionate conversations, silly explosions of giddiness and genuine moments of taking it all in.  And laughter, laughter, laughter!  No better sign of this great connection than to see Scott's own expression of happiness as his bride walked down the aisle.  There were moments when the guests were wrapped up in it all as well, so much joy and celebration throughout the ceremony through to the end of the night. In between this is the undeniable class and elegance of these two. Truly a wedding day to remember by all who were there, including myself.  Happy anniversary Mr. and Mrs. Wallsmith, may your smiles always reflect the love you feel inside.

Venue: Sofi B Events

One year passes so quickly.  Zak and Holly's wedding seems like just yesterday.  Like most weddings, there were many details and events scheduled for the day ~ but there was something calming within the excitement of these two.  They were making their love official, known to the world . . . and the rest would fall into place.  I love the romantic demeanor of their mood mixed with the glitz and glamour of the details, from dress to cake.  And there together in the Scottish Rite, this huge castle of a space, it was the feeling of being right at home that Holly and Zak expressed.  I believe they could have been anywhere, a busy street or among their families and friends, it was the together that counted.  The heart, the home, and their story beginning.  Happy one year anniversary, I know God is blessing you! 

Scottish Rite Cathedral       Jim Cerone     Oberer's Flowers     Unique Heart Productions  

     One wonderful day in May of 2016, we had the great pleasure of working with Julie and Adam . . . a match made for story telling with the very special name, Julie, at the center.  Sometimes it is all about timing, much how I remember their story from our first consultation, and definitely a key element to the wedding day.  Sarah of Plum and Poppy did a great job of all things punctual and pretty, along with the stunning work of Leslie White Hair and Makeup, and those sweet colorful flowers by Violets are Blue.  Their wedding party (especially the men, which you don't often hear such compliments about) were funny, kind and respectful...and even quite helpful when an extra hand was needed.  Julie's killer blue bedazzled shoes took on a life of their own, quietly resting among the twinkling details of the party and below the amazing chandeliers of this one of a kind venue.  Oh Alexander, such a complimentary scene to the love and memories being lived to the fullest there in your midst.  Julie and Adam, may those memories, that day and night, that special glow never leave you... a very happy one year anniversary.

Plum & Poppy      The Alexander Hotel       Violets are Blue      Circle City Sound     Simply Divine Cupcakes      Leslie White Hair and Makeup      Marie Gabriel Couture Bridal

Such a beautiful day!  The Inn at Irwin Gardens is one of those perfect locations for a wedding, from inside with the historical details to outside in the gorgeous gardens.  I can't imagine a prettier day for Kelsey and Jimmy to fill the house and its surroundings with their own love story.  Kelsey's hair, Jimmy's smile, the glorious sun and blue sky, the soft green of the trees as the light shone through... romantic in every way.  Morgan of Ashley Weddings and Events did a wonderful job of subtly keeping everything just right, from timing to flowers and the little surprises.  Pomp and Bloom created stunning decor and bouquets for the day, I absolutely love working in Columbus for these masterpieces alone!  And the wedding tone is always set right with Wes of Event One DJs. A little Indianapolis, a little Columbus, and a whole lot of the sweet Mr. & Mrs. stepping into married life, full of excitement, hand in hand. 

Inn at Irwin Gardens      Leslie White Hair and Make Up     Event One DJs     Ashley Weddings and Events    Pomp and Bloom

   I love when a long day ends with wanting to stay and enjoy more of the music!  Kavita and Dan had so many important, traditional and aesthetically gorgeous details within their day, but oh how fun it was to see their full and happy hearts expressed throughout the night as the reception opened up.  Happily married, happily experiencing such a special night around their favorite people, and definitely happily kicking off their shoes to celebrate.  Kavita was so thoughtful with her own artistic touch, and for a wedding to plan of this size, that is pretty impressive!  Beautiful bridesmaids, easy going groomsmen, loving families and an excited group of guests... nothing short of the kind of day where all the hard work pays off. And oh that rose window! Congratulations to the team who put this together, the happy new couple and the beautiful day where it all began.  Now back to the music, perhaps it really is the food of love.

Crowne Plaza Hotel    Atmospheres Indy    Opening Minds Entertainment    Karen Hall and Company     Heavenly Sweets  

    You don't always remember the initial meeting with your clients, especially after a wedding full of all the right things from itty bitty to grandiose.  But, with these two, it was one of those first encounters where I knew something good was in store.  Emotionally, romantically and respectfully, Henry and Paris are full of adoration for one another, without a doubt.  Sprinkle in a lot of humor and candidness as well!  I could hear the comfort and friendship within their relationship in just listening to their hopes for the big day, and I'd say it proved to be even more perfect than we could have imagined.  Jodie of Aisle Ready Events did an amazing job of planning the day, every detail as sweet as the next.  Paris and Henry ~  thank you for having us document your wedding day, it was truly a pleasure.  Keep laughing, crying, dancing and doing that fabulous dip you do!  We wish you both the very best. 

Scottish Rite Cathedral     Aisle Ready Events    JP Parker Flowers   Simply Perfection Cakes   Track Seven DJ   Arontsam Fine Jewelers    Marie Gabriel Couture   Karen Hall & Co                    Video by 86 Grand Productions     Thomas Caterers of Distinction

Oh the sparkle!  This wedding really was one of those that you don't quickly forget.  What was well thought out and timed to perfection for a wedding schedule met its match with the downfall of a heavy rain, and then sunshine, and then rain... and so on.  And yet, never was the weather a burden to these newlyweds.  Perhaps making a trolley one of my new favorite sets for photographing, and even better when hiding out under a bridge. So romantic!  The Crowne set the perfect rosy palette to start and finish Kathryn and Nathan's wedding day, and oh does their reveal REVEAL the emotions of the day.  We couldn't make it to the IMA as planned, but despite the downpour, these two are walking into life together with smiles and unwavering blessings.  Perhaps it will bring them luck, like the old wives' tale says.  But personally, I don't think they will need it. 

Venue: Crowne Plaza Hotel      Ceremony: St. Mary's Cathedral      Flowers: Linda Aurellano       Cake: Simply Perfection      DJ:  PBJ Pro DJs      Video: Amor in Motion                                                Hair: Mary Kyle       Make Up: Hannah Smythe

So much golden light surrounding Sarah and Grant, and undeniably, kissed by the sunshine!  From the State House to the Indianapolis Museum of Art and the Deer Zink Pavilion,  light light light everywhere!  There is much to admire about this down to earth, gorgeous and completely in love with one another couple.  We are grateful to have photographed their wedding day and witness the genuine and candid smiles between them ~ I knew it was going to be such a wonderful day, and it was!  {more of their adorableness can be seen here from their engagement session}.

Wedding: Indiana State House    Reception: Indianapolis Museum of Art   Dress: Blue House Bridal  DJ: Midwest Sound   Flowers:Posh Petals