Blake + Josh
6.15.2024
Getting Ready + Details
I started off the day getting a tour of their property from Blake's lovely Mama, Gina, followed along by their friendly, happy dog, Bella. The family truly made their home into what the couple envisioned for their wedding day- elegance, embracing outdoors.
Blake and her Girls were inside the house getting ready, while Josh and his Groomsmen enjoyed the pond and relaxed on the porch, having mostly prepped at Josh's Parents.
I set up their beautiful details on the front porch, with a bit of help from Bella. I managed to clean off most of the muddy puppy prints—she was just adding her creative touch!
For most weddings, I arrive early to ensure I can capture all the little details that couples have carefully curated during their engagement. It’s so important to me to preserve these special moments for their big day.
My favorite aspect of these was easily those shoes! Blake selected a pair of Betsey Johnson flats, adorned with jewels that went perfectly with her Jenny Yoo gown. I couldn't recommend both of these brands more for weddings!
Getting Into The Gown
First Look + Private Vows
I am a huge advocate for First Looks! Not only do I feel they allow you to feel more at ease on such a monumental day, but they also help create more time on wedding day timelines. To learn more about First Looks, check out our blog dedicated to them here.
Blake + Josh chose to have a First Look that included their private vows. We selected the entrance to their magical woodsy ceremony site for their setting. The reactions they had after seeing each other for the first time on their big day were priceless.
Portraits
Since they had opted to do a First Look, we had time to sneak in more portraits! Which, I am always a fan of!
Wedding Party
The Wedding Party! Choosing your wedding party isn't something to take lightly. These are your best people, the ones you feel the most comfortable with, the ones you trust in helping you to make your day even more perfect. They even added an extra favorite ring bearer, their dog, Benji!
When we did their timeline, something that was important to Blake
+ Josh was doing something fun and original with their wedding party. I decided to bring some silly facial expression photo props and we did just that! These were so much fun to take and turned out so cute! They basically have their very own wedding party Brady Bunch!
First Look With Dad
While hiding away before their ceremony, we decided that Blake's Dad deserved his own moment with her before the big walk. An impromptu first look was set up by the pond. Although it was brief, it was such a sweet moment. You can tell how special this Father, Daughter bond is.
Ceremony
Their guests, eager to witness the ceremony, patiently awaited the arrival of the wedding party. Orchestral covers of modern songs played as they walked down the tree-lined aisle. The beautiful florals and elegant setup made the scene feel like a moment straight out of Bridgerton.
When Blake and her dad came into view, happy tears filled many eyes. Despite having already seen Blake, Josh was still overwhelmed with emotion—a truly unforgettable moment.
The ceremony itself was short and sweet, just as the couple wanted. They exchanged vows and rings and participated in a tree-planting ritual, reflecting their love for the outdoors. Hiking and exploring the wilderness together is a favorite pastime, and this adventure marked their most special one yet.
As they receded from the ceremony, celebratory confetti filled the air!
Floral Arch provided by Forever & Always Planning.
Officiant: Glen Eickhoff
Family
Family photos were taken at their floral arch and surrounded by the trees.
The Party
After photos it was time to PARTY!
Blake + Josh had Wood Fired Pizza + Gelato, all their favorite hiking snacks, and trivia! Of course, getting in some of the traditional aspects too of dancing and speeches.
Married Portraits
Right before we left for the evening, we made sure to sneak off for photos one more time. After all, they were officially married at that time!
second shooter: Kennedy
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1 Comments
Jun 22, 2024, 8:57:18 AM
Connie Swix - Everson/Swix wedding. Very creative and unique wedding photos with the wedding story. Loved every minute of this "Book". Beautiful bride and handsome groom. Perfect weather and location. A real winner.