Last weekend they exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony at the The Barn at Fallingwater that was definitely worth waiting for. I LOVE weddings at The Barn at Fallingwater and Ashley and Cory were such a beautiful, fun couple to have on the other side of my camera.

Ashley had a squad of awesome bridesmaids to help her all day. Seriously, her bridesmaids were so awesome!

While Ashley’s lovely mom, Kelly, and her fantastic sister, Alyssa help her into her dress, her bridesmaids provide emotional support.

Cory was dressed and ready when he arrived at the Barn. Ryan grabbed this shot of him heading out to meet Ashley for a First Look.

The weather was totally unpredictable, but I’m so happy that we had a few minutes of clear sky for their first look.

Adorable and beautiful. Ashley’s dress matches the setting perfectly.

Because of the threat of rain (more like threat of downpours), they chose an indoor ceremony. Definitely a tough call when they planned an outdoor event but they can shift their focus to each other instead of worrying about the weather.

Ashley’s dad, Scott walks her down the aisle. Flowers by Curly Willow

Rev. Mark from A Simple Vow gave a beautiful ceremony. I’ve been to quite a few weddings with Rev. Mark and he does a great job EVERY TIME. I don’t know how he writes such unique ceremonies each time. It was very sincere, personal, and classy.

Mr. & Mrs!

Ashley shows off her new bling bling

One of the biggest perks to having your wedding at the The Barn at Fallingwater is the photo session at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater. We were there while it was still open to the public and so many people (besides Ryan and I) were taking photos of Ashley and Cory. Who could resist this???

Then we headed back to their reception.

After dinner and cake by Potomac Bakery, DJ Andy Booth got the party started.

First dance!

This may be one of my favorite first dance photos ever.

I know I already mentioned him, but DJ Andy Booth is one of my favorite wedding DJs. Of course this is the Dirty Dancing lift during “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.” Amazing.

Congratulations, Ashley and Cory! I hope that your wedding was worth the wait. Have a great time on your honeymoon in Hawai’i!

-Anna and Nick are both graduating next weekend with Master’s Degrees from Carnegie Mellon University

-They just found out they’re moving to Richmond, Virginia for Nick’s MD/PhD program in the fall and Anna’s new job

- And they planned an entire wedding! The date was May 7th…..a date selected so many of their school friends would be able to come (during final exams!)

So great job, Anna and Nick! That CMU work ethic really served you well as you were taking finals AND putting reception seating assignments together. I am so impressed. So let’s get to that special day which I started with Anna, her bridesmaids, and a bunch of her family members to see Anna become a bride.

Fantastic hair and makeup by Justine from Beauty Justified.

They chose a First Look at the Hall of Sculpture in the Carnegie Museum of Art and Natural History. What an incredible space for such a special moment!

While you see it right here, Anna’s awesome bouquet by Mocha Rose Floral & Event Design.

Photo by Nicki. I love this photo and I wish I had taken it. I was taking the photo above so I would be out of her way.

Hall of Architecture. Every bride and groom should visit this room on their wedding day.

Anna and Nick’s wedding ceremony was held at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Oakland.

Photo by Nicki.

Here’s a story that Anna will probably never live down: Immediately following the exchange of rings, the priest said “You can kiss” quietly to Anna and Nick. Anna heard “You can sit” and sat down. There were some chuckles from the crowd because they just missed the opportunity for their first kiss on the altar. I had to wait until their recessional (below) to get that first kiss as a married couple. I still think it’s a good one.

Next 2 photos by Nicki. I’m going to stop calling out her photos each time because she’s so awesome that you wouldn’t be able to guess who took which photos anymore.

Anna told me that her wedding was Etsy-themed. I loved it.

I would totally have my wedding at the Carnegie Museum just to have my wedding photos taken with a dinosaur. Sorry groomsmen on the far left, you’ll be the first one to be eaten.

Anna and Nick had their first (unofficial) date under a tree.

I think Anna chose the museum to have photos in front of this bug-wall.

Taking photos around the Carnegie Museum was a huge benefit of having their wedding reception in the Carnegie Music Hall Foyer. It is such a beautiful space with great architecture and beautiful, interesting spots for photography.

Catering and this beautiful cake by Parkhurst Dining Services. The flower decorations are all made of sugar and totally edible.

Anna approves. (Photo by Nicki)

Entertainment Director Jeremy from Jeremy Ganss Productions keeps the crowd on the dance floor.

The last hug during the last song.

And ringshot. These tiny chairs are made out of paper and were actually the escort cards for the reception tables.

You’ll see more from this wedding later this week AND a short film by Christina from Syncopated Pictures coming soon!

Congratulations, Anna and Nick! Have a great time on your honeymoon and good luck with your move!/school!/job!

“We met at a party that Emerson had scheduled for all the freshmen during orientation. At the party, everyone received a balloon, blew it up, and threw it in the air. As the balloons were coming back down, we were all instructed to grab one and pair up with someone of the opposite gender with a different colored balloon. It was one of those moments where everyone is already paired up around you and you’re starting to get nervous that you’re going to be that odd man out. But then Harry turned around… and so did another girl. Harry looked from this other girl to me and back again. Then he turned to me and said, “You’re mine.” Yes, that’s right. Harry’s first words that he ever spoke to me were ‘You’re mine.’”

Obviously, it was meant to be. And with such a beautiful story, how could they not have a beautiful wedding day?!? Their wedding was a fantastic party and I was so happy to be there to share in their wedding day.

There was an abundance of smiles all day. And I got caught in a mirror again.

Oh man, I wore Chuck Taylors on my wedding day too! Just like Harry and Kayt were meant to be together, maybe I was meant to be their wedding photographer……

Kayt’s dress by BCBG.

Nicki joined Harry, Alan, and Tyler at the Downtown Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel. They were already dressed when she arrived, but it looks like they had a great time hanging out.

Photography was super important to Kayt. In fact, right after Harry proposed, she said “Yes!” followed soon by “It’s time to find a photographer.” Kayt and Harry made time for a First Look AND more time for photography between the ceremony and reception. With so much time, we can relax and make great photos together.

Photo by Nicki

This day brought, rain, snow, and sunshine.

Harry is hilarious! He gave Kayt a few kisses on her head, noting that her hairspray was “sticky” and “tastes gross.”

One of my favorites.

Their wedding was held at 7:30pm at the Library & Archives room at the Heinz History Center. Ashley and Lindsey from Hello Productions were there to make sure everything went smoothly. Musician John Puckett also performed.

Photo by Nicki

Flowers by Gardener’s Eye

Kayt and Harry chose the readings for the ceremony, which included “i carry your heart with me” by E.E. Cummings. Stu Boehmig gave an excellent service that was very personal. (Teaser! You may get to see/hear some of this fantastic wedding ceremony in an upcoming wedding cinema by Christina Montemurro.)

Photo by Nicki

Married!!

We took some more time for a super fun (and cold) twilight photo shoot in downtown Pittsburgh and reception at Olive or Twist!

On 6th street right outside of the Byham Theatre

Olive or Twist! Entertainment provided by Steve Lebo of Party Time Productions.

Photo by Nicki

Congratulations, Harry and Kayt! I’m so happy for both of you to be able to marry your best friend!

Since I haven’t posted one in a long time—a dress shot.  I’m so glad I carried this dress outside, stole a chair from a computer lab, hung up the dress and took this shot.

Tim and the guys relaxing before the wedding.  Photo by Nicki.

Briana and Tim chose to see each other before the wedding.  Briana said that they wanted to have a few minutes alone to talk before seeing each other for the first time during the ceremony.  This area outside of Old Main was beautiful!

Lookin’ good, Tim.

Not as good as Briana.

I LOVE this little lace jacket that was part of her dress.

I was in love with this architecture (just like Briana told me I would be).

Photo by Nicki.

Commencement Hall.

Briana and Tim said their wedding vows in unison as they observed the Celtic tradition of holding an Oath Stone.

After a light reception in the portico of Old Main, we had plenty of time for photos on the most beautiful parts of campus.

My favorite–angel light.

Then it was off to dinner and dancing at Peter’s Place.  Entertainment by Quintech Entertainment.

A friendly groomsmen getting down with grandma.

Shout! is one of my favorite wedding songs.  I love that crocodile.

Tim getting down in spite of that broken (shattered) wrist.

Congratulations, Briana and Tim!!!!!!

Jessi’s awesome dress.

Jessi putting on her beautiful dress.  I love Keagan on the phone.

Real laughs

Jessi and Benjamin saw each other at a private meeting before the wedding.  They got to spend a few moments alone.  Truly a rare occasion on a wedding day.  Once they had their private moments, we took a TON of photos with the two of them together.

Three photos of Jessi by Christina Montemurro.  Thanks for your help, Christina!

It was a super special time. Jessi cried at the first look meeting and Benjamin cried in the church.

How did they get this gorgeous day in November?

Beautiful

The bridal party met us at Washington and Jefferson’s campus for some group photos around the courthouse.

The famous triple kiss for this new family. Image by Christina.

You were right, Benjamin, you should have worn pink socks.  Because Jessi is totally stealing the show with those shoes and hot pink petticoat.

There it is!

If you check out the engagement photos, this is how they say “I love you” without words.

Jessi still married Benjamin even though he is a Flyers fan.  At least she is the Captain.

First Dance.  Excellent entertainment by DJ Andy Hutelmyer.

After about 10 seconds of dancing alone, they were joined by their son, Keagan.  It was so special.

More from Jessi and Benjamin…They had these jerseys made for their engagement session, but we had to keep them a secret for the wedding.  Secret’s out!

Wedding date: November 14, 2009.

Jessi is “Captain” and Benjamin “Assistant Captain.”

Penalty on Jessi!

Love this too.

Congratulations Jessi and Benjamin!!!

Alison and Paul chose to wed at The Peace With Inn, a beautiful bed and breakfast in Freyburg, Maine (near North Conway, New Hampshire).  Alison and Paul actually got ready in the same place, making for a really relaxed environment.  On the left, is Alison’s ring, the penny that was in her mom’s shoe on her wedding day, a penny for Alison’s shoe on this wedding day.  On the right is Alison’s awesome dress.  The texture of the fabric was amazing!

Even though they got ready together.  Alison’s dress was top secret.  She put it on right before meeting Paul for pre-ceremony photographs.

They were so relaxed all day.  This is the only time that Alison was emotional about seeing Paul and everything coming together.  It was a really nice moment.

We abducted the bride and groom (willingly, of course) for some photos in this beautiful field.  At the rehearsal, Alison said “We scouted around and found a great place to take some photographs.  There is a large, open field with mountains in the background.  We should be there right before sunset. We think you will like it.”  My mouth was watering…..justifiably so!

Alison was so outgoing and willing to walk through these tall grasses in her dress.  Hi Linda (Alison’s mom)!  I think Linda would have had a heart attack if she saw the trek Alison made through this field.  So worth it and no body could tell!

The field was directly across from this old, weathered church.  On Monday, I got this in an email from the bride “Forgot to add that when we were heading out for our sight-seeing on Saturday we passed that church and they were painting it!!!! Seems they had re-painted the three other sides (hence the ladders on the other side of the church) and the one that we photographed in front of was the last one to be completed. Perfect timing for us, right?????”  Amazing!

Alison purchased (and returned) seven different pairs of shoes before deciding on these pink heels.

Alison’s parents walked her down the aisle together.  I think this is the only time when Alison’s dad didn’t have his camera out taking photographs.

The ceremony was beautiful! I thought it was really great because they chose a reading that I had also chosen for my own wedding.  Union by Robert Fulghum.

Unexpectedly, the temperature dropped to a low 29F that night.  Guests hung out by the fire or inside of the Inn.  Luckily, the real cold didn’t begin until the wedding and dinner was over.

I had a wonderful time and am so honored that Alison and Paul invited me to be with them for two very special events.  Stay tuned for more “a&p” at the end of October.

Wedding and reception location – The Peace With Inn

Caterer – Chef’s Market – SO GOOD!  The dinner was wonderful.  Ryan and I traveled to their store on Saturday for lunch because we couldn’t get enough!  Worth a trip to North Conway just for this meal.

Hair and Makeup – Head Games

Flowers – Dutch Bloemen Winkel

Bed and Breakfast – Admiral Peary House – Ryan and I stayed here.  It was a really nice place with a wonderful breakfast too!

I have known Laura since we were 13 and in middle school.  She was cooler than me then, and she is cooler than me now!  haha  Here are some images from her gorgeous and fun wedding.

Laura and her bridesmaids spent their morning at the The Spa at Nail Galleria in the Omni William Penn.  She then went to her parents’ home to get ready.  I had been to her house many times while growing up, but I’d never been in several rooms in her house as they belonged to her older sisters!  Since her sisters are married with homes of their own, Laura got ready in one of these rooms.

Laura and Mark had a “first look” meeting before the ceremony.  We took these in this beautiful area next to the church’s school.  Laura and I worked on some bridal portraits before Mark arrived.

When Mark came out to meet her, he was all smiles….and so was she!

We had a great portrait session!

The rest of the bridal party joined us so we took all of the necessary shots.  After the ceremony, we took a few family shots and headed to the reception.  I think it s great when a couple can attend their cocktail hour.  Friends and family have come so far to see the wedding and its great spend the wedding day with the people you’ve invited.

This beautiful pin attached to Laura’s bouquet belonged to Mark’s grandmother.

The light was perfect just before they got on the limo bus to go to the reception.  This is a seriously gorgeous couple!

Their first dance.

Laura is a aerobics/pilates/yoga/everything/dance instructor and personal trainer.  During the line dances, you could hear Laura giving instructions and encouragement to the guests.  Mark turned and said to me “Look, Laura is turning this into a dance class.”  He loved it.

Now it was Mark’s turn to lead.

My absolute favorite moment of the whole day.  Laura was singing “Boom Boom Pow” by the Black Eyed Peas right into my camera.  This is totally her personality!  I laughed so hard that my abs hurt when I saw this next image on my camera’s screen.

Laura is always the life of the party.  She was in a dance-off with Ryan’s brother, Chris when Ryan and I got married. And this one was definitely “I’m so 3008 – you so 2000-late!”

But things were so fun and easy all day!  The party went late into the night…..

Laura was so happy at the end of the night!  Congratulations Laura and Mark!  I love you!

Ceremony: St Therese in Munhall
Reception: Cefalo’s
Flowers: Plants and Flowers by Lisa
Salon: Spa at Nail Galleria – Owner, Michelle Yaksich
Entertainment: Jankowski DJ: 412.761.7077
Transportation: Tortorice Limo

Sara told me that the theme for her wedding was “fun and stress free” when some people may have said “black and white with sunflowers.”  I took this shot at 7:30am when Sara returned from her 6am run and was getting ready.

The morning light was extremely beautiful!

I really love these two shots together.  I took the one of Catriona and Sara fixing their hair and Ryan captured this shot of Nigel (in Manual mode with available light, Thank you very much!)  I love Catriona’s curlers and both of their facial expressions.  Nigel looks so “dapper” in those shades.

The compass is a symbol that Sara and Nigel hold dear.  The cardinal directions, NESW are also their initials….Nigel Edwards and Sara Winter.  Bitchin’ cufflinks!

Sara and Nigel are extremely happy together and totally in love. Their wedding began at 11:30 am and this is a photo I grabbed during their “first look” at 9am.  Look at that expression on Nigel’s face!  He got to see her again for the first time during the ceremony at it was just as good when he saw Sara heading his way.

They had a few minutes to themselves during this time to chat and be totally in love.

We (Nigel, Sara, Ryan, and I) took a walk around the golf course for a few more shots.  For this one we did a little bit of trespassing onto an adjacent property.  I think it was worth if for the shade of those trees.  Who knew that the sunlight at 9:30am could be so gorgeous?!?

Incredible!

Right before a visit from two golf carts full of country club guests excited to see the bride and groom.  Sara was stunning in her halter-style gown so of course she could stop traffic.

If you notice Sara’s earring in this next shot, you can see that she was jumping around during this time too!

At 10am we got through the family shots.  Nigel’s sons, Jake and Aaron were not happy with posing for photos….until they got these sweet mini-fans!  So the fans are in all of the shots with the kids.  I love it!

Nigel is Welsh and many of his groomsmen came over from Wales to be with Nigel and Sara for the day.  I learned during Nigel’s speech during the reception that the groomsmen had a lot of problems  ordering the suits for the wedding as Wales participates in the Metric System.  They love him……

Isn’t this the best looking group of bridesmaids you’ve ever seen!?!?!  Ok so, YES, I was a bridesmaid in this wedding–there I am on the far right.  How is that possible, you ask?  I organized the group formal shots, then slid in while Ryan and Nicki snapped away.  I was not in the ceremony because I was busy shooting.  Then later I got to put down my camera and do a little dancing.  It was totally great!  For the bridesmaids dresses, Sara wanted to continue the “fun and stress-free” theme allowing us all to use our own black dress, do our own hair and makeup.  Looks pretty spectacular to me!  The sunflowers are absolutely beautiful too.

Blog readers, you may recognize some of these bridesmaids from other weddings like Jamie and Kelly on the far left and Krissy standing right next to me.  Leigh Ann is also a friend of Sara’s but couldn’t make it to the wedding as she was enjoying her own honeymoon in Cabo.  Sara is a huge fan of mine and a shameless promoter of my photography.  I LOVE her for that and Sara is a huge reason that I am a photographer today!

That is one hot bridal party!

Again, Sara is gorgeous!  Sara has another mantra…… “sunshine, lollipops, and rainbows!”  But all she is thinking about right now is seeing Nigel again.  It doesn’t have to be the wedding for Sara to be this happy when seeing Nigel anytime.

There is more from the ceremony in the slideshow below).   After the ceremony, the girls slipped away before cocktail hour started.  It was time for a circle-high-five.  Awesome!

Their first dance.  The look on both of their faces says it all.  They really were “fun and stress-free” all day and  you could feel that.

Since the wedding was early, all of the little kids were ready to party since it was only 1pm.  The dancing was out of control fun!

Aaron is looking to Aunt Catriona for advice on this dance moves.  Cheryl (mother of the bride) looks awesome in her hot pink dress.

Tom Jones is a Welshman and Nigel is a huge fun. It was awesome to her Tom Jones’ version of “Kiss” by Prince and then the classic “It’s Not Unusual.”  Made for some great group singing.

Bridesmaids dancing….so awesome!

For the last song, there was a little “couples mosh-pit” to surround the newlyweds.

As Sara’s mom said “The final photo says it all. The expression on your face is stunning.”  I couldn’t agree more.  The whole day was beautiful and fun and wonderful, just like Sara and Nigel. 

I was honored to be a part of this wedding, both in the bridal party and as the photographer.  I love you, Sara and Nigel!