Posts tagged First Look | Page 6 of 9 | Columbus Wedding Photographer

Lauren & James – A Westwood Country Club Wedding

The week ahead of their wedding at Westwood Country Club in Rocky River, Lauren and James were finalizing some last details. “What happens if there’s rain,” Lauren asked. I quickly checked the weather and it was looking better than before. “It looks like we won’t have rain until after we’re inside,” I replied. The forecast had been changing rapidly the week before their wedding. One day the forecast called for all rain, the next it was all clear.

By the day of Lauren and James’ wedding, the forecast was called for 100% awesome. Making the day even better were the locations and their friends. Lauren and James smartly chose to simplify the wedding schedule by also doing the portraits at Westwood Country Club. The day started with a private first look between Lauren and James. Just moments before the first look, James read a letter from Lauren, which got the emotions and tears started. After the emotional first look, we stepped out on the the golf course The bridal party portraits. I love the royal blue bridesmaids dresses and how they matched Lauren’s shoes. The groomsmen also looked so sharp in their gray tuxes.

The entire bridal party was amazing, starting with James’ father as best man. The ladies were also lovely. Each one was attentive to Lauren and so engaged in the ceremony. I love that Lauren and James privately shared communion during the ceremony. I also love that the aisle way was lined with candles. And the confetti-filled send off of the couple from the ceremony was so much fun! Kicking the evening off was a wonderful cocktail hour on the patio under the setting sun.

Towards the end of the night, we even had a moment to sneak outside the club for just a few photos at sunset. It was the perfect cap to an amazing day. Below are just a few highlights to enjoy –

Westwood Country Club wedding with Lauren and James Westwood Country Club wedding with Lauren and James Westwood Country Club wedding with Lauren and James

The last photo above is one of my favorites. This little guy partied like a rock star, and then burned out early. I almost felt the same way. Lastly, a huge thanks to Daniel at Westwood County Club! Your graciousness is beyond what I could expect or want.

Reception venue – Westwood Country Club, Rocky River
Ceremony – Bay Presbyterian Church
Bridal gown – Paloma Blanca, from The Bridal Garden
Bridal hair & make-up – Color Nation Salon & Spa
Floral design – Jan Dell Flowers
Cake artist – Wild Flour Bakery
Entertainment – The Avenue Band, Jerry Bruno Productions

Julia & Evan – Spring Wedding at the Hyatt Arcade

“We’re not ready yet,” Elise said over the phone. “Can you start with the gentlemen?”

I answered “Of course and we’ll see you soon.” We headed up to room 346 at the Hyatt Arcade, where we found the gentlemen. I think the proper word in this case is definitely – gentlemen. They were dressed in unique tuxedos, each one a little different than the next. And these were proper tuxedos. James Bond tuxedos. Magazine cover tuxedos! Each of the four groomsmen looked perfect. Then there was Evan. He looked sharp and was ready for the big day. In fact, they all were ready.

Before long, the ladies were ready as well. Each bridesmaid wore a gorgeous dress in turquoise blue, outfitted with pockets. While they had matching dresses, each bridesmaid was also unique. Every bridesmaid had a unique peep-toe shoe in pewter. All of them similar, but a little different. Of course Julia was beaming. Every time a lady whispered “Your getting married,” Julia broke out in a huge smile. She looked perfect as well. She was beautiful, as always. Her dress was…stunning. It was a ruffled soft white and riveted with stunning bead word. Her shoes matched her new turquoise earrings, a gift from Evan.

So what’s so special about Julia and Evan’s wedding? It starts with the people. The bridesmaids and groomsmen were an absolute joy. Each one happy and energetic. The colors were swoon-worthy. Julia’s choice of orange circus roses really popped against the blue dresses. Lastly, the first look shared by Julia and Evan just outside the Arcade was emotional and loving. Although no one cried, especially the photographer. Just saying.

It’s been and thrill to work with Julia, Evan, their friends and family. I know they are going to have an amazing honeymoon and an amazing future together. Hopefully, you enjoy the highlights below from this very special wedding.

Hyatt Arcade spring wedding with Julia and Evan Hyatt Arcade spring wedding with Julia and Evan Hyatt Arcade spring wedding with Julia and Evan

Makiko & Dylan – A Holden Arboretum Autumn Wedding

It almost seems like ages ago when Dylan, Makiko and I first met. They were just beginning to plan their autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum’s Lantern Court. Truthfully, they had me sold at autumn wedding in Holden Arboretum. It just got better as I learned more about them. Clearly they’re in love. What’s different is the distance at which their love must remain active.

After initially falling in love, they have had to maintain their relationship over great distances. It almost seems like they have spent more of their relationship apart than together. Makiko, studying biology, currently lives on the west coast. Dylan, working in a rather secret job, reside on the east coast. As it has been for quite some time. However, you never feel the distance in their relationship. Clearly, it’s a marriage made to last.

And what a marriage it was. Lantern Court was decorated beautifully for their autumn wedding. Inside, the design was sleek and featured a very Japanese flair. Outside, nature took care of the rest. The trees in early October were just beginning to turn. Hints of orange, peach, crimson and purple were popping up all over.

Below are just a few highlights from one of my favorite weddings this year.

Autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum's Lantern Court with Makiko and Dylan

It goes without saying that Ramona did an amazing job with the styling. The ladies came out looking gorgeous, especially the bride.

Autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum's Lantern Court

Above, special candy favors made in the Father-of-the-bride’s home town and a very special kimono. I love the golden wave motif!

Autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum's Lantern Court

Little details inside Lantern Court. It’s as if everything was perfectly set for the wedding day.

Autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum's Lantern Court

Above – I love the Makiko’s mom and Maid of Honor looking as as she get’s ready. Below, taking care of all the last details.

Autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum's Lantern Court

What made this wedding a favorite? Makiko and Dylan’s first look photos. They came out perfectly, due completely to the moment.

Autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum's Lantern Court

One of my favorite photos from this past year came be seen above-left. I just love the peaceful moment.

Autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum's Lantern Court

In my world, there is nothing better than a first hug. After all, we all want to marry our best friend.

Autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum's Lantern Court

Above, a very beautiful and very Japanese centerpiece. Below, a wonderful toast by a close friend.

Autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum's Lantern Court

Above, an old Polish tradition – signing to the bride and groom. Below, a first dance certainly to remember.

Autumn wedding at Holden Arboretum's Lantern Court with Makiko and Dylan

That is all for today. More is definitely coming soon. And for Makiko and Dylan, I am sure you will have many wonderful years together. And after all that time apart, I am certainly the years will be together, forever.

Tagged: First Look