This post has taken me 5 billion years to get together, and this is because it’s, by far, the longest post ever on this blog. No lie. Why? Well, I had the honor of photographing the wedding of a dear friend I’ve known since junior high. And let me tell you, that was a L O N G time ago. Needless to say, she’s like a sister to me, and it was impossible to narrow down photos for this blog since I was completely emotionally invested. I cried at least 5 times. No lie.
So many things were wonderful in this wedding. Not just because it was for a friend. From a photography standpoint, the outdoor pictures we took were a dream because the light and the scenery at Quail Ridge Park on this day were absolutely perfect. The ceremony took place just a little before sunset, and we had the most amazing light for all the portraits and ceremony. On top of that, Gretchen was one of the happiest brides I have ever seen. I love when my brides are relaxed and happy on their day, but that doesn’t always happen. Despite a few little glitches before the wedding, Gretchen was smiling and laughing through it all. That made me happy as both photographer and friend.
All the little details were great, too. Her bouquet was stunning, hair and makeup were perfect, and I LOVED Lenny’s suit. Such a great choice for an outdoor wedding, in my opinion. Honestly, it was just amazing day, and I was so grateful to be there to capture their day. And, now it’s time for some pictures. Well, ok, 5 million pictures…(Well, maybe only 60.)
Did I mention we had some great light at the hotel where the girls were getting ready? No dark, dungeon-like church. Love.
Gretchen’s mom was pretty happy that day, too.
I thought Holly did a magnificent job with Gretchen’s makeup, especially her eyes. She looked stunning.
Some mimosas for the ladies, well, the little lady (Bella, Lenny’s daughter) had straight-up OJ.
Everyone looked amazing.
I rented a tilt-shift lens for the wedding. It was SO much fun to play around with, and I’m pretty fond of this image.
Yes, Gretchen’s mom, Sonje, had to use her foot to get Gretchen’s dress tight enough.
Gret, you’re gorgeous.
While all the girls were at the hotel, my husband (and frequent second shooter) was at Lenny’s best man’s house with the guys while they got ready.
Love their expressions. Dan caught this one!
She was laughing all day.
Hello tilt-shift…I never want to let you go.
Dan shot this while Gretchen and her dad waited to walk down to the ceremony.
Juuuuust a little happy.
Isn’t it a beautiful place for a ceremony?
Thanks to Dan for capturing this one.
Beautiful golden light I was so happy to see.
So one thing I noticed about shooting a good friend’s wedding is that pretty much everyone is comfortable around me because their family knows me. I can’t say I’ve ever caught a sibling shot like this. Love it. Thanks for being your silly selves, you guys.
I totally teared up when Lenny was talking to everyone at the reception. I’m so happy they found each other.
The photobooth was quite the hit.
The end.
Ceremony + reception: Quail Ridge Park
Makeup: Holly Speakes
Cupcakes: Jilly’s
DJ: Marlon with TKO
Reminds me of my little 4-year-old. 
