Michael and Valeries wedding last Saturday was such a breath of fresh air for me. From the house they were getting ready in (Church-house) to the family and friends that came to show their love, I was so inspired by this couples special day.
I had the pleasure of shooting their engagement session this summer, check out a few of my favorites below! Michael and Valerie have an awesome love story! She came to work for him, and then found out he had bought a really cool renovation project- the church where she grew up going to, and lived down the road. Their first date was a beautiful south side evening, starting at the Gandy Saloon, and ending at the Grand Concourse for dinner on the Incline. He surprised her at Point State Park Fountain on one knee, and obviously she said Yes!
We started the day at their home. I was in heaven shooting all of her amazing jewelry and florals. I always love starting the day with the details, it sets the tone for the rest of the day for me, and gets my creative side of the brain working! I found a great spot for her dress, at the bottom of their staircase with the original banisters from the church leading your eye to her gown. Her shoes were so gorgeous on their own, I had to shoot them a few times! Mike and Val bought each other gifts the day of, they snuck away to open them though! Little stinkers. Val bought Mike an amazing right hand ring pictured near the end of their portraits, and Mike bought Val the most beautiful heart necklace. Val’s wedding band was also a surprise, she had never seen it before! So stunning.
After we finished up with all of the details, Val slipped into her dress and we decided to do a “Peek a Boo” Shot in their now living room! Val Hung out with her daughter and future daughter, and her grand daughter (Who rocked the dance floor the entire night)! Meanwhile, Mikes mom pinned his boutonniere and we got ready for the ceremony.
I positioned myself to get a perfect view of both the bride walking down the aisle, and getting the grooms reaction. It was so perfect, Val was beaming, and Michael was overcome with emotion! After the ceremony, they had a beautiful reception line and welcomed all of their guests.
Mike and Val and the bridal party made their grand entrance into their reception. They went into the cake cutting, and then toasts, and a blessing. They had dinner catered by Luigi’s! We enjoyed their famous hot sausage, tomato and onion salad, side salad, meatballs, pasta and marinara, grilled vegetables, the most amazing chicken I’ve ever had, and rolls with butter! They started into their first dances after dinner. Mike and Val shared a beautiful first dance, and followed with a first dance with Mike and his momma. It was so touching. After that, Val shared a first dance with her 3 children. Once again, I was tearing up behind the camera. You guys know the first dance always get me! After the festivities, the brides granddaughter was on the dance floor the entire night. She had such a great time, and all of the guests were so entertained watching her!
I had such an amazing time and Mike and Val’s wedding, and I wish I could go back. After this torrential downpour these past few weeks, we lucked out on weather too! Everything was so perfect, including the two of them together.
Michael and Valerie, you two are such an inspiration to me. I am so glad that you two have found each other, and brought your families together as one. I wish the both of you as much happiness the world has to offer you.
XOXO-Jaclyn
GOWN | EXQUISITE BRIDE, MURRYSVILLE PA
TUXEDO | WHITE LACE BRIDAL, INDIANA PA
FLORALS | FLO’S FLORAL
CAKE | JENUINE CAKES
RINGS | MOSES JEWELERS
MAKE-UP | BELLA SPA
CATERING | LUIGI’S OF DUBOIS
TENT, TABLE, LINENS | FREEPORT TENTS
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Turns out Michael is a lover of fun socks! The girls think its hilarious too…
She was so surprised!
Such a gorgeous bride!
Hank the tank 🙂 New grandson!
One of my favorite shots all day! Right before the ceremony…
His face says it all!
Categories: Weddings
