Mark + Grace’s Wedding Teaser
Today was the start of Dreamlite’s 2011 wedding season. What better way to start this season then with a chance to shoot a friend of ours, Grace’s wedding to Mark. I (Howie) shot this wedding solo as Jon, Dreamlite’s other photographer was still on assignment in Central America. (Check out his travel blog, http://www.jontheroad.com)
It was great to see how many people from her church mentioned how much they would miss her, as she starts her new life with Mark in California. As much as they hated for her to go, they all understood that this was the next step in God’s plan for her life. It was a touching wedding, sometimes you don’t need a lot of a things going on in your wedding to make it nice. Thanks Grace and Mark for having me be a part of your wedding, it was simple but sweet. (HC)
Frank + Crystal Wedding
Earlier this fall, we journeyed southwards to our nation’s capital for Frank and Crystal’s wedding. Their wedding month, September, is perhaps one of our favorite wedding months for the simple fact that the weather is spectacular on the East Coast. The plant life retains their beautiful colors, and the daytime sunshinyness certainly compliments the evening chill.
Frank and Crystal made sure to set aside some time before the ceremony to get a ‘first glance’ of their spouses-to-be. If you haven’t heard of this, it’s a really special moment that some couples decide to incorporate in their wedding day. It’s a time when both escape from chaos that is often found the morning of a wedding day, and spend a few intimate moments together just soaking in the day as a couple. As photographers, it’s also one of the few times we have noticed couples cherish the wedding day, together, while also having a breather.
Frank and Crystal were sure to set aside ample time for bridal party photos. We spent the next 3 hours limo-ing around Washington D.C. for some great scenery. Included in our stops were the Netherlands Carillon, Kalorama Spanish Steps, and the area in front of the U.S. Capitol.
Having gotten to know Frank and Crystal a little bit better after the few hours we spent doing their engagement session, we knew right away their goofy, comical side would be intertwined in their wedding day. It came as a little surprise when we were given a “heads up” to a particular part in their ceremony. After the officiant asked who gives this woman to this man, Crystal’s parents responded “we do.” Immediately after, Frank’s parents popped up from their seats and announced in harmony, “We do, too!” Good humor runs in the family.
Everyone celebrated the night away at the beautiful Key Bridge Marriot. We essentially had an entire floor to ourselves—tantalizing food, great music, and a whole lot of celebrating. One of our favorite moments from the night included the duet speech by the Fathers—yes, they took turns speaking lines that not only rhymed, but were momentous and quite hilarious as well.
Salon: Beautiful Life Salon (311 North Washington Street, Rockville, MD 20850-1705)
Ceremony Location: Key Bridge Marriott
Chadwick + Brooke’s Wedding
You may recall a few weeks back, the teasers of Chadwick and Brooke’s wedding in Minnesota. Here is the full post of the awesome wedding I (Howie) had the privilege of shooting. It was definitely one of the most memorable ones, as I was able to witness my college roomate tie the knot with the girl of his dreams.
The ceremony took place at Wilmar Evangelical Free Chuch in Wilmar, MN with the reception at the bride’s parents backyard under the gorgeous afternoon sun. The weather was perfect!
Below are just a few of my favorite moments of the wedding. From the bride and grooms first look at each other to the beautiful handmade bridesmaid dresses to the elegant backyard wedding and dancing throughout the night, it was one for the books! The fun personality of the couple, the uniqueness of the their wedding and attention to details can definitely be seen in the wedding. (Loved the sparklers at the end!).
Congratulations again! Thanks for letting me take part in your wedding day! And Brooke- you’ll have just as great a time as I did as his roommate! HC