Long awaited at Longfellow's...

Well, let me clarify that. Beth and Matt were high school sweethearts, so for them, this wedding HAS been long awaited. But on that crisp September evening, it certainly didn't take long to see that they were STILL sweethearts. People always ask what it's like to photograph so many weddings, and to be doing them every weekend. Isn't it boring? Isn't it stressful? And I always answer them the same way - it all depends on the bride and groom. If they are great people, and they are in love, the experience is ALWAYS GREAT. Well, I won't keep you in suspense, Beth and Matt were GREAT. Sometimes I have to take a moment to realize that, though I work at weddings every weekend, I am being paid to not only do what I love (be a photographer) but to do it for a couple in love themselves. It's really an amazing situation to find yourself in. Look at the sun streaking through that photo of them kissing!! And to think we were worried about weather all day long, only to have the sun pop right out of the clouds when her father walked her down the aisle. Way to go Longfellow's! I think Rebekah and the staff there arranged specifically for it. And again, kudos to the staff at Longfellow's. As always, they really go out of their way to keep the bride and groom happy, keep everything running smoothly, and serve great food. Congratulations to the newlyweds!! I hope married life is treating you well!

Canfield Casino

It was just last weekend that Rosie and I spent the day with Ryan and Sarah. No more rain, we were in the midst of the most beautiful weather we've had all summer. Ryan and Sarah were a breath of fresh air, the definition of a relaxed, happy, and loving couple. The Canfield Casino always has a way of making me stop and remind myself how much I love my job. From sneaking outside for pictures at dusk, to the first announcement of the bridal party through those grand doors with the chandeliers glowing in the background, you couldn't ask for a classier reception location. Classe Catering really outdid themselves on this one as well. I found myself photographing the food during dinner instead of eating. The spiced apple and pumpkin soup served in a half pumpkin bowl did me in. Greg Frasier from Frasier Entertainment provided the background music and was a true pleasure to work with. I've heard so much about him, and he lived up to all of the expectations. Shannon Whitney from Wedding Planning Plus also helped to coordinate the day with her play by play keeping everyone on schedule. Unlike many wedding coordinators, Shannon was so relaxed and pleasant, it rubbed off on Ryan and Sarah, from the time I started photographing until I packed up to go home, they were grinning from ear to ear. Well done Shannon! After all was said and done, Ryan and Sarah remind me of how special marriage can be, and how wonderful the day really is. Take it from a married guy... best day of my life! Maybe that's why I chose to photograph weddings every weekend.