Before I begin I think is important to say that I am one of those blessed photographers. I have incredible couples who trust me and believe in my vision to tell their story. But, what is sometimes even more impressive to me is that more than 90% of all my couples book me before they even meet me for the first time face to face.

They see my work online, we exchange a few emails and a phone call or two… then, BAM! They book me. That has always blown my mind in hindsight.  Maria’s wedding was on my birthday this year. I have a rule for not shooting weddings on birthdays, unless of course there is a reason to make an exception, which has to be approved by my wife :) It was easy to accept Maria and Ryan’s wedding. We had a brief first conversation on the phone and it was like talking to an old friend who was getting married and wanted you to photograph her wedding.

I always set up at least one coffee or lunch date before the wedding to meet my couples and to get to know them. I believe this is the best time to meet, once there is no more business talk needed. I met Maria and Ryan at one of my favorite coffee shops. Maria was as lovely as I imagined her to be and Ryan was a super dapper and handsome guy whose sweetness and kindheartedness showed right through. We chatted and made plans for the big day.

Their wedding was a very intimate and private gathering of their closest family and friends. There were many attendees who flew from England and up North where Ryan and Maria live. Bella Collina was perfect their sophisticated and classic taste. Maria is a big fan of the 1920’s style of fashion and glamour. She shared with me so many incredible illustrations and photographers from the Art Deco era  she used as inspiration for her wedding decor. Everything was minimal, gorgeous and timeless. Her wedding gown was as stunning as a Jenny Packham gown. Packham might just be my new favorite designer. Everything from her wedding gown to the gorgeous Art Deco decorated cake was just a perfect backdrop to their perfect day.

I am sure if you know me as a photographer you must be wondering why I am talking about all these  wedding details and designers. I love wedding details. I also photograph them a lot but share them very minimally.  I believe that details alone do not make a wedding. It’s never about the things; its always about the people.

I love people. I love photographing them. I love their emotions and their vulnerabilities. Their connections with others and their need for love.   Weddings are just a perfect canvas for this, one of the most incredible human spectacles. So, it was not the extremely stylish bride and groom that I loved the most but it was them. Who they are? They are kind, humble and caring.   It’s easy to see why they are loved so much by many.

Their wedding day was easy going and went so smoothly. Alison from Blush made sure that everything was perfect for them. She even moved the wedding ceremony location from the Atrium to the Lawn on a very short notice. It was beautiful and sunny. It made sense to have the ceremony under the sun. It over looks the gorgeous and very rare hills found only in Montverde, Florida. It also faces the gorgeous Bella Collina Club house.
   
I was so impressed by Alison for doing this. She was incredible to work with.
Overall, it really was a memorable day. The bride and bride looked gorgeous.  They had plenty of time to enjoy their day. To laugh, cry, and dance. It was a perfect way to spend my birthday.  I even got a shout out from the bride during her speech, thanking me and wishing me a happy birthday.

I hope you enjoy this collection of my favorite images from their day. Feel free to tell us what you think and wish the couple love and prosperity.

XOXOX
GC

Venue & Chairs: Bella Collina
Wedding Coordinator: Blush
Make up Artist: Alaina D Artistry
Hair Stylist: Autumn Chia
Wedding Gown: Calvet Couture
Gown Designer: Jenny Packham
Florist: Lee Forest Design
Linens: GBS Linens
Lighting: Get Lit Productions
Cake and sweets: Party Flavors Custom Cakes
Ceremony Musicians: Classern String Quartet
DJ: JC Productions