Staci & Ben | Chippewa Lake Wedding

June 13, 2013

Staci and Ben met over coffee, except they weren't sitting at the same table. Staci worked behind the counter and Ben frequented the local shop. At first he wasn't too excited that one of his friends was leaving and would be replaced by a new barista, but soon Ben was bringing Staci books he wanted to share and Staci was learning exactly how he took his coffee.

"Staci supports me in pursuing my passions and makes me want to be a better person every day," Ben said.

Just from getting to know these two over a short period of time, I know they have lots of passions. I love the way these two live their lives. From their obvious affection for each other and their beloved dogs to choosing to take a road trip honeymoon instead of the typical beach vacation, they keep life interesting. I like that, and it inspires me to live my life with open arms too.

Staci and Ben, you two deserve all the best. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your day!

Rachel from Blue Envelope Boutique did such a great job on their non-traditional invitations!

Gorgeous, gorgeous, Staci!

While I stayed with the girls, my friend Brittany hung out with the guys ... and these furry guys. :)

Staci has a really close relationship with her family and did a first look with her dad and brother. So sweet!

The day started out sunny and clear, but as we neared ceremony time, the clouds darkened ...

And then the rain came five minutes before the outdoor ceremony was to start! It's good luck, right? :) Luckily, it cleared up not long after it started.

Thank you, Brittany, for that picture up there on the left! Love it. :)

We got to squeeze in a couple more portraits at dusk. It was totally worth it!

Love this photo of Ben and his grandma. :)

To see more from Staci and Ben's lake wedding, click here to view a SLIDESHOW or watch it here:

Ceremony/Reception: The Oaks Lakeside Florist: Terri Witkosky Hair Stylist: Sandi's Hair Studio II DJ: On the Mic Entertainment Paper Goods: Blue Envelope Boutique Bride's Dress: Justin Alexander Bride's Shoes: Liz Claiborne Bridesmaids' Dresses: CoralieBeatrix Suit: JhaneBarnes Honeymoon: Road trip to the Grand Canyon!

Staci & Ben | Chippewa Lake Wedding Sneak Peek

June 4, 2013

This past weekend, I had my very first double header. Whew. I came out on the other end just a little bit sore, which I consider a huge win! Staci and Ben's non-traditional outdoor wedding at Chippewa Lake was quite the adventure. It rained RIGHT (and I mean right) before the ceremony was to begin, but they took everything in stride and waited it out. Sure enough, the rain stopped long enough for them to get married and take some family pictures. :) I loved that these two stayed focused on what really mattered that day ... getting married ... and not the untimely weather. I get to work with the most fantastic people!

For now, here's a few from their beautiful day. Stay tuned this afternoon when Taja and Husain's wedding peek goes live!

Brittany & Ryan | Anthropologie-Inspired Cleveland Wedding

March 21, 2013

Brittany is one of the kindest people I know. For real. She was one of the first photographers I really got to know in Cleveland, and I was so grateful to her for responding to my message and saying she was up for getting coffee! She is just so, so sweet and after all that I heard about Ryan, I was really excited to meet him! I have to say, he fits Brittany perfectly—very warm and friendly and understanding of two photographers who were ready to take lots of pictures. :)

A few months ago, these two decided they were ready to get married. They planned a small, intimate ceremony along the edge of the Metropark in Bay Village. The Fuller House is one of my favorite spots for a Cleveland wedding (remember Elizabeth and Kevin's?), so even though it was FREEZING outside, I was excited to shoot there again.

I must say, this wedding is proof that you don't need to spend a million dollars and two years planning the perfect celebration. I love that Brittany and Ryan kept it 100% focused on the marriage and what it means for them ... that is really, after all, the most important part of a wedding. And this was one of the most sincere and heartfelt weddings I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing.

It was truly an honor to be asked to photograph your wedding, you two. Thank you for reminding me that a wedding is not about collecting stuff; it's about the vows and the promise and the bond. You guys are so great. I can't wait to hang out as married couples. :)

Brittany and Ryan had a small family get together at their house before their ceremony. Brittany is definitely an artist. Look at that presentation! :)