I’ve been excited to post the highlights of this beautiful wedding for a while and although I would have liked to consolidate this a little I just couldn’t help but share all my favorites (be warned, future blog posts in 2012 will be consolidated -it is a goal!) However, I am holding back a few awesome shots of the venue itself so that Kristi can use them in her upcoming “favorite wedding venues” post (yeah, we are adding Bella Collina to the list for sure.) If you haven’t chosen a wedding venue you should look at this one, if you are already married you should do it again at Bella Collina. Amen.
I can’t believe it was almost a year ago that I shot Ryan and Andrea’s engagement session. I love how over the course of that time I have been able to get to know them so well. Ryan and Andrea were introduced to each other through friends. He is in the Air Force and she’s finishing school. They love the outdoors, fishing, hunting, you name it. He’s from Alabama and she’s from Boston and New Orleans and of course Florida too. It looks like their life together will most likely include some travel with the Air Force but for now they hope to stay put for a few years. I call this a “Dream Wedding” because Bella Collina (located in Orlando, Florida) offers the feel of a castle –in Italy, on a vineyard. Sure it is actually in Florida on a golf course but there are hills and some grapes growing there and the location is to die for so why even bother splitting hairs? I totally love these guys, they are sweet both to each other and to whoever is around them. They have been a joy to work with and such a pleasure to get to know as friends. They’ve trusted me with my piece of their beautiful wedding and allowed me to have creative freedom. That’s about as good as it gets for a photographer right? I’ll comment here and there throughout the highlights but be sure to get to the bottom for a vendor list!
I know I’m not in chronological order here but had to show this one first, one of my favorite images from the day that showcases how sweet these guys are as well as the beautiful property surrounding them.
Andrea had her hair and makeup done at Essentials Spa in Viera. The bridesmaids had the same treatment and enjoyed mimosas while they watched Andrea finishing up. It happens to be one of my favorite places too!
Guys if this isn’t the coolest pre wedding man cave ever I don’t know what is…
How sweet is this engraved compact? “To my dear friend, may you always see yourself as I see you.”
Andrea’s dress was unique and perfect for her, love the lace. Just a note here to mention that the prettier the area you can get dressed in the better the photographs!
Gorge right? And I loved her Swarovski crystal earrings.
Andrea and Ryan have a beautiful classic style.
There were about 10 shots in this sequence of the bridesmaids laughing. Seriously, we were having a great time.
Think you left Florida? Nope you’re still here.
This is the only venue shot I’m sharing for now… saving the rest for later!
Okay so I have a sweet spot for dad’s. This one is so cute. And so sweet. He is waiting here to see Andrea before he walks her down the isle.
Have I mentioned yet how much I love a groom in uniform? mmmm love it. Definitely adds to the knight on a white horse wedding at the castle element. Or something like that.
You get smacked on the butt with a sword when you marry someone in the military. Just something to consider when they pop the question.
I let Ryan and Andrea steal a moment away right after the ceremony. And sort of gave them privacy.
I think it was just a few seconds before I shot this photo of the grapes that I said something like “There probably aren’t actual grapes growing here right?”
another fave.
Andrea you are so beautiful. Even if you think your smile is too big – keep smiling, the rest of us love it.
They didn’t even know I was shooting here, they just always look this cute walking together. Seriously!
Everyone had a great time at the reception thanks to one of my favorite DJ’s, DJ Shane Entertainment. Don’t even get me started on my soap box about choice of DJ. These guys (or ladies) will run your reception – not just play music! Choose someone who can offer you lighting, professionalism and most of all experience!
Love these guys.
Super successful sparkler exit thanks to the large sparklers! After the wedding, Andrea and Ryan enjoyed a beautiful European honeymoon. Last week, they came into the studio for their “Opening Night.” I love to offer this to any of my local couples so that they can see their images for the first time in a special way, on the big screen, with friends and family – of course wine and chocolate too.
Big Congratulations Ryan and Andrea!
Vendor List:
Awesome Wedding Venue and catering: Bella Collina
Cake: Party Flavors Custom Cakes Orlando