Let me just begin by saying that I adore this couple.

Adore. Them.

Brittany and Jason met in Australia while Brit was on vacation.  After a long distance relationship, she moved to the other side of the world and they were married.  Due to the distance however, their family and friends in Ohio couldn't join the party.  So they decided to have a second wedding here in the fall.  We did all our planning long distance, but the moment we met in person, I knew we were going to have an incredible time!  They offered to buy me Starbucks, they told me " we just want you to be creative!" and they had a fondue reception.

Let me repeat that.

They had a fondue reception.  

Seriously, people.  It can't get better than that!  Besides the fondue, as a photographer and artist, it is so freeing to have clients who trust me and the creative process.  While there were certainly some "must have" shots that they wanted from the day, Brittany and Jason were more concerned with the little moments that would tell the story of their day.  And they trusted me to make that happen for them.  As an artist, that was incredibly inspiring and motivating!

The day began at Brittany's mom's house as the bridesmaids had their hair and make-up done... and perhaps sang a few Whitney Houston songs.  Loudly.  And with hairbrush microphones.  And perhaps a little drama.  But just a little.

Despite the thunder and drizzle, we found an amazing spot for pictures right across the street.  The fall colors and lush green lawn were perfect backdrops for the girls dresses!  I loved how beautifully all their dresses coordinated!  While they intentionally weren't the same style, the colors blended together beautifully!  I loved all the varying hues of champagne and blush!

While the ladies were getting ready at home, Jason and his guys were getting themselves ready at the church.  Brittany's grandfather had a room dedicated to his memory, and that's exactly where the guys were taken to get ready!  I love the little hug between Jason and his mom.... can't you just feel that moment?!

One of the things I loved about their wedding was their family.  Everyone seemed to be involved in some way!  Brittany's sister and brother in law played music during the reception.  Her cousins did readings during the ceremony.  And they ALL had a great time together at the reception.... you'll see that for yourself!

When we arrived at the Patterson House for their reception, we spent a few minutes taking photographs on the grounds.  Brittany, Jason and their bridal party were such willing (and photogenic) models!  At one point I laid down on the ground to get a picture of the bridal party jumping in mid-air.  

Well.... I got the shot... but had also inadvertently laid down in a pile of dog poop.  Yes.  You read that correctly.  Just take a moment to imagine my reaction.  Yup.  Awe.some.  Thankful that my assistant Kimmy was there to help me clean-up the mess and that Brittany and Jason were willing to laugh it off with us!

Once all the formal and group shots were done, I spent a few minutes just focusing on Brittany and Jason.  I loved the way they looked at each other.  You could see in their eyes that they simply adored each other!  All those little tender moments just took my breath away....

After entering the reception in style, the bridal party took their seats for the food and festivities!  We heard a personal toast from Heather and Jason's brother translated several Aussie phrases for the crowd.  Oh how I wish I could remember some of them now - EVERYONE was laughing!

Do you remember me mentioning their family?  Here they are.  Almost all of them.  While it took a VERY helpful DJ, a microphone, and me standing on a chair to make this group shot happen, I think it's fair to say they were all happy to be part of the fun!

Before the night dissolved into dancing, we enjoyed the cake cutting and the couple's first dance.  Can I just take a moment to tell you about their cake?  Because it was amazing.  Ah.ma.zing.  I'm not exactly sure what was...  but there was some sort of maple syrup or maple drizzle or something else yummy..... and it's possible I smuggled a piece home for my kids!  It was that good.  

Seriously.  You should have a maple syrup wedding cake too.  Everyone will love you.

After the main events were finished, their wedding guests hit the dance floor and spent the rest of the night having a great time together!  There was at least one conga line, a pair of split pants, and lots of laughter through it all!

Brittany and Jason, thank you SO MUCH for allowing me to be a part of your special day!  While I'm heartbroken that you live so far away, I count myself blessed to be able to call you both friends!  I wish you so many blessings in the years to come and I cannot wait to see you when you come home!

xoxo....