I’m already itching to go back and relive Emily and Joe’s colorful, candid wedding day from this past weekend! These two cuties are such a joy to be around and really brought so much intentionality and care to their wedding day!
The day started with the two of them getting ready together at their home. Hair and make up was just finishing up when I arrived to start on the flat lay photos. As Emily was getting dolled up, Joe was upstairs laying down getting a bit of rest before the hustle of the day really began. (Can I just say, more naps on wedding days please!)
All of the colorful wedding details for this day held a deeper meaning.
The pieces of jewelry Emily wore were heirloom pieces, so they were passed down from family members. The boutonniere that Joe wore was comprised entirely of found materials acquired during their travels together! I really loved seeing how much attention to detail was put into every decision.
After getting dressed together and before heading out, it was time for a few portraits with their 3 cats Helen, Doug, and Lenny. I thought it was so cute that all of her kitties have one eye, because Emily didn’t want anyone feeling different or left out! (Adopted that way, nothing nefarious!)
We headed over to the quiet picnic grounds where the ceremony and reception would be taking place. As we got there, various family and friends were mingling, and finalizing little details. Once everyone was situated, we headed over to a quiet little nook on the grounds and the ceremony began.
Emily and Joe chose to self unionize their marriage, so the quick ceremony consisted of a beautiful and personal vow reading, a ring exchange, and a quick kiss! It was informal and intimate in the best way possible. We immediately followed with some family portraits and a few newlywed portraits before additional guest began arriving for the reception!
The vibe that Emily and Joe had in mind for their reception was casual, candid, and FUN! Safe to say they absolutely nailed it!
After mingling for a bit, the reception formalities kicked off back to back so the rest of the evening could be dedicated to spending time with their loved ones and being able to relax.
After a first dance together, and a dance with Emily’s dad and Joe’s mom, the time came for speeches. Jan, Emily’s father, gave one of the most beautiful speeches I have ever heard. There was not a single dry eye to be found as he eloquently spoke about the sudden and unexpected passing of Emily’s mother Marty just a few short years ago. Celebratory days can be so difficult when a loved one who should be there isn’t, but her memory was present and felt by every single person there. After Jan’s speech, a dance was dedicated to Marty’s memory and everyone took to the floor to celebrate.
Now all formalities were finished, so it was time to unwind and relax! Emily and Joe mingled with their guests and were able to give individualized attention to each guest. There were lawn games, lots of delicious snacks and drinks, and even a piñata that Joe made himself! (A little too well, that thing was quite a challenge for the kids to get into and kept them busy for a while!)
As dusk was nearing, we headed away from the reception area to a beautiful open field for some fresh air and a few sunset portraits. It was the perfect way to end the perfect day.
Photographer: @samanthajeanphoto
2nd Photographer: @savannahsmithphoto
Florist: @rhapsody.in.bloom
Hair/MUA: @wearetheprettycollective
Venue: Picnic Grounds in Mechanicsburg, PA.
Invitations: @minted
Catering and Desserts: @heidy_weirich_and_co
Wedding Gown: @eshakti
Suit: @bonobos
Signature Signage: @haldeman.haus
Looking for a photographer for your own colorful wedding? Get in touch!
omg this entire set, and their beautiful wedding day, is incredibly stunning!!!!!!