Vanessa & Jeffrey | July 7th, 2018

From the start, we knew these two would be a DREAM. So friendly, kind, joyful and soooooooo in love. I could tell from the get-go that these two would make it – the commitment, depth of respect and appreciation for the other was palpable.

*Photos by: Rachael Schirano Photography

 

– The Couple –

VANESSA

A sweetheart through + through. Thoughtful, gentle, and just straight GORGEOUS!

(She literally was asking about how my wedding planning was going on her wedding day… (*cue Chandler Bing’s voice* could you be any more thoughtful?) She was radiant with joy and cried such happy tears. I was smiling all day because she was smiling all day <3

 

JEFFREY

A true gentleman, musically gifted, suave, with a soft spot for his bride.

Jeffrey tried hard to stay composed while reading his note to Vanessa, but just couldn’t contain those heartfelt, overwhelming emotions. I seriously got choked up behind the camera just being a witness –

 

 

– The Film –

 

– The Details –

The details of this day had the couple’s touch on everything – from the gifts, to the flowers, to the center pieces and cake topper – it was a clear depiction of these two and their personalities.

 

 

– The Moments –

It really took everything in me to hold back tears for the special moments of this day. These two were each other’s world and their powerful tie was undeniably evident. The first look was incredibly moving, sentimental and intimate. While they swapped vows, it was like the world stopped and they were fully content soaking up the presence of their other half.

 

The warmth of the day reflected the warm, welcoming presence of these two and the friends/family that surrounded them. The day was filled with this kind of electric tranquility… (if that makes any sense…) Everyone was eager to take part in watching this love story unfold before their eyes, but the scenery offered this quiet stillness that seemed to stretch every precious minute of the day.

 

– THE CEREMONY –

 

 

The Pavilion at Orchard Ridge offered some breath-taking backdrops during the ceremony. Guests were comfortably shaded, and were cooled by a summer breeze – it was truly like walking into a dream. Vanessa and her dad emerged out of an aisle of trees and walked towards one beaming groom. They exchanged vows, rings, a kiss – and were announced as Mr. & Mrs. Carlson.

 

 

 

– The Reception –

Guests were swooped away on golf carts back to the pavilion to enjoy cocktail hour and the reception. I mean… just look at this venue…

The same love-packed, joyous energy from the ceremony poured over into the reception as guests mingled, glasses clinked, and happy tears fell watching those first dances. The floor opened up and man.. this crew had some sweet dance moves. Not only that, but the DJ’s had a freaking confetti canon… I repeat… a CONFETTI CANON!! Confetti exploded onto the dance floor right when the beat dropped and it was like New Year’s Eve in July.

 

 

– The Goodbye –

The night wrapped up as the sun set, so we stole the couple away for some last minute golden hour portraits. Once again we were reminded of their authentic love for each other as they swayed together and pulled each other close. It was like the photographers and I weren’t even there.

 

We said our goodbyes, hugged, and packed up; praising the Lord for love stories like this one. And trust me, I could not wait to get back and watch their footage. Everything was picture perfect and we were just honored to play a role.

Cheers to Vanessa + Jeffrey and all of the wonderful people who made this idyllic, summer wedding come to life. Wishing these two nothing but the best!

 

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VENDORS

The people who helped make this wedding INCREDIBLE!