dogs

Mount Airy Farm /  by Lacey R Butler

The venue’s reflecting pond is often still and perfectly glassy, but we had a nice breeze that day, keeping everything the perfect temperature. Frankly, this year has been high on the alt-weather and I am sure I speak for everyone when I say I’m just grateful it was dry! What a stunning day,!

We (Videographer, one of Rachael’s cousins and myself, maybe the groom too?!) gasped when her dress did this amazing swoop, perfect for a twirl. What a charming bride!

The goodboy himself, making sure all is right in their world. <3

The couple met… at a park, for real. Rachael’s dog truly was a ring bearer, paving the way to a conversation that led to romance.. and now he is a family VIP for sure.

The bride brushing tears away at the private first look, pre ceremony. A joy to witness their mutual bliss!

STUNNING.

The flowers were done by an amazing team.. I will add the name here when I get it. And the Videographer was pretty easy to work with, something that cannot be said for all (and yes I know they say it about photographers, we do the same thing in a way and want the same space and it’s a challenge sometimes. A relief to work with a videographer that was patient and let me lead and then I let him do what he needed to and politely didn’t use my flash so he could not freak out about the light ruingin his shots.

This wedding absolutely blew me away. For one thing, as it’s at an AirBnb, and small key elopement, I expected… what I’ve seen before which is a very quiet large dinner part type thing where I almost feel like a guest myself, chatting, mingling and taking photos of guests. This was not. This was a full fledged miicro-wedding with friends and loved ones. I think the nearest of the dearest, for sure, those that they know will always be in their corner, supporting them. The idea that so much love and support are available to them within their own families is amazing to me.

VENDORS:

PHOTOGRAPHY: Lacey Renae Photography

Videography: Weddings by LDF (Matthew)

STRING QUARTET: Stephanie Quinn Music

CATERING: Cracker Jack Chef

CAKE: Kristie Van Winkle

FLORISTS: Kristie Van Winkle, Emily Creel and Anna Vermuth

VENUE: Mount Airy Farm

Thank you to the newlyweds, the vendors and their guests for what became one of my most favorite weddings to date. I can’t wait to see and hear about them more.. and now I go back to the editing!

<3 Best wishes!

Proposal at Sunset /  by Lacey R Butler

This amazing couple! I am so behind in sharing my work but guess who is getting married this weekend and I get to be their photographer?! Yep. These two!

Not only does this image have sincere emotion in the moment, but check out that sky! When you see alternate weather, keep in mind that bright light can be harsh on humans and washes everything out! And also the sky holds TEXTURE with clouds. I’m about it.

Rachael was given a bouquet AND an amazing ring!!

Personally love this. Do you? It’s a dream….

happy dog is going to be at the wedding too! I’m so excited to work with another amazing puppers!

Vineyards at Bettys Creek /  by Lacey R Butler

First look! Romantic, voyeuristic of me maybe, but definitely romantic.

I have never loved an indoor venue as much as I do every single outdoor wedding spot. Nature is where it’s at.

On location at the Vineyards at Betty’s Creek. This wedding was all about the SPRING green and white!

This Vineyard is HUGE. It’s also quite steep, as you can see in a few pictures. I did a TON of walking and worked out my calves and thighs but only because I wasn’t willing to wait for golf carts all day- but let me tell you the staff at this venue is on point. There seemed to be 3 carts driving around the property to transport well-clad guests all day long. They were super helpful and even showed up at the vendor parking lot when I parked!

The groom was patiently waiting for his bride for the first look- in the distance you can see a house that is sometimes used for various things on the property, like getting ready, or smaller receptions.

be prepared for rustic, natural and outdoorsy details all over!

Fun fact. The loose petals were MIA so the flower fairy man, who took his job very seriously, filled his fanny pack with petals he stole off the many dogwood trees on the property.

The couple hung crystals from the trees above the ceremony space.

Including this so people looking for venues get an overall feel for what the land looks like. This is as viewed from the reception building.

Get a woman who looks at you like this… <3

Their dog <3 oh my gosh! Loved his people!! And I may have a hidden talent for getting puppers attention.

Many thanks for Sean Szitas having me out to second shoot with him- always a pleasure! I’d very much love to work this venue again, so if you’re considering it, or any similar venue, please reach out! Best wishes to the beautiful couple!