The sky was cloudy, with a little breeze flowing, while Elise stood there in the courtyard of Venue 1902 on her wedding day.  She stood there waiting for Danielle to arrive.  Danielle was being led by me towards her bride, eyes shut.  Then they stood there, back to back, eyes shut, holding hands.  You could see a little shiver in their hands as they waited, nervously, to see each other for the first time in their dresses, on their wedding day.

Danielle and Elise turned around.  They looked straight in to each other’s eyes. In that moment, no one else existed.  Nothing else mattered.  Its as if time stood still.   In the silence of those few seconds, you can just feel the love.  A love that they’ve waited a lifetime for.  A love that they have found in each other.

Their forever was about to start and they knew it.

After the first look, Danielle and Elise exchanged personal vows.  I was capturing the entire thing but could not hear what was being said.   Yet, I could just feel the gravity of the promises that were being made.  The commitment they were making to each other was not one that was entered into lightly.  Danielle and Elise knew this. That is what made these vows so so special.   *insert tears* (I got emotional looking at the photos!!)

Y’all!!!!  This has GOT to be the BEST first look I have everrrrr had the honor of capturing.  Ohhh emmmm geee!   I try to put it in to words but, you just had to be there.  It was just soooo sooo special!!!

The day was full of so many personal touches!

On Danielle’s bouquet, she carried her grandmother’s engagement ring.  Elise’s bouquet had a broach that belonged to her grandmom.  It was the last gift her grandpa gave his love before he passed away.  Also, Elise was gifted a handkerchief that was specially embroidered with her Nana’s handwriting.  Plus, each table at the reception had a quote from their favorite books.  There was a table honoring all those who were present in spirit.  And, did I mention their invitations were eco friendly?? (yes, for going green!)  A tree was planted when Elise and Danielle put in their order!

Anddddd we cannot forget the wedding ceremony happening in the most beautiful room at Venue 1902!!!

Andy, Elise’s father officiated and, let me tell you, he was amazing.  This was no generic ceremony.  Every part of it was filled with something meaningful and personal.  From quotes of Elise’s favorite books, to his prayer as Elise left to Florida, and even to the vows Andy himself said on their wedding day; there was no part that was NOT memorable!

“I of course prayed for her safety but also…. that she would meet someone special to share her life with…”

“My bounty is as boundless as the sea, My love as deep; the more I give to thee, the more I have, for both are infinite.” -William Shakespeare; Romeo and Juliet

“So come sweet Love, Pray live your life with me, Smile upon these words.  Come and walk with me. Join me now, today forever more, Come with me to live, TO be Alone Nevermore” -Andy Limper, 1982

Danielle and Elise, I cannot thank you enough for letting me be a part of the most perfect day!  There is no denying your love for each other– it was 100000% evident on your wedding day that you were made for each other.  I melt just seeing the way you look at each other, the way you smile when you kiss, the sweet remarks you exchange while walking– you two are serious #couplesgoals!  I know you are in London, so if you’re reading this while on your honeymoon, I hope it allows you to relive this day all over again while holding each other in your arms!

 

Creative Team:

Photography: Lanh with L Balagtas Photography

Second Shooter: Mackenzie

Dress Boutique: The Dressing Room Celebration

Dress Designer  Elise’s Dress: Justin Alexander | Danielle’s Dress: Maggie Sottero

Florist The Flower Studio Altamonte

Ceremony Venue & Day of Coordinator Venue 1902 | Katie

Cake: Sprinkles Custom Cakes

Catering:Premier Event Services

Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie 

Invitations: Paper Culture 

Hair and Make up: Fairytale Hair and Makeup

DJ: Access DJs – Rob

 

For more weddings from me, please see:

Daytona & Brannon Civic Center Wedding

Downtown St. Petersburg Wedding

Gold and Red Hindu Wedding

Ready to start planning your wedding?  Email me at LBalagtasPhotography@gmail.com

or visit my: Contact Lanh