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▣ August 2012
August. This time last year I was gearing up and counting down for our Sept. 4th wedding date, trying to unpack boxes and paint rooms in a new house, organize our trip out west, and still shoot 2 weddings a week. This year - I've got even more work, but only one To Do list instead of 7! Things are rolling along at a steady pace and every once in a while I have a few minutes to stop and enjoy the view. We've been moved in for 13 months now and I just hung my first photo on the wall this week - and it's not even a photo - but a painting of a grove of aspen trees. The backyard..and the frontyard are still a jungle - I'm sure our neighbors suspect us of being hoarders. Oddly, nothing could be farther from the truth - we have 2 wobbly kitchen chairs, a couch in the living room, my desk in my office, our bedroom set, and that's it. There's no other furniture in the whole house! One room has an inflatable mattress and other rooms are just totally empty. I've been told there is a time for projects like this and that time is called "winter" or the off season ;)
Today I bring you an evening shot of the barn at Lingrow Farm from Stephanie and Ryan's wedding last year.
If you're looking for something to do this weekend - come visit me in Harrison City at Bushy Run Battlefield for the 249th anniversary reenactment of the Battle of Bushy Run. It's a fantastic event with lots to see and learn, food, crafts, living history at its finest. Say hello if you see me - I'll be the one wearing war paint and carrying a camera ;)
Comments added to this post ▣ Jackie & Andy | Lingrow Farm Engagement Photos
Today I'm bringing you a few snapshots from Jackie and Andy's engagment session last week at Lingrow Farm. Originally hoping for snow for their session, we made the best we could of the chilly february landscape.
Looking forward to their fall wedding this October! Comments added to this post ▣ Featured! on Intimate Weddings Blog
I'm pleased and proud to announce that one of my photos has been featured on Intimate Weddings Blog as part of a piece on lodge theme weddings! The original image is from Donna and Mike's fall wedding in 2009 at rustic Lingrow Farm. Check it out here: Intimate Weddings Blog - Lodge Weddings
Click here to see the original post from Donna and Mike's wedding !
Comments added to this post ▣ Christa + Zach | Peacock themed wedding
This is a really great wedding that I'm sad to say never got blogged from last year. Sitting here reliving it through the photos has been awesome! I loved the colors of this wedding from the start. Christa and Zach chose a peacock theme, and then followed up that good decision by picking all the best vendors in the area. Result? Grand slam wedding :-D
One of my favorite parts of my job is being there for the moments that make relationships, the emotional ones - happy or sad that bind together the fabric of a family or a friendship. Christa and her girls spent the morning of the wedding getting ready at the salon, her mom and her mother in law darting in and out - giant coffee travel cups in hand and all smiles. This is Zach's mom giving Christa a happy good luck squish as they put the finishing touches on her hair. Linda was thrilled that she was about to gain a new daughter in law.
Mamosas at the salon - wedding morning ritual :-)
One of Christa's bridesmaids checking the skies before they helped her into her dress, the rain was not letting up.
When the moment came, the girls laced Christa up in the fanciest dress she'd ever worn in her life. In a few hours, her new last name would be Beebe. So she wore honey bees on her wedding shoes to celebrate. Top left and right images by Anna.
The guys wore textured grey suits with black and lime green details.
Instead of the outdoor ceremony they had planned, Christa and Zach had to make the best of the bad weather and set up their ceremony indoors under the big chandelier in the middle of the barn. Christa's dad walked her through the open doors of the barn to the sound of a string quartet and falling rain. (The musicians were huddled under the stairs in the now close space among the guests.)
Their ceremony was simple and sweet.
Married among their family and friends in a barn lit softly by white lights while the storm blew outside.
Despite the bad weather, Christa and Zach were determined to take the horse and carriage ride they had planned. Linda (she owns the farm) carried the umbrella and Val (she keeps things running smoothly during weddings) wrapped the couple up in a blanket and they rode away through the rain. When they got back they wanted a photo with the horses - such troopers! - it was really coming down hard!
All of the floral arrangements for the wedding were really fantastic with a wild field picked look and peacock feather details.
We stayed on the porch for family and wedding party photos - they were a FUN group!!
Dj Rockin John getting everyone organized for their announcements into the reception.
Garda's restaurant provided the food including a totally awesome pasta station. Meanwhile Zach waited out the storm in the basement watching football.
At last our patience paid off and the rain stopped just before dark. Christa and Zach were game for anything and happily tromped through the wet grass for some photos in the field. The sky was dark with clouds and the daylight was fading fast. While we were out there, Christa almost walked into a huge grass spider (yellow argiope to be exact) so we took his picture too. Top right and bottom left images by Anna.
Image by Anna.
Some after-dark details of their reception. As a favor, guests received small beehive candles and bear jars of honey with their new married name Beebe on them as well as pillow mints.
This was the scene at the end of the night - everyone on the dancefloor bringing the hammer down to "Dead or Alive" by Bon Jovi (also the theme song to Deadliest Catch). I love it when singing breaks out on the dancefloor ;-)
Christa and Zach just celebrated their first anniversary a few weeks back - I hope the first year was just as amazing as the wedding day!
Ceremony & Reception Location: Lingrow Farm Hair and MakeUp: Fashions A Head Floral Design: Leechburg Floral Cake Designer: Debbie Sutara Catering Services: Garda's Restaurant Entertainment: Dj Rockin John
Comments added to this post ▣ Kari + Andrew | Rustic fall wedding at lingrow farm
In celebration of autumn, Thanksgiving next week, (and deer season), I'm posting Kari and Andrew's wedding from last october! Kari's sister, Laurel, and I went to high school together so I knew their family from way back :-) Being avid hunters and outdoorsy folks, their wedding was a mix of fall colors, tasteful camo, and rustic elements. One my favorite details of their day was that they used feathers in all of their floral arrangements which they designed themselves! Right images by Anna.
Kari's dress was ivory satin with small jewels and she wore fall berries in her hair.
Andrew is a fantastic guy! I'm so happy they found each other!
Kari's dad crafted the wooden tables and pedestals they used throughout the wedding for the cake, centerpieces, and to hold their programs at the back of the aisle.
Instead of the traditional unity candle or sand ceremony, they used a vase and containers of colored glass that each other parents help them pour together.
Very much in love :-)
Each of the bridesmaids wore a different fall shade and carried bouquets wrapped in burlap. Images by Anna.
Kari's sister Laurel on the left - she and I go way back to 7th grade ! Top right image by Anna.
I remember when we shot Kari and Andrew's engagement photos we visited Kari's old tree stand !
If you're as impressed as I was by that gorgeous bling - you should know that Kari works for Kay jewelers and if you're in the market for an enagement ring you need to go see her! She has designed many rings and wedding bands including her sister's and can help you choose the best diamond for you :-)
The new Mr. & Mrs. !
Their cake was unlike anything I've ever seen before! Four deconstructed tiers decorated with oak leaves, acorns, and sugar stenciled with pennsylvania wildlife and animal tracks. Moio's Pastry shop really outdid themselves with this one!
Instead of a traditional guest book, every signed cut sections of trees.
A shot by Anna in the outdoor garden at Lingrow Farm.
After dinner, Kari and Andrew showed a slideshow of photo of their relationship and their engagement session!
Her first dance with her Dad - looking handsome in his camo vest.
Another fun part of the evening was the caricature artist that came and sat on the back porch and sketched for everyone.
Out by the bonfire.
I loved this - not something I see at every wedding - at the end of the night guests were milling around outside and sitting at the tables, getting ready to leave, packing up, etc. But Kari and Andrew seemed not to notice, all alone out on the dance floor enjoying the last notes of their perfect day.
And just for good times sake - SECRET FLAME makes a comeback :-D
Kari and Andrew celebrated their first anniversary last month and are expecting their first baby in the new year! I can't wait to meet him and watch their family grow :-)
Comments added to this post ▣ Amber + Steve | Fall wedding at lingrow farm
We are in the midst of fall and I'm happy to reach back into the never-blogged files and share some of the fantastic fall weddings we shot last year! (I'd blog this years but we're right in the thick of it !)
Amber and Steve were married in late september at Lingrow Farm. This was just a week after Anna's wedding and so while she was on her honeymoon, my good friend and sometimes photo assistant Dana came along to help with the wedding!
The girls had a great time getting ready in the carriage house while the boys hung out at the barn.
Top right and bottom left images by Dana.
Steve and the groomsmen were handsome in their bow ties. Right image by Dana.
Dana caught this great birds eye view of Amber and her father arriving at the ceremony in a horse drawn carriage while guests look on from across the lake.
The weather was sunny and gorgeous as Amber's dad walked his daughter down the aisle.
The shined overhead members of the wedding party did a few readings. (To be honest, I think Steve wasn't paying attention. Too busy grinning ear to ear at his beautiful bride.)
They had a little trouble with the breeze lighting the unity candle and so the members of the wedding party crowded in a huddle to block the wind!
Love this shot that Dana captured during "formals".
So once the boys had lifted Amber for a picture, the girls wanted to lift Steve - but it didn't go as well ... and then the guys hoisted steve one more time and ran with him to the edge of the water...
They stopped just short and then we took a few shots of them with their arms out with no steve. (It made for a great slideshow. I wanted to use it on the blog as an animated gif but my gif generator is on the fritz.)
Image by Dana.
The details of their reception were elegant with a fall twist. From the pumpkin table card holders, to the gold chair sashes, to the chocolate twirls on top of their cake, everything was perfect.
I really loved their centerpieces and they helped inspire me for centerpieces for my own wedding!
First dance.
Amber shared a dance with her mom as well :-)
To make their fall wedding even more perfect, an orange harvest moon rose over the lake that night.
They capped off the evening with a few fireworks provided by friends.
And danced the night away on the old barn floor.
And here's just one shot of Dana from another photo excursion she helped me with !
Comments added to this post ▣ Haley + Derek | Lingrow Farm Wedding
Another great wedding from the never-blogged files! Last last august - Haley and Derek at Lingrow Farm in Leecburg, Pa.
The girls rented the farmhouse and got ready in the upstairs rooms. Anna captured some candid moments of their flower girl having her hair fussed over, all part of getting all dressed up for a wedding!
Haley's mom lacing her into the dress!
Image by Anna.
The skies were beautiful, but the sun was HOT !
The wedding party came down the aisle dressed in red and carrying bouquets of multi colored flowers.
Haley and her father made a grand entrance in Lingrow's signature white carriage. There was an audible gasp from the guests when they caught sight of her rounding the edge of the lake! Bottom left image by Anna.
Haley's dad walked his little girl down the aisle and gave her away to her new husband and best friend, Derek.
The sun blazed overhead as they said their vows. Top right image by Anna.
After dinner we went out exploring the grounds for more photos after the sun cooled off a little!
Love this image Anna captured while I was shooting from another angle.
Haley's dance with her Dad. In case you haven't noticed yet, we thought he looked a lot like a familiar celebrity. Give up?
SAM ELLIOT !! he has the perfect mustache!
Best man and maid of honor performing their wedding duties - the maid of honor giving a funny heartwarming speech about Haley when she was a kid, and the best man ensuring that the dollar dance is a huge success and there are no shots left behind!
So who catches the bouquet at this wedding? She did! You can tell by the look of pure determination that she's not letting those flowers get past her !! Image by Anna :-)
Ceremony & Reception Location: Lingrow Farm
Florist: Leechburg Floral
Catering: Garda's Restaurant
Entertainment: DJ Rockin John
Ceremony officiant: Reverend Larry Goyda of Meaningful Marriages
Comments added to this post ▣ Stephanie + Ryan | just one shot!
Just a sneak peek !!
Stephanie and Ryan's wedding from September 17th! They were so brave marching out into the sunflower patch through the mud in a ball gown, but it was totally worth it !
More coming soon! Comments added to this post ▣ Ashley + Andrew | vintage summer wedding
A quick post to share some details from a vintage theme wedding from last year :-) Ashley and Andrew were married in August 2010 at lingrow farm among family and friends, the hot summer sun, and a killer delicious dinner buffet :-)
Andrew and the guys got ready at the barn. They wore chocolate brown suits with a paisley tie and a pink rose boutonnierre. Andrew wore ivory.
After a quick trip to the salon, Ashley and girls relaxed in the farmhouse. There was a card from Andrew for Ashley to open - inside was a note with a photo of a house. It turns out that Andrew had been able to secretly purchase the house they had been looking at and surprised her with the news the morning of the wedding!
For their thank you cards, they planned ahead to get some photos with a lettered paper parasol!
Left image by Anna.
Left image by Anna.
Ashley's smile was ear to ear as her father walked her down the aisle.
Image by Anna.
Fun with the wedding party!
Out in the field - image by Anna.
This was a wonderful detail. Ashley collected and displayed lots of old family photos on the wall during cocktail hour.
Placecards displayed on a clothesline, mason jar centerpieces, big jugs of ice tea, and the best dinner buffet I've ever seen at a wedding! There was tavern ham, beef, eggplant parmesan, vegetables, pasta, and more!
After dinner, guests cut loose on the dance floor :-D
Instead of a cookie table, they had a candy buffet displayed in glass containers with metal scoops!
They rode off into the sunset (literally!) in Andrew's truck - decorated by the wedding party :-)
Salon Services: Philip Pelusi Salon at Pittsburgh Mills Mall Ceremony & Reception Location: Lingrow Farm Entertainment: DJ Rockin John Flowers: Leechburg Floral Catering: Garda's Restaurant
Comments added to this post ▣ Judi + Josiah | music themed winter wedding
Ice storm scheduled for the eastern seaboard ! Ok - so it's not that exciting. But it does remind me of a day two christmases ago when I met my colleague and friend Sandy Yetter to shoot a wedding at Lingrow Farm. It was a day that was the stuff of legend - eight inches of snow fell in less than 24 hours ! (Incidentally, Snowmageddon 2010 blew this legend out of the water). Judi and Josiah had flown into western Pennsylvania from sunny California and they boarded the hotel shuttle buses for their winter wedding at the farm.
The landscape was quieted under a heavy blanket of snow which made driving difficult, but made for a beautiful and intimate wedding day for everyone who made the trip.
Judi watched the snow falling through the window, her satin wedding gown was stunning !
Her handsome fiance, Josiah, fought back wedding day jitters. (and shivers !)
Before the ceremony, Judi peeked out from the stairwell with anticipation.
Her father snapped a quick memory of his daughter - breathless on her wedding day - before walking her down the aisle. The photo on the right is the indoor ceremony space at Lingrow set up before the guests arrive. In warm weather, the deck is open to the air. Once the nights get cooler, the staff closes up the deck with clear heavy plastic for the winter so that the deck heaters can keep things cozy.
The happy couple stood among their family friends and exchanged their lifelong promises to each other.
During the ceremony they presented gifts to their parents. Their flowers were by Leechburg Floral and I loved the pink heather in her boquet!
After the ceremony, we all braved the FREEZING weather to get a few outside photos in the storm.
We took advantage of the christmas lights - winter weddings really make for unique and excellent photos!
This might be one of my favorite photos from the whole wedding ! The reception aglow inside the barn while we stood in the swirling snow just outside. I love the chance to get creative with the environment.
Here you can see Sandy moving as a blur with her ninja photographer skills !
Warming up by the christmas tree .. !
Their whole wedding had a music theme since they met and did their engagement session in a record store. They used vinyl albums as their centerpieces and guests each recieved their own 45 in a brown paper sleeve as their favor. Judi and Josiah were happy to autograph them for the occaision!
I love photos like this. LOVE. THEM.
Just a parting shot on the stairs, I was at the bottom while Sandy was shooting from the top. To see her angle, make sure you click HERE to see the post on her blog !
Snow is a good thing ;-)
Ceremony & Reception Location: Lingrow Farm
Catering: Addison House
Entertainment: DJ Rockin John
Florals: Leechburg Floral
Comments added to this post ▣ Ann + Bill | 5.21.10
Ann and Bill held one of the nicest spring weddings that I've had the honor to be a part of back in May of this year. From the beginning, I knew they were a couple with a very special bond. There were a lot of emotional moments, but I think if there was an overall feeling - it was joy. And it all started with Ann. She is someone who when you meet her, just radiates joy! She's bubbly and sincere and full of energy - you can't help but be excited with her!
They chose a soft pastel color palette that complimented Ann's breezey Galina wedding gown.
Ann's mom and her sister helped to fasten the back of her dress, while she fought back the jitters. Image by Anna
Ann wore a wreath of flowers in her hair designed by Vicki at Leechburg Floral.
I want to introduce you to Ann's son - he was thrilled to be a part of the wedding and couldn't wait to be part of a new family!
I love this image that Anna caught of the flower girl before the ceremony.
When it was time to venture down the aisle, Ann arrived in a white horse-drawn carriage where she was met by her father. Her Dad walked her halfway down the aisle, then they met up with Ann's son who took her other arm to help walk her the rest of the way.
With a big smile, Ann was escorted by the two most important men in her life towards the man of her dreams.
I have to admit - I held it together until Bill cried. When men cry, I just go to pieces. Bill met them at the end of the aisle with tears in his eyes as Ann's father and her son gave her away. They exchanged emotional vows between fits of laughter.
Three bottles of sand waited on a table, white sand for Ann's son, and yellow and lavendar sand for Ann and Bill to represent their lives blending together as a new family.
Such romance :-) Image by Anna
They ran up the aisle and we whisked away in the carriage for a short ride together around the lake. Image by Anna
This is Geronimo :-) He's such a good horse! Ann even brought him carrots!
Inside the barn, the tables were decorated in soft pastels with a three tier cake covered in flowers. Middle right image by Anna.
This was hilarious, more of Ann and Bill's great sense of humor. When DJ Rockin John announced the new Mr. & Mrs. Long to a thunderous round of applause - nothing happened. He called for them again - no one came up the stairs. Finally, on the third time Ann and Bill playing a funny prank stumbled up the stairs with their clothes in disarray ;-) The crowd roared with laughter and they played it up :-)
When everyone had sat down and the best man and maid of honor had given their toasts, Ann's son stood up and asked for the microphone because he had something to say. Everyone was surprised and sat in silence with tissues in hand as Chris welcomed Bill to their family and told him how much he appreciated Bill taking him camping and teaching him about horses and spending time with him and how he was so happy that they could all be a family now.
I was not the only one who cried that time. Anna got teary, John got a little misty, and most of the guests were wiping away the tears with me. During dinner, Anna and I pulled Ann and Bill outside for some additional photos and some time to relax. They are so in love, they needed no suggestion from me - we just stood back and let me them be themselves.
A happy husband and wife.
I loved the back of Ann's dress with it's delicate embroidered lace.
Looking at these photos from May, I can't believe how green everything was outside. The word that comes to mind is " lush " what a great time of year for a wedding when all of the plants are fresh and new.
A sweet image by Anna, it's very representative of a Lingrow wedding. Guests always enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Later on, Bill kicked it up a notch for their first dance together. Image by Anna
Ann and her new husband on the left, and then later in the evening with her Dad.
At the end of the night, Bill hoisted Ann over his shoulder and proudly carried her out of the reception to more applause and cheers!
Mr. and Mrs. Long have LEFT THE BUILDING :-D
I hope you two are having a great time looking forward to your first christmas as a married couple!
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Lingrow Farm
Floral Design: Leechburg Floral
Entertainment: DJ Rockin John
Catering: Garda's Restaurant Comments added to this post ▣ Christa & Zach - just one shot!
Christa & Zach were married on October 3rd on that very very rainy sunday! They didn't let the rain dampen their spirits though and when it stopped and the clouds parted for just a while, you can bet were out in the field! :-)
Just one shot to tide you over until I have your gallery finished this week :-) It's been crazy busy with weddings this month but I'm steadily getting caught up!
I can't wait to show off their wedding - here's a clue to the fabulousness - if you look carefully you can see there are peacock feathers in her bouquet! Comments added to this post ▣ Donna & Mike | Oct 2009 | married in the rain
It was very cold and rainy last October 17th when Donna and Mike tied the knot at Lingrow Farm. With the weather being seasonably chilly and light drizzle falling, everyone had already rehearsed the indoor plan the night before. The upper deck of the barn at Lingrow is closed in with clear vinyl in the winter months and they have large space heaters that keep guests toasty whether they are there just for dinner or if you choose to host your ceremony on the porch! I had a triple threat dream team with me that day including Anna Laero (now Salyers!) and Sandy Yetter - we were sooo covering the whole day from every possible angle. We found Donna and the ladies in the carriage house and Donna was so excited that she had already put her dress on even before we arrived! She was multitasking with a cell phone in each hand!
We took advantage of a rare moment of no rain to get the girls outside before the ceremony for a few quick shots - they were doing a pretty good job of pretending they weren't cold!
All too soon, the guests had all arrived and it was time to start! Donna's Dad walked her up the stairs and through the double doors while Mike waited for her with a big smile at the end of the aisle.
There was a hysterical moment during the ceremony - everything was going smoothly - guests were snuggled together in their seats, the lighting was soft and warm, the couple recited beautiful vows and made lifelong promises to each other. Everything was going smoothly - and then when Donna and Mike went to present their mother's each with a rose, one of Donna's totally haute high heels got wedged in a crack betweek the floorboards of the barn. And she was stuck. She tried to keep her composure and wiggle it loose, but it wouldn't budge. Mike's Dad, being an excellent new father-in-law, knelt down to help her. Now everyone was watching. After a few minutes of strained effort, even he couldn't get her shoe to come loose. Then Donna broke down into giggles and everyone in the audience joined in with laughter. Mike's Dad unbuckled her shoe so she could step out of it and then he proceeded to pull on the shoe with all of his might. And it still wouldn't move. By now everyone was in hysterics. Finally with a great heave the shoe came loose, and off balance he toppled over nearly backwards. That was it, the tension in the room was totally broken and when everyone finally composed themselves they were all wearing a huge grin. Mr. Ward replaced Donna's shoe on her foot and they finished the ceremony. It made for a great memory and a great laugh :-D
They went on to exchange rings and light a unity candle. Top right image by Anna. Left top and left bottom images by Sandy.
Ring shot on a maple leaf.
The families and wedding party braved the freezing temperature to duck out for some photos by the lake. Anna caught some great candid moments while I ran through the list of family formals. We loved their acorn boutonnieres.
Group shots on the deck - the smiles are bigger when they are standing next to the heaters!
The barn sparkled and glowed with pumpkin colored silk napkins and silver jack-o-lantern centerpieces.
Now I have to talk about the food. You all know my deep deep love of food :-) Donna and Mike asked The SpringHouse market to cater their wedding dinner and it was so.perfect. They had Thanksgiving dinner. Roasted turkey and sweet ham, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, vegetables, and all different kinds of pies. But the best part that really sent me off the food-love deep end was that SpringHouse market is not only a caterer and a farmers market, but also a dairy. They make and bottle their own chocolate milk! They had big metal washtubs filled with ice, sweet chocolate milk in resealable bottles, and straws. HEAVEN :-) Everyone has cookies at their wedding but no one ever remembered the milk until now! Please look closely at their cake topper, it will set the tone and prepare for things to come later in this post.
After dinner it was time for a classy first dance :-) Donna and Mike also decided to put a little spin on the hold "everyone keep clinking your glasses until they kiss" routine. At each place setting was a card explaining that all the glass clinking in the world would do no good, that if you wanted to see a good newlywed kiss - you and your table had to all stand up and sing a song together that contained the word 'love'. This worked so well and was so fun that Anna used the same concept for her wedding last month! Center image by Anna.
They cut the cake and answered the age old question, to smash or not to smash? They chose to smash in front of a cheering crowd. Top right image by Anna.
**** WARNING **** THE FOLLOWING IMAGES MAY BE TOO HOT TO HANDLE !
Ok, you were warned. I just hope you can handle the passion. Since it was still raining and there's only so much you can do for photos under an umbrella, we explored the front porch of the farmhouse where Donna and Mike were brave enough to work the camera resulting in this shot that I LOVE.
Meanwhile Sandy was capturing this KILLER detail shot!
Hiding out under the overhang on the carriage house. The leaves were so pretty, they were just so far away!! Top right image by Sandy.
The light was growing dim so we headed back to the barn for dancing. Doesn't it look like the perfect evening to snuggle inside and eat turkey dinner? It was.
*** WARNING AGAIN ***
Remember when I said to look closely at the cake topper? Well before the night was over Donna and Mike wanted to attempt to reenact the cake topper scene as well as have it in the photo. It came out perfect, no photoshop necessary!
All the seriousness aside and back to outrageous fun - Donna's single lady friends showed off a stunning display of grace and athleticism during the throwing of the bouquet! Image by Anna.
It was all dancing from there. Don't you just love it when "that guy" comes to a wedding? He's a different guy everytime, but he's "that guy". I love that guy :-)
Congratulations on your one year anniversary!!! Hope you're loving every minute :-D
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Lingrow Farm Catering Services: The SpringHouse Catering, Eighty-Four, PA
Comments added to this post ▣ Allison + Brian | 08.29.09
Blast from the past and the official kick off to the blogging personal challenge - Allison and Brian's wedding from last August. Fresh from the vault of unblogged material! Allison and Brian were married last august at Lingrow farm just a few months after their Pig Roast/Bachelor/Bachelorette/Engagement/Field Party - (which was a blast to photograph !)
Allison arrived from the salon with her mom and the ladies via limousine :-)
She carried with her a photo of her granddad on her bouquet to honor his memory.
Once she was ready, her Dad came to meet her so that they could climb into the horse and carriage and ride to the ceremony site. This was his reaction seeing his daughter for the first time :-)
It was gorgeous day ! I know this shot makes the lake look really far away, but it's just a wide angle lens trick - it's actually quite close to the barn.
Allison and Brian's mom's held hands escorting each other down the aisle to light the candles. The rose bushes were in bloom and almost exactly matched the hot pink wedding colors. Guests fanned themselves with the brightly colored programs.
Everyone gathered round to see Allison arrive in the white horse and carriage and walk down the aisle with her dad by her side. They exchanged rings by the lake and everybody cheered!
The new Mr. & Mrs !
Just married - whooohooo !!
My favorite shot of them all day! You wouldn't know it to meet her, but Allison was two dress bride! She wore a lace gown with a cathedral train for the ceremony and then switched into a halter dress for the reception. I liked both !
They are such a great couple - they have so much fun together !
Great image by Anna.
Another shot I love by Anna !
The night was great, and I have a story about the cake - their florist brought the flowers for the cake and then left and accidentally forgot to decorate the cake! Yikes! Not to fear - we keep superman capes in the back of my car - Allison's event coordinator and I just got in there and did it ourselves. Lucky for us it was an easy one ! I thought we did a pretty good job, afterwards we sat back and admired our work. "We could decorate cakes for a living....!" we said.
For the barm, they chose hot pink chair sashes with white, pink, and green hydrangea centerpieces.
Brian's Dad was his best man and gave a really touching toast about how honored he was that his son had chosen him, everyone teared up a little and it was time for dinner.
DJ Rockin John turned on the bubble machine for their first dance as husband and wife :-) I love how they reflect the light for photos.
Ahh at last the ring shot - on a Terrible Towel - after a surprise celebratory Terrible Towel wave coordinated by the maid of honor who hid terrible towels secretly under the seat cushions!
Ceremony & Reception: www.lingrowfarm.com
Entertainment: Dj Rockin John
Comments added to this post ▣ July
" We're having a heat waaaave, a tropical hhheeaatwaaaaave - the temperatures rising it isn't surprising she certainly can, can can! " - Marilyn Monroe from There's No Business Like Show Business
A little late here to post this month's calendar photo, I blame the holiday weekend. More to come in the next Weekend Update - camping, carbs, thoughts on Taylor Lautner, and beating the heat. Also - a wedding update.
This photo was taken at Lingrow Farm last July at Jaclyn & Dennis' wedding after a summer rain and the rainbow that followed faded. (Jaclyn! If you still read this blog or if anyone who knows them does - did they move?? )
Happy belated July 4th !
Comments added to this post ▣ Kristin + Scott | 8.22.09
Back to the archives to catch up on blogging from 2009 - there are so many great weddings and sessions that I haven't even blogged yet! I'm trying to intersperse them with this year's postings. So let's do a flashback!
Kristin and Scott were married at Lingrow Farm in Leechburg, PA. The morning was calm and sunny as Kristin and the girls stayed hidden in the carriage house enjoying the AC. Left image by Anna.
When the coast was clear, we stepped out in the side yard for some photos. Lingrow has beautiful grounds - there's literally a photo behind every corner. I loved the style of their blue bridesmaids gowns and the light chiffon was nice and cool.
Some details of Kristin's attire.
She was classic and elegant in a satin mermaid gown with ivory roses.
Scott was keeping it together over at the stable room - how come it's aways the guys who are anxious??
The ceremony location at Lingrow before the guests arrived.
When it was time, the groomsmen filed down to the lake and the boys handed out cardstock programs that were fixed to a handle so that guests could use them as a fan - clever for a midday august wedding!
Just before the ceremony, I love these two shots that Anna captured of the flower girl experiencing some trepidation about walking down the aisle with the ringbearer.
But like all sweet little romances - they patched things up and were adorable :-)
Kristin arrived on Lingrow's white horse-drawn carriage with her father and they walked among the roses down the aisle.
Kristin and Scott exchanged vows and held a simple sand ceremony - and Ta Da! Married :-)
The wedding party while we take advantage of a passing cloud blocking the sun!
More sweetness - by Anna.
The sun setting on Lingrow's barn where guests were just sitting down to dinner. Lingrow's facilities are heated, air conditioned and are fully handicap accessible.
Details, details. The used white table linens and blue hydrangeas.
Ring shot - the water flower shot again! (I'm patenting that. You saw it here first, folks.)
After delicious Garda's eggplant parmesan - we went out exploring the big field behind the barn which was blooming with queen anne's lace and purple clover in August.
Brave couples (who don't mind getting close to nature) are rewarded with outstanding images! Left and right images by Anna.
Loved the gold evening light as they headed back towards the barn. I love the huge, breezy back porches at Lingrow.
First dance :-)
I love it when you find "that guy" at a wedding - "that guy" can be anyone and can take many forms - but is always the life of the party!
The wedding party decorated the bride and groom's car before their big send off!
Last shot of the night - it was a blast !!!
Ceremony & Reception: Lingrow Farm Entertainment: DJ Rockin John Catering: Garda's Restaurant
Comments added to this post ▣ Christine & Peter - 7.26.09
Diamonds are forever :-) Christine & Peter tied the knot back in July in a casually elegant black and white wedding. Christine works for JARED (as in - He went to Jared!!) and we looooved her cake topper. Just wait till you see :-D
The day started in the carriage house at Lingrow with all of the girls getting ready. Peter's sisters kept coming in and out bringing along big smiles, delicious homemade cookies, and passing messages back and forth to Pete. It was a celebration!
Their flower girl was a little bit shy and so she carried her favorite lady bug in the bottom of her petal basket.
There were no tears until Peter sent over a little note and a special gift - a bracelet that Christine had heart set on for her to wear on their wedding day. Then there were lots of happy tears as relatives and friends helped Christine put the final touches on her hair and make-up, adjusted her veil and sent her out the door into the next chapter of her life.
Their ringbearer - already a handsome man - getting coached before he marched proudly down the aisle. No fear :-) Image by Anna
Then there she was - like a fairy tale princess coming through the trees in a white carriage. The breeze had kicked up and caught her veil just right. You could see her smile from all the way across the lake! Image by Anna.
Peter saw her for the first time and met her halfway to escort her to the lake himself. They exchanged their vows under the gazebo. There was a brief moment of panic (at least for Anna and I) when the wind came on strong and started throwing down big fat rain drops. We grabbed for the umbrellas and kept on shooting. The show must go on !
Luckily the rain blew over as fast as it had arrived. Christine made sure that Peter's ring was on good and tight ;-)
My buddy was like an assistant in training!!! A natural... he was great!!
Check out that cake topper! Blingalicious :-D The evening was beautiful and the black and white details of the reception really popped.
Whoa. :-*
And as we all know - just because there's rain doesn't mean the day is a wash. Sometimes it's just a way to bring out the rainbow. We were lucky enough to be seeing double for just a split second during dinner.
After dinner it was time for their first dance and the party!!
Their friends surprised them with some wedding gifts ;-)
We stayed late that night until Christine & Pete were ready to depart for their honeymoon.
Thank you so much for having us! I hope your first Christmas as husband and wife is magical :-)
Comments added to this post ▣ Jaclyn & Dennis Under the rainbow
The second half of Jaclyn & Dennis' big day! The weather was just a little cloudy which was enough to keep the July heat down. The humidity wasn't too bad either which is a blessing. We loved the color of the bridesmaid dresses - so bright and summery. They looked fantastic with the green grass and the dark skies.
Pastor John presided over the ceremony as the couple exchanged rings under the gazebo.
The whole ceremony, they could not stop smiling and laughing at eachother :-D
After the kiss and a receiving line of smiles and hugs that went on for miles we decided with the wind picking up and the clouds rolling in that we had better get to the pictures quick! Check out the drama-sky sweeping across the left side of the frame.
I told you there was A LOT of laughing with this group. UKP !!!!!
The room was decorated with coral satin chair sashes and lime and citrus colored centerpieces.
During the cocktail hour guests enjoyed fresh fruit as well as homemade wine that Dennis made himself! There were many different kinds to choose from including a green apple reisling that was YUM-O :)
During dinner Anna and I snuck off to do the ring shot. It had started to rain lightly by then and I was obsessed with doing something with the grape vine (since they make their own wine) and the whiskey barrell and the rain with the rings. I think we spent 30 minutes on this shot while everyone was eating. We drew a small crowd of caterers and staff who were having fun watching us work. So worth it though. I LOVE how this turned out.
So now dinner is coming to a close and I decided to head outside and check out the weather and sky situation to see when it would be a good time to get some establishing shots of the barn. I turned so my back was to the sun now shining brightly and LO - there was a GIANT RAINBOW that stretched from the trees behind the lake and made a huge arc across the sky and touched down in the trees just behind the barn. My jaw fell open. This never ever happens when you have a camera in your hand. I went running back inside, pulled Anna away from her dinner and dragged her to the deck pointing to the sky. Her jaw fell open. Etc. I went to find Jaclyn and Dennis - this was a rare rare opportunity and rainbows fade so fast - we had to get out there now!
I know that they say it's good luck to have rain on your wedding day - but this was icing on the cake with a cherry AND sprinkles on top. The lighting was so cool. The sun was setting with all of its golden tones but there was heavy cloud cover so it made the whole field almost glow. (You may think this is is a product of photoshop but I can assure you - the only 'shop here is that I cloned out a small pile of firewood in the background. All that rainbow goodness is real. And I only WISH I could craft something like that with the computer.)
The sky just got better and better as the rainbow faded and clouds rolled away. The sky turned crazy pink and purple under the clouds but you could still see the blue sky somewhere above them. This has been my desktop wallpaper for months.
The party was wild! Everyone danced and laughed and carried on!
To end a perfect day, they capped off the hot July evening with a small fireworks display.
The festivities carried on long into the night. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.
Congratulations!! Many happy memories!
Ceremony & Reception Location: www.lingrowfarm.com Catering: Garda's Restaurant Entertainment: DJ Rockin John
Comments added to this post ▣ Jaclyn & Dennis 07.18.09
I've decided I'm going to attempt to overcome my disease O.C.B.D (Obsessive Chronological Blog Disorder). I long to no longer be confined by the constraints of posting things in the order they were shot! Sean and I spent the weekend with my family on a road trip through north central PA and we took sooo many photos - and if I stick to my "posting in order" rules - I won't get to share them with you until christmas! I don't think I can wait that long. So while I'm getting that ready to show off - I want to share one of my favorite weddings of the summer! We have a great time at every wedding we are privileged to attend, but this one was extra special because of a weather event that NEVER HAPPENS when I'm holding a camera.
Until now! Here are some moments from the beginning of their day :-)
Jaclyn and her girls spent the morning at her Mom's house doing their hair and make-up and laughing A LOT :-)
Jaclyn's friend, D (who is unbeweaveable!) pinned her curls into place - her hair was GORGEOUS!
Jaclyn was relaxed and happy all morning and so beautiful.
After I left the girls, I headed over to the ceremony location to meet up with Dennis and his groomsmen. Great bunch of guys - they even laughed at my terrible jokes !
As the minutes ticked down to the ceremony, Jaclyn tried to sneak a peak out the door at the guests filing down the aisle. Her sister stayed with her - she had performed a small miracle earlier by racing back to their mom's house to get the flowers that had been forgotten in the rush! She was even pulled over for speeding and made it on time and with her smile intact!
Their wedding was smooth sailing after that! I'll post some more soon! Comments added to this post ▣ Heather & Kris - part 2
The rest of Heather & Kris's wedding. Did I mention they were a super-fun carefree couple? No stress here - they came to have fun and get married and celebrate! Here's Heather with her sisters and cousins while the rest of the bridesmaids were getting ready to walk down the aisle.
Remember I said this was a HUGE wedding party - and these are just the guys! Kris, plus the dads, plus the ushers and groomsmen made 16 men in all. Whew! We were challenged to find a piece of shade big enough to cover the whole wedding party!
This reminds me of shooting little league teams :-)
The ceremony site before the guests were seated.
Heather and Kris decided to include a sand ceremony after their vows. It's a great alternative to a unity candle for an outdoor ceremony. After all - if you lit a candle and then a stray gust of wind mysteriously poofed it out, that could be seen as a bad omen ;-) Sand stays put. Not to mention it's easier to keep around the house later !
A looooong receiving line - so much joy to be spread around :-) Image by Anna.
Inside the barn before the guests came in for dinner. Their colors were canary, tan, and light peach. It was light and summery and they used daisies in their boquets and centerpieces.
Heather downstairs in the barn coordinating the entrance with DJ Rockin John - (he's a great dj if you need one!)
When it was time to be announced, they played the Chicago Bulls theme song and the wedding party made up their own entrance complete with wild cheering and tear away pants! Heather and Kris ran through their "teammates" who formed a huddle and rallied and cheered while DJ John kept the smoke and the bubble machine firing!
After dinner we snuck outside for some alone time with Heather and Kris to just relax and be themselves.
They were instantly awarded 100 photo bonus points for being willing to lay on the grass for a few shots :-D I love it when couples are adventurous!
In true pittsburgh style, Kris wore his steeler socks under his tux. They had a great time hanging out with friends and Heather's Dad thanked Kris heartily for the chance to witness a good cake smashing (especially since it was his daughter). We'll talk more about cake smashing at a later date.
Later it was time for the bouquet and garter toss, when Kris threw it over his shoulder - it hit the floor and the guys had to make a dive for it. Right image by Anna.
Congratulations Heather & Kris - I hope everyday is half as fun as your wedding day for the next 50 years :-)
Ceremony/Reception site: Lingrow Farm Entertainment: DJ Rockin John Caterer: Garda's Cake: Debbie Sutara Salon Services: Fashions-A-Head Salon & Day Spa
Comments added to this post ▣ Heather & Kris - June wedding - part 1
Heather and Kris were married in June at Lingrow Farm and I have to say - they might hold my personal record for largest wedding party. Seriously, they were like a coed professional sports team with flowers. It was pretty wild, Anna and I walked into the salon with rows and rows of chairs and realized that every person in the whole place was a member of the wedding party! It was like being backstage at a runway show. There was enough hairspray in the air to freeze frame a flock of geese!
Fashions-a-Head does a fantastic job and are unique from other salons because instead of all your bridesmaids waiting their turn for hair and make-up, the salon brings in a stylist for every bridesmaid so that all the girls can get their hair done at once. Heather, 10 bridesmaids and her mom were there for hair and makeup and it took less than 2 hours start to finish. Now that's salon-tastic.
The whole place was full of giggling and nail polish - we loved it. Because after all, if you can't be a little girly on your wedding day, then when can you?
While the girls were finishing their make-up we headed back to the farm to meet up with the guys. Kris was handling the finer points of boutonier pinning.
I promise to keep blogging since I'm so far behind! Thank you faithful readers!!!
Comments added to this post ▣ Fun at the farm - Lingrow Portrait Day 2009At long last - I know these pictures were literally ages ago - all the way back in June. (That's how far behind this blog is - I really will catch up though!) The Lingrow Portrait Day was a big big success and as usual I had a blast spending the afternoon out in the sunshine with some familiar faces, and some new friends. Although no one brought a fishing pole, and I never found the inflatable orange couch I wanted - it was still a great day for photos.
Meet the Kingera's :-) They were married last fall at Lingrow Farm and unfortunately I was already booked for their date and wasn't able to be there with them. How lucky am I though that they decided to come back for a visit and some "belly shots" as they await the arrival of their first little one :-)
Of course I asked if they were waiting for a boy or a girl - Julie said she thought it was a girl, but her husband is convinced that it was a boy. He "saw the sonogram photo - and trust him - that was no girl " ;-) Either way they are waiting until the delivery date to find out - SO EXCITING! Actually - since these photos were in early June - they might already know! And if they don't yet - they'll definitely be finding out soon. Julie - if you read the blog - How are you guys???
Familiar faces back again were the Emili's :-) This post will just be loaded with little emoticon smileys of every variety so just smile along with them. Everytime we get together we have fun and get to catch up on the latest - they are expecting another grandchild for next year!
Do not. Do not ever. Play cards with these girls.
More familiar faces and friends as the day went on. If any of you were reading last year - you'll remember the three amigos Kate, Syd, & Jake. Well they were back this year and brought along Kate's brand new brother and the latest addition to the family, Aaron. Kate is a whole new persona as a big sister and takes her job very seriously.
Very very seriously. I love this picture.
Still getting used to having such a tiny person around - I asked her and she said he still can't play soccer yet and he screams a lot - Kate is sometimes wary of him when he's fussy. But here I asked her to tell him a story to make him feel better. She was telling him how much she loved carrots and he would too.
And then the cousins arrived and the amigos were a quartet! It was so good to see Syd & Jake feeling happy and healthy and playing in the grass. It hasn't been an easy year so far for them, but they're doing great. Jake was very proud of his missing tooth - apparently the tooth fairy was very generous ;-)
Aaron has no idea yet how his life will take shape surrounded by these three. A big sister and two cousins to be both a family and a friend. Always there to beat up bullies and yell for mom over spilled bubbles and skinned knees.
Being a kid should last at least the first 50 years of life.
There's one month left of summer - don't miss it.
Comments added to this post ▣ Minda & Brett - Part 2 (image overload!)
I'm getting so far behind on blogging that I had to catch up on all the good stuff that's already happened so I can get to the part where I can show you the good stuff that's going on now ! Yowza - I wish I could give you sneak peaks from Molly & J at Fallingwater, fireworks on the river, french and indian war cannon's in the woods, summer wildlife, lingrow portraits, Olivia's rockin senior session, Jess & Jaison at Hartwood Acres, Zack v.2010, and Ben & Amy - but I'm just not done yet! And it's too good to skip over anything!
Just keep clicking over here - cause just when you think it's good we're taking it to a whole. nother. level.
Oh snap.
Back to Minda and Brett - when we last left this blog entry, Minda was just pulling up to their ceremony in the white horse drawn carriage. Her two ringbearers enjoying the ride with her - one carried the embroidered monogram pillow with the rings tied to a bow, and the other proudly held a banner that read "Here comes the Bride".
I love this venue.
Their ceremony brought me to tears (along with every other person present including the minister). Since Minda works with kids, they used an excerpt from The Velveteen Rabbit as a reading. Basic synopsis - the story is told from the point of view of a stuffed rabbit that lives in a child's nursery and covers a lot of topics about love and growing up and growing old. Here's a snippet - (this starts at the point when the Skin Horse and the Rabbit are talking)
Maybe I'm just an old softy - but it was a beautiful reading. And we all needed a tissue after that.
Just married they boogie-ed back up the aisle and into the awaiting carriage for a private ride around the lake.
A few fun pictures with some of the kids that Minda has nannied over the years. Images 2, 3, 5, and 6 courtesy of Anna.
This next group is also courtesy of Anna who had the spy lens while we were doing the formals.
Minda and Brett and their family and friends put so much care into the details of this wedding. Here, they strung a clothesline on the porch of the barn and had blank tags that guests could write messages on and then clothespin to the line. The staff at Lingrow had big glass containers of cold lemonade and ice tea for guests to sip while they visited.
SO FUN! Minda and Brett rented a margarita machine for the wedding! They found these great giant margarita glasses (my mum would call them 'bathtubs' - I have several at home) that they decorated and instead of fruit or umbrellas they floated bride and groom rubber ducks in their drinks as a garnish.
The food was amazing courtesy of Chef and I catering. There was roast turkey and beef, sandwich materials, jumbalaya, steamed vegetables, and a pasta station where you could choose your own noodles, sauce, and toppings and have your own personal combination cooked to perfection right before your eyes. Guests couldn't wait to get to the fancy cupcakes (KeyLime, BananaPeanutButter, Smores, and ChocStrawberry flavor).
Ice Ice Baby :-) Literally - Anna and I were downstairs melting ice cubes to make special effects for this shot!
The Best Man and Maid of Honor each gave heartfelt toasts.
Minda and Brett took dance lessons prior to the wedding and impressed everyone with a very sweet waltz.
When there was a lull in the evening before the serious partying started, I stole the couple away outside for some private photo time. They each had brought a gift for one another and opened them sitting down at the dock. Minda gave Brett a very nice watch and he had a gorgeous bracelet for her.
Love Love Loved the parasol...
When guests arrived that day they found empty jars with their name and table number on them. That way they could carry their jar to the candy buffet and fill it with their favorite sweets to take home.
This couple is brilliant - you've figured that out by now, right? They had a caricature artist come to the reception and draw for the guests as they posed for their portrait. Everybody loved it and tons of people went home with an extra personalized souvenier to remember a crazy fun day!
Just before it got dark that night Minda and Brett stepped outside to do a "Thank You Shot" so they could use it for their thank you cards after the wedding. They had crafted a sign made out of tags strung on a line.
Congratulations and thank you both so much for the privilege of having us shoot your wedding! I can't wait to see pictures from Figi !! (They were honeymooning and swimming with sharks!)
Ceremony & Reception Site: Lingrow Farm Food Services: Chef and I Salon Experts: Planet Chi
Comments added to this post ▣ Minda & Brett 05.23.09
Greetings! Wow - long time no post.. Sorry about that guys. Things to explain: my fantastic printer bit the dust after 3 years of loyal service. I was peeved - it actually counted down like a death clock "parts inside your printer are reaching the end of their service life" followed by "parts inside your printer are near the end of their service life" (I thought it was a clever pressure sales technique by Epson to get me to go out and buy something) and then finally "parts inside your printer have reached the end of their service life" and it stopped printing. Completely. The nice folks at Epson informed me that unless I wanted to drive it to a service center (1+ hour away) and pay for parts and labor, that I was now the proud owner of a 27 lb paperweight and their advice was to just buy a new printer. They even gave me a handy link to where I could buy the new model of that printer for 10% off. And go back to the pure joy of having to special order 8 ink cartridges online wait for them to arrive and then count the months until the new Epson death clock started to count down. No thank you. I've switched to HP. Does it read 15 memory cards? No. Does it print directly onto the surface of a CD? No. Does it have a 5 inch LCD screen which allows me to view photos and correct red eye and print little kitten greeting cards? No. But what it does do is Print. Scan. And Copy. With 2 ink cartridges I can get even at walmart. And it does it all - wirelessly. Finally my laptop and I can venture out into the outdoor world where we were meant to be the whole time!
And now - on to the photos! Minda & Brett were married on May 23rd at Lingrow Farm. This is only part 1 of this celebration because it was too awesome for just one post! I'm trying something different here with the blog collages. I've done them a bunch of different ways, let me know which ones you like the best.
I met up with Minda, her bridesmaids, and the moms at Planet Chi Salon in Lower Burrell. I don't know if it was the hairspray cloud hanging in the air or the fantastic staff, but it was a great start to an amazing day!
I left the girls at the salon and headed out to the farm with Anna to get a sneak peak at all the fabulous details inside the barn.
Minda made all of the centerpieces herself with fresh flowers. And there were tags on everything - cool tags like you'd see on a package. They tied everything together with tags labeling family photos, tags on the candy buffet, larger tags featuring photos of their dog were the table cards.
Some fabulous details from the hand embroidered ring pillow, to the baskets at the back of the aisle which held tissues and programs, the hanging vases that lined the processional with fresh flowers.
This is just a sneak peak of what's to come. After the bridesmaids came down the aisle and Brett stood waiting, everyone had turned waiting and watching. Where was the bride? Where - and then someone spotted her and pointed and everyone turned to see. From across the lake came a horse drawn carriage carrying Minda and her two ring bearers in a sweeping circle around the lake, up the lane, and across the field to her wedding. I can't wait to show you more!
Don't forget, comment and vote on which new blog board you like the best. Comments added to this post ▣ Natalie & Zack 09.27.08
Natalie and I go way back to 9th grade gym class - (she's one hell of a floor hockey player - don't let her fool you!) and I was so excited when she called me last spring to say that she was getting married! I wish I could say that she was married on a beautiful sunny day - but that was only true half of the day. That was the saturday that it started to rain in the afternoon and poured till sunday morning. Rain is good luck! And makes for some great skies and deep colors for photos. The day started at Natalie's parent's home where her Dad made a huge breakfast of bacon, sausage, eggs, and toast for Natalie and the bridesmaids. Natalie's niece and nephew were the flower girl and ring bearer - so cute!
They were married at St. Gertrude Catholic Church in Vandergrift - we snuck outside before the ceremony to get some shots of Natalie as the skies were beginning to darken. She was a beautiful bride :-)
The church was gorgeous and decorated with handmade arrangements of flowers and ribbon at the ends of the pews.
They stepped out of the church to a shower of bubbles - my friend here was determined to make the biggest bubble.
Their reception was held at Lingrow Farm in Leechburg. We were worried about the outdoor photos we had planned but were glad to be in the barn safe from the rain. Their guests were nice and dry as they sat on the porch with their drinks and cookies watching sheets of rain hit the lake. We went from worried about pictures to just plain bummed out.
The barn was decorated with fall leaves and tulle. The families did all of the decorations themselves including the centerpieces which were hurricane vases with clear lights and cattails and grasses wrapped in green ribbon.
The head table equipped with crayons ;-)
The sky was dark and they were calling for rain for the whole night.
However - right after the toasts and just a few minutes in to dinner the rain slowed to a drizzle and then stopped completely for about 20 minutes. Natalie was outstanding - she told everybody to get up and were were going outside and we'd eat when we got back! She and Zack braved the mud to get down to the lake for pictures.
A little rain never hurt anybody!!
I love the reflection on the water. Impossible on a sunny day, but perfect in the rain. She is stunning!
Their cake with the mongram cake topper Natalie made herself.
The rest of your photos are still in the works! It''s been crazy busy with senior pictures 6 nights a week! I blame the leaves! I hope these tide you over a little while longer till I get your proofs online!
Ceremony: St. Getrude Catholic Church Reception: Lingrow Farm Flowers: Community Market, Lower Burrell Cake: Deb Sutara
Comments added to this post ▣ the family that plays together
Two weeks ago we had an outdoor session with an awesome family (too many lastnames to list them all!) at Lingrow Farm in Leechburg, PA. Three generations came together to play football and hang out in the big backyard behind the barn. If you recognize familiar faces - that's Laura & Matt the newlyweds on the far left with their new puppy Sonic!
Baby Quentin with his aunt Rachel. Image by Sean.
This family is serious about Steeler pride - reenacting the flag raising of Iwo Jima.
Just goofing around :-)
After some fun with the football and a quick outfit change, we headed down to the lake.
Debbie and Greg - proud ring leaders of this bunch!
Ok - I can't take any credit for coming up with this idea, it was all their own and I LOVED it! They brought all of their own props and outfits and we set it all up in the field. Since they are celebrating Laura & Matt's marriage and baby Quentin as a new addition to the family tree, we said their christmas cards should read: "our family is a work in progress" or "under construction".
What a cool group and a great afternoon!! Extra points for thinking outside the box!!
Comments added to this post ▣ Jennie & Roger 09.05.08
**UPDATED WITH MORE PHOTOS** Jennie and Roger were married a few weeks ago at Lingrow Farm on the most beautiful friday evening of the whole summer. I think the best light out of the whole year is the first 2 weeks of september, all that beautiful gold of the summer with just a little crisp contrast from the fall that's to come. Their wedding was relaxed, classy, unique, sentimental, emotional, and most of all incredibly fun! From the simple wreath of flowers in her hair, to her handcrafted wedding dress, the day was filled with details that made it extra special for everyone who was there. I had the pleasure of shooting with my friend and fellow photog Bill Shirley for this one and we had a great time at the ceremony!
Jennie and her mother getting ready in the carriage house.
Jennie was a seriously SERIOUSLY gorgeous bride. Wow.
Guests at Lingrow can be seated inside the barn, or out here on the huge upper deck. The weather was so nice they turned off the air conditioning and opened all the doors and let the breeze in.
Roger, the flower girl and ring bearer, and the minister wait on the steps of the huge porch while Jennie gets ready. Image by Bill.
They were adorable. Halfway to the end of the aisle the flower girl suddenly remembered her flowers and stopped to dump her whole basket out in one pile. It was priceless! Image by Bill.
Guests were seated quietly just out of the frame as Jennie came down the aisle. Roger stood at the end of the aisle on the dock at the lake. This is my personal ideal wedding, no stress, no pressure, just a beautiful day and beautiful view and the guy you can't wait to marry standing there waiting for you.
Just married - and so much joy!!
After the ceremony they had a cocktail hour and champagne toast. They served wine, cheeses, rustic breads, whole beans and peas in the pod. So of course - I just couldn't help myself. Two peas in a pod.
This may seem like an unusual picture for a wedding, but the food was so amazing I had to investigate. That, ladies and gentlemen, is filet mignon wrapped in bacon on a giant firewood smoker grill. I think the two greatest smells on earth are campfire and steak - so I was in heaven. Mitch's Mobile Barbeque brought in the smoker and cooked filet mignon, steak, and the best grilled chicken I've ever tasted along with all of the fixings.
Jennie and her father out on the dance floor.
Roger with his mom.
No Bad Juju was rocking the house that night and everyone was dancing.
We had a wonderful time! Congratulations and thank you for having us!
Location: Lingrow Farm Entertainment: No Bad Juju Quisine: Mitch's Mobile BBQ
Comments added to this post ▣ Jenny & Collin 07.12.08
Jenny and Collin were married on July 12th in Leechburg, PA. Their wedding was a rock-star worthy affair at Lingrow Farm where their outdoor ceremony was held. Hot pink and black were the signature colors with lots of fabulous details from the flowers to the decorations to the music - it was the place to be! I met Jenny last year when I did her sister Natalie's wedding in October. I was so thrilled when she emailed me to ask me to shoot her wedding as well!
Jenny and the girls toasting in the farm house before she slipped into her wedding dress.
I loved this pin she wore in her hair.
Since it was SO HOT out guests could enjoy the breeze on the upper deck of the barn.
Jenny and her Dad just before he walked her down to the lake. Image by Sean.
Jenny and Collin exchanged rings before their family and friends on the platform that extends out into the water,
Also LOVED the flowers. The men wore black on black - black suits, black shirts, black tie.
The whole wedding party braving the hot sun!
During dinner Jenny and Collin snuck outside with me for a few shots in the field. They get an A for adventurous - I was in photo heaven!
The barn just after sunset - I love this venue. It's country and comfortable with a lot of class.
Thanks for having us!
Ceremony & Reception site: Lingrow Farm Florist: Leechburg Floral Catering: Strictly Business
Comments added to this post ▣ Renee & Mufutau 5.24.08
Renee & Mufu had a beautiful wedding on May 24th 2008. Renee and her mother met me at a bridal expo back in febuary and as luck would have it - we were still available for her date! Since her reception was at Lingrow farm, she decided to spend the night before the wedding at the completely restored farmhouse on the grounds and get ready there the next morning. Since she wasn't back yet from her hair appointment when I arrived, I had the rare and amazing opportunity to scope out the reception hall all decked out and untouched by the throngs of guests who would be there later.
I LOVED her shoes - and with a groom who's almost 7 feet tall you can wear heels all the time!!
They rented a Hummer limousine to transport the whole wedding party - 20+ people!! from the church to the reception!
One very classy junior bridesmaid.
Sean caught this great moment of the flower girls marching around the lake. They were so excited about their 'jobs' that day they were first in line for everything!
Renee's gorgeous diamonds! Wow!
Brother and sisters
Image by Sean
We headed outside after dinner to try and catch the softer evening light by the lake.
I love this shot! So cute - he's carrying her flowers for her because the ground was squishy after a week of rain
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Ceremony: St. James Church - Apollo Reception: Lingrow Farm Transportation: Extreme Limousine
Comments added to this post ▣ lingrow farm family portrait day
We traveled to Lingrow Farm for portraits this past Sunday and were pleased to be joined by the Dilick's, the Vigna's and the Meighan's! Lingrow Farm is an amazing spot for a wedding reception, reunion, or any event. The main feature is the 1800s barn that was completely restored to be an elegant air conditioned venue with a touch of country class. Since there was a graduation party at the barn that day, we decided to explore the grounds which have unlimited and awesome photo opportunities from the fields, to the lake, the farm house steps, there's tons to see! The Meighan's were the last family of the day just before the sun set and are always fun to hang out with! - (I realize I'm posting these in reverse order, but I haven't quite got the hang of this blog interface yet, so bear with me).
This was the last shot of the day - and I LOVE it!! He gave me a big 1-2-3 ta da!
He has the best personality too - full of energy and spunk!
Meet the Vigna's! They were real troopers - in a massive display of unprofessionalism I was kind of squatting with one foot in the lake trying to get a good angle on the shot I was taking and my foot got stuck in the mud. Not just kind of stuck - STUCK. In fact, I was unable to get myself unstuck. I had to hand the camera off and they were able to pull me out but when the mud let go of my foot it kind of slurped free and my shoe flung mud all over the place and my foot was somewhere in the middle of it. I was SO EMBARASSED!! They were great though and told me not to worry.
The girls were on the move!
This was such a great moment between brother and sister - she was running around all over the place but was so gentle with her baby brother.
Meet the Dilick family! They were the first brave group of the day wiling to be out in the hot sun at 4pm with tons of humidity. These brothers had a great time throwing pebbles in the lake and watching for the frogs.
I love this shot - we gave the boys a 5 minute break to play in the grass after all of the patient sitting still they had been doing.
Thank so much to all the families who came out and let me into your lives and into your family for the afternoon. I can't think of a better way to spend the day ! I hope to see you all again soon!
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