A + J's colorful affair

A+J's spring wedding at the Alfond Inn was nothing short of perfect. I have dreamed about shooting at this venue since moving to Florida. For the locals of Winter Park, it is an iconic landmark that is the background for many childhood memories.  While getting ready the bride reminisced of moments from her childhood that made this hotel the obvious venue choice for her special day. Her parents lived just down the street and their whole family had always loved visiting the Alfond Inn.

From the moment we stepped into the bridal suite we knew this day was going to be a sweet one. A + J had one of the largest bridal parties I had ever worked with and all eighteen of the bridesmaids and groomsmen filled the day with joy and laughter. The bride and groom themselves were two of the most joyous people I have ever met. Almost every photo captured during their portraits showcase their effortless, contagious joy. During their first look the love they hold for each other was tangible. They could not decide whether to laugh or to cry, so they did both. These are always my favorite moments as a wedding photographer. The moments that make me shed a tear behind the camera.

Photographing their bridal party was a dream. The bride curated the most beautiful assortment of bridesmaids dresses. Each dress was so different, yet perfectly complemented the others. They made my job easy  as they all clearly felt confident and beautiful in their assigned dress. And just when we thought documenting their day could not get any sweeter, their dogs showed up to join in the photos!

This couple's unique style shined brightest during their ceremony. I always love seeing how each couple chooses to make this portion of the day their own. It is the only part of a wedding that still holds so close to tradition, yet each one I attend is somehow different from the last. However, their giggles and smiles did not cease in the seriousness of tradition. Both bride and groom grinned ear to ear from the moment she walked down the aisle to when they made their exit as husband and wife.

Cocktail hour followed, which I have to say, is perhaps my favorite part of a wedding day. I love watching friends reunite, meet significant others, catch up after not seeing each other since college, and of course take in all of the guest fashion. When the bride's second cousin shows up in the perfect outfit and then grabs a cocktail that matches the vibe perfectly, I can’t help myself, I have to snap a photo.

As expected their reception was stunning down to every last detail. The tablescape complimented the bridesmaids dresses perfectly, further showcasing her spring aesthetic. My favorite part was the fruit she incorporated into her tablescapes (a trend I am living for when it comes to spring and summer weddings.)

The bride and groom ended the night surrounded by friends and family on the dance floor and I wouldn’t have expected anything less from this wonderful group of people.