This was the wedding that almost didn't happen. The Great Snow Storm of '09,
almost prevented it from taking place. But, the persistence of the newlyweds-to-be and their wonderfully accommodating vendors allowed the happy couple to proceed with their plans despite over a foot of snow on the ground. I suspect I was not the only person that day, saying many prayers of thanks for AWD vehicles! :-)
The wedding was scheduled for a Saturday, but actually took place on Sunday. I would estimate that nearly half of the guest list braved the snowy roads to come and see the wedding take place. What an amazing show of support and love for the Bride and Groom, that so many people came out to share their special day. Very impressive.
The ceremony and reception took place at beautiful and stately
Oak Ridge Estate in Nelson County. This 200 year old estate has everything a perfect wedding day requires: elegant furnishings, breath taking scenery and warm, welcoming hosts.
The upstairs rooms of the mansion were spacious and elegant with full length mirrors and beautiful natural light streaming through the windows. An absolutely perfect place for the Bride and her girls to make their final preparations for the Big Day.
Putting on the final touches
Because of the snow, we were a little limited as to where we could do portraits of the Bride. This doorway opening onto the snow covered grounds behind the mansion provided an interesting place for a silhouette.
The Groom and his boys were very dapper in classic white, black and red. They braved the falling icicles and melting snow to get this picture on the front porch.
The beautiful bride and her lovely entourage are simply glowing as they proceed down the grand staircase, ready for the beginning of a new life.
Amanda and her Dad heading down the hallway towards her waiting Groom.
Alex gets the first look at his beautiful bride coming down the aisle.
Wiping away a tear of joy.
The decor of poinsettia's and greenery made a perfect compliment to a December wedding.
Amanda and Alex's wedding day was filled with so much honest, unaffected emotion. The two of them were such a pleasure to behold that it literally brought a tear to my eye. As a hardened veteran of many years of wedding photography, this was no mean feat.
Amanda receives a heartfelt hug from her Mom
Such a beautiful couple, all glowing with that newlywed joy
This is one of my favorite images from the event. It captures the snow-scape, the style and the emotion of the day so well.
The reception was held in
The Carriage House It was resplendent with fine details.
The delicious and well presented dinner was provided by
Liberty Catering
The Bride and her Dad share the first dance
In a symbolic gesture, the Groom cuts in :-)
At the end of the day everyone was relaxed and happy and some impromptu dancing broke out.
The happy couple departed the scene in a flurry of bubbles and well-wishes from family and friends
And I leave you with one final image which I like to call "The Future is Bright"
I think that about says it all, don't you? Thanks Amanda and Alex for letting me play a part in your very special day! Best wishes for the brightest of futures together!!
