Santos Wedding

I had been looking forward to this wedding for years it seemed.  It was the wedding between my beautiful cousin, Leeanne, and her incredible fiancé, George.  The chance to photograph such a special day for a family member always brings me joy, but the chance to do it in St. Augustine made it that much better (if you know me, you know how much I love the beach).  There was no stress or anxiety on this day, there was only joy.  When I say joy, I do not mean squeals and hyper-excitement that can accompany such a big celebration.  This day was filled with the type of joy that comes from the comfort of being with someone for so long, knowing them better than they know themselves, and knowing that there is no question that you have found your life partner.

 

Leeanne’s bridesmaids were all sisters (hers and George’s), but there was such a genuine friendship among them. I honestly felt so at ease with them, as they were so kind, inclusive and encouraging.  It was so much fun listening to them share old stories and create new memories.  Taking Leeanne’s bridal portraits in the stunning bridal suite of the The White Room, it was truly something to behold.  She was just glowing in the most effortless and organic way.

 

The ceremony was set in the beautiful Villa Blanca, and guests witnessed the exchanging of vows under high ceilings with gorgeous crystal chandeliers and walls of windows overlooking the water.  The backdrop was simple and elegant, and beautifully highlighted this precious couple.

 

The reception was one of my most favorite to date.  George’s family is from Panama, and it was beautiful to see the mixture of cultures present at this celebration.  From the food to the dancing, there was such an influx of flavor and passion to the evening.

 

Leeanne and George, I love you both so much! Your day was a dream and it was such a privilege to be the one there to capture it!!  I hope you enjoy the pictures for years to come.  Here are a few of my favorites from your day!!

Wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Gross

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedded Bliss

When I was asked to photograph the wedding of Joe and Sarah Gross, I was honored.  Having had the opportunity to photograph this incredible blended family before, I had already seen the genuine bond they share.  As I discussed details of the day with Sarah, I was able to learn so much more about this couple and their family.  She described how their children would be woven into every part of the day, and I was inspired.  Weddings are so often focused on the couple, or even more so the bride, but this wedding would be much different.  This wedding was about a family, and the adventure they would take on together.  There were vows to love and cherish each other, but also vows of love and respect to each child.  It is said that a wedding unites two families, but this wedding beautifully personified that.

Not only were their children involved, but so were their extended families.  Joe’s mother officiated the ceremony using a Bible from Sarah’s family.  Sarah’s sister crafted the stunning floral arrangements.  Each parent and sibling had a reading during the ceremony, and the entire family participated in a family prayer.  Before being placed on their fingers, the rings were passed between each person to allow a prayer to be said over it.  That day may have been a wedding of two people, but it was profoundly based on family.

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance

Wedding Photography by Photography by Catherine LaChance