Melissa + Paul : Kenwood Depot Wedding

Photo Credits: Maria Villano Photography

Dawn + James : Eco-Friendly Wedding

Today's real wedding features Dawn and James' eco-friendly event at the Four Rivers Environmental Center, located just outside of Chicago in the McKinley Woods Forest Preserve. As the bride told me, "By planning a 'green' wedding, we hope that our eco-friendly elements lessen the environmental footprint of our special day and truly make a difference." 


Their story is a classic opposites attract tale. Dawn is from the city, James is from the country. She's and interior designer, he's a farmer & lumberjack. It was important to them for their wedding to reflect both of their personalities and to maintain an elegant feel while incorporating natural elements. The result was an intimate, sophisticated event that perfectly represented the blending of two unique individuals. 

Photo credits : Elizabeth Greve Photography

Jessica + Zach : Engagement Session

Jessica and Zach were brought together by tragedy, but prove that out of the most difficult situations, beautiful things can emerge. They started dating in high school, and have essentially grown up together. "We've been together through everything," Jessica told me. "The main inspiration for our engagement shoot was to allow the love we have for each other to show through in our pictures and to have images that really capture our relationship in a candid manner."

Photo Credits: Kristina Gaines

Maile + Gerry : Minerals Resort Wedding

Today's real wedding feature showcases Maile and Gerry's Minerals Resort Wedding. Located in Vernon, New Jersey, part of the larger Crystal Springs Resort, the romantic venue perfectly reflected their personal style. As Maile told me, "It was a really easy choice for us. The location and ambiance were perfect for our rustic taste".

Photo Credits: Asthete Studios

Alexa + Galen : Angel's Knoll Engagement Session

Alexa and Galen's love story is one that truly makes me believe some people are just destined to be together. I love the idea of two imperfect people finding one another and coming to the realization that together, they are perfectly matched. As Alexa told me, "we have so many things in common, but more importantly, all of our insecurities that make us quirky or sometimes impossible to be around are what bring us so close together." 

The couple were engaged in December 2011 after a whirlwind romance. "Our engagement story isn't extremely romantic or without some hiccups, but if you knew us you'd realize that it is a perfect 'us' story." And you can see it captured in their eyes in their beautiful Angel's Knoll engagement session. Read on for more of their love story...

Vanessa + Chris : Middle Ranch Wedding

Today we feature Vanessa & Chris who were married at Middle Ranch Lodge, located on a 650-acre horse ranch bordered by the Angeles National Forest. From the rustic elements in their flowers and decor to her simple strand of pearls and classic birdcage veil, it was an incredibly intimate wedding with a truly vintage touch.