Amy and Kevin tied the knot this past weekend at the beautiful Courtyard at Lake Lucerne. I was fortunate enough to be able to meet my traveling couple about a month before the wedding when we did an engagement session at the beautiful historic building. The historic home sits among a row of other beautiful homes, each from a different era. The bed-and-breakfast welcomes travelers in for sleeping and dining, while also catering to the sweetest couples on their wedding day.
Amy and Kevin were truly no exception when it came to sweetness. I felt as though we had been long term friends all along even before their big day. My day started off capturing Amy as she got dolled up by my dear friend Janet, owner and artist of Onsite Beauty. Janet created a classic look on Amy that will look timeless when she looks back at her wedding day images.
After grabbing detail shots of Amy’s pretty little things, I headed over to the bed and breakfast next door to grab shots of Kevin putting on his suit in the sitting room. Kevin had me laughing when I mentioned that he Amy thought he was nervous. He responded stating that Amy was wrong and that he was actually “extremely nervous.” I just knew how excited (and nervous) he was to marry the woman of his dreams.
Amy and Kevin actually first met several years back while both traveling in Nashville for work. The two instantly connected and dated long term before moving in together in November of 2015. One day before Valentine’s day, Kevin brought Amy to the sweetest restaurant that they considered their “spot.” While sitting down for dinner, Kevin surprised Amy with a Michael Kors purse. Of course Amy began snooping around in her new purse and checking out all of the pockets. To her surprise she found a little box inside, which had as she puts it, “the most gorgeous, sparkly ring.” Amy and Kevin can’t recall the night minute by minute, but what they remember is how “it was perfect, and perfectly “us.”
I remembered this quote from Amy after hearing Kevin tell me how nervous he was. The two just knew they were meant for one another, but of course the big day can still be filled with so much emotion. I headed back over to the main yellow house to grab shots of Amy putting on her gown with her best friend and maid of honor Jami Elliott.
With the ceremony only an hour out, it was time to head downstairs for Amy and Kevin’s first look. I honestly ADORE first looks. My favorite part of every wedding are the moments alone with my couple. I enjoy capturing their emotion when the two of them are alone and not feeling like all eyes are on them. Situated in the heart of the courtyard, Amy peeked out of the woods as she walked up to Kevin. It was so hard for Kevin to not turn around, while he knew she was walking up to him. The emotion was incredible – smiles, laughter, and kindness. The two were incredibly supportive and loving knowing the nerves of what was to come. After many gorgeous shots, I let Kevin depart with his best man Aaron Lohman and Amy head back inside with Jami.
The ceremony was just as beautiful as my sweet couple. A stunning pagoda sits in the back of the house, perfectly overlooked by white resin guest chairs. As guests gathered, I could see my couple peeking out to see who had arrived. Their ceremony included a sand pouring and lighting of a candle to loved ones they have lost. After saying their “I Do’s” and sharing their very first kiss as Mrs. and Mr. we headed to the front of the home for formal portraits.
The grandeur of the front of the yellow colonial home is captivating and made for a beautiful landscape shot. After spending some time with family and their wedding party, we focused on capturing a few more intimate shots inside. It is as though the home never aged, but at the same time kept its beauty and richness.
The reception was just as intimate as their garden ceremony. Family and friends sat close together inside on the first floor of the home as they enjoyed their delicious dinner. Dancing took place outside on the brick patio, which was originally set for the ceremony. I loved how versatile the venue was in creating dynamic spaces that could easily be transformed from day to night. When the night came to a close, guests sent my sweet couple off with a bubble sendoff and hugs goodbye.
Wishing these two a beautiful life together and many more beautiful memories to come!
Venue: The Courtyard at Lake Lucerne
Caterer & Rentals: John Michael Weddings & Events
Hair & Makeup: Onsite Beauty
Florist: Blossoms
Cake: Anna Cakes
Dress Shop: David’s Bridal
Officiant: Always and Forever Weddings
Men’s Attire: Formal Penguin
Ring Shop: International Diamond Center
Ring Designer: HENRI DAUSSI
