As we walked up the busy hallway to the Ritz-Carlton, my heart began to race a little. I had been looking forward to capturing Samantha and Andrew’s wedding day since their engagement session last year. Now their big day was finally here! You could hear the excited chatter of the bridesmaids from behind the thick hotel room door. They were all buzzing around the room getting their hair and makeup done to perfection. After receiving a big hug from Samantha, we were immediately introduced to all of her super sweet bridesmaids and family members. I was already feeling so loved and welcomed when Samantha’s mom quietly held my hand and pulled me aside. In one of the kindest voices I’ve ever heard she said, “Samantha and Andrew have absolutely just loved working with you. Thank you so much.” Wow! Who knew that such a simple statement could mean so much? I was so touched and from that moment on, I knew that this was going to be an AMAZING DAY!!!
Samantha and Andrew have such a genuinely sweet and honest relationship. We loved capturing them with all of their family and friends but our favorite part of the day was taking portraits of just the two of them outside in Public Square. The streets were crawling with people soaking up the beautiful Labor Day temperatures and the air was filled with the sonic booms of jet fighters passing overhead from the nearby air show, but these two were still so calm and laid back. They’re total pros! 🙂 Having a bride and groom with this type of demeanor made it so easy for us to get creative and create a sense of peace, tranquility and divine love amongst the chaos.
I have to say that I always LOVE working with people that have personality and charisma. It’s the BEST!!!! Well, not only do Samantha and Andrew possess these two qualities in spades but so do ALL of their friends and families! I don’t know if I’ve ever laughed and joked around with such a large group of people before in my life. And the notion of twin sisters holding hands couldn’t have been more preposterous… but we got it anyway! lol!!! An amazing energy could be felt flowing out of the Grand Ballroom while the Orchestra performed for a packed the dance floor. It was bittersweet to have to say goodnight. We feel so fortunate to work with some of the BEST COUPLES and their families!!!
Samantha and Andrew, the two of you are so beautiful together and we hope that you love these photos as much as we loved capturing them.
#dontyouaDORIS
The Wedding Day Team:
Wedding Ceremony + Reception Location: The Ritz-Carlton Cleveland @RitzCarlton
Floral Designer: Plantscaping
Desserts: Cleveland Vegan @ClevelandVegan
Entertainment: The Orchestra @CLEMusicGrp
Makeup Artists: Lisa Adams
Bride’s Attire: Lazaro from Matina’s Bridal @MatinasatEton
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Bella Bridal