I got to look forward to several personal-to-me weddings this year and Rachel and Justin’s Deep Creek Lake wedding was one of them. On a Saturday morning a few weeks ago I drove out to the mountains of western Maryland to the beautiful Herrington at Deep Creek Lake and got to witness my old Bio Buddy from Hood College marry her love (you might remember that I photographed their proposal at Great Falls last year!). I can’t say enough about how appreciative I am for this job that takes me on these adventures with different people in my life. Watching this woman, whom I spent countless hours sitting next to in lectures and identifying little critters and sharing in our love of nature, on one of the happiest days of her life is such a gift and I’m so thankful.
Rachel and Justin shared a sweet first look at the gorgeous Swallow Falls State Park and then said their I do’s overlooking a pond among the rolling hills. And in true Rachel animal lover fashion, there were even swallows that took off in flight when she stepped onto the bridge that would take her out to where Justin was waiting at the front of the aisle. It was a total Cinderella moment. Awaiting them back in the mansion was their enchanted forest reception full of tables with centerpieces made of moss, ferns, bird nests, and cute animal table “numbers”. Oh…..and mason jars of homemade moonshine. Not quite enchanted forest but who cares 😉 In addition to the moonshine, their friends also made the wine and beer that was served.
It was a fantastic celebration for two even more fantastic people and I can’t think of a more perfect wedding for my old friend. Congratulations Rachel and Justin!! Rachel….there’s a swallow flying!! Rachel’s sister never really got a first dance when she got married so Rachel and Justin surprised her and her husband with a better-late-than-never first dance. It was sooo sweet. The professionals that made this day possible:
Venue: The Herrington
Hair: Hair n Phernalia
Makeup: Lauren Pappas
Flowers: Farmhouse Fete
Photographer: Lauren C Photography
Catering: Harvest Moon Catering
Cupcakes: Megan Cook (fellow Hood alum!)
DJ: Alex O’Neal Entertainment
Officiant: Trevor Frederick (friend of couple)
Ceremony Musician: Dr. Sun Jung Lee
Bridal and Bridesmaids Gown Shop: Bridals by Elena
Suit Rentals: Tuxedo House
Wow, this wedding is really beautiful! I love all of the details at the beginning – the invites are gorgeous and that purple ring is amazing!!! This location is just beautiful and you really captured their love! Beautiful work, Lauren!
Oh my goodness! I am absolutely obsessed with their portraits! I know they will cherish these images forever, Lauren! Beautiful job as always, sweet friend!!
Aww!! Rachel!! You look sooo amazing – that dress is so gorgeous on you! Also, why do those cupcakes look so good?! Need!
Aww!! Rachel!! You look sooo amazing – that dress is so gorgeous on you! Also, why do those cupcakes look so good?! Need!