8.06.21 Elliottsburg, PA

Ben and Bethany’s engagement session back in April was the first time I met them, and although we were dodging rain showers in a wet orchard that day, we had so much fun I knew their wedding day was going to be amazing! Bethany has such a vivacious and sparkling personality and she just lights up a room wherever she goes, and Ben is a perfect complement to her! 

The bride’s home was buzzing with life when I arrived to begin with details and getting ready photos. Bethany is the oldest of eleven, so she had lots of help and onlookers!

There were so many handmade touches to the day… Bethany grew many of the flowers they used in the bouquet, and her aunt did the arranging. I absolutely loved the burst of color in those bouquets! The bride also made her own dress and it was such an elegant, flowing beauty! Bethany’s sister watercolored the couple’s beautiful invitations, along with a watercolor version of one of their engagement photos that was displayed at the ceremony. 

Underneath a big tree in the backyard they shared their first look.. It was one of the sweetest and most emotional I’ve photographed in awhile! 

We took most of the photos in the woods around Bethany’s home, but we did run to a nearby farm for those willow tree pictures. Actually, it was at my in-law’s place… this wedding was pretty close to home.

At the ceremony, some children handed out smarties along with the programs! Such a fun way to entertain children ( and adults too- you never outgrow smarties 🙂 )

Bethany walked up the aisle with both of her parents, and a few tears were shed as they gave her away to her groom.

The couple read heartfelt personal vows they had written for each other before they were finally pronounced husband and wife.Their joy was written on their faces as they nearly ran down the aisle!

The reception was held in a nearby gym and the white tables were decorated with rows of bud vases holding a kaleidoscope of flowers! The stunning macrame hanging behind the bridal table was made by a sister of the bride.

There was a lineup of entertaining speeches shared by a number of friends and family, and a few songs by a friend’s family and the bride’s family. The sun was already behind a cloud bank by the time we made it outside for sunset photos, but we got a few anyway!

The whole day was such a beautiful one to witness- a reflection of them as a couple and glowing with the love of Christ and family. Ben and Bethany, you two are such an inspiration… Blessings on your marriage!

light +love, Michelle