A Rustic Wedding on a Sunny October Day

Larry and Rachel married at Shepherd Farm Barn and Event Center in Bethesda, OH. This was such a beautiful and sentimental day for us because we and Rachel go way back. I have so many fond memories of time spent with her hanging out and goofing off. I even did her senior pictures way back before Cyn Davis Photography was even a thought. I was absolutely thrilled when she chose us to capture her and Larry's wedding and I am so incredibly happy for the two of them. They are perfect together.

The ceremony and reception were held all in one location and we were stunned by how gorgeous the space was. We immediately set out photographing details of the venue while it was undisturbed. After that, we got to capturing candids while Rachel and Larry got ready. S&W Hair Studio did the hair and makeup and did such a wonderful job. Each of the ladies was stunning. Rachel's gorgeous dress was from Universe Bridal and Prom. She was absolutely radiant! Larry and his groomsmen went rustic casual in jeans from Wrangler and dress shirts and vests from Ariat. Before the ladies got dressed, we went outside for a champagne pop and I got sprayed, but it was worth it for their reactions!

After Rachel was dressed, she and her baby sister Josie each had a first look with their dad and family. It was such a beautiful moment. I may have gotten a bit misty-eyed watching their dad's reaction to his beautiful daughters. Definitely one of my favorite moments of the day.

Larry and Rachel held their ceremony in the barn, which was filled with loving family and friends. The space was beautiful and such a fun challenge to light up. We opted for a more moody lighting style to enhance the dark rustic space. The ceremony pictures were probably some of my favorites, both for the chance to do something different and because I got to watch a dear friend get married. They chose to pot a plant together for their unity ceremony. Their mothers came up first to pour soil into the pot and then Lary and Rachel added the plant to the soil, covering the roots. It was such a beautiful moment as their two families became one.

After the ceremony, the couple exited out to a stream of bubbles. I've always liked bubble exits, they exude a certain whimsical quality to the day. Afterward, we headed out for their group and couples portraits, which we did on the property. It was a beautiful sunny afternoon bursting with fall colors and love. We had so much fun with the wedding party and with Larry and Rachel.

After the ceremony and family portraits, DJ Frank Gilbert brought the party and kept the dance floor crowded during the reception. It started with a contest between the wedding attendants to see who could come up with the best intro. Richie and I got to be judges and helped decide who would win $100. It was so much fun. The delicious cake and cupcakes were done by Julie Moore, Donna Clark did the catering, and Cheryl Kennedy and Amanda Franklin were the awesome bartenders for the evening. I can't forget Rebecca Montgomery who was the wedding planner/coordinator. Larry and Rachel were an absolute delight, we loved being there to document their day and the love they share with each other and with their families. They truly are dear to us and we will treasure these moments with them forever.

Many happy wishes to Larry and Rachel!