Real Wedding Photography: Capturing Diverse Love Stories from Around the Globe
Wedding photography is about documenting chic weddings and love stories through various lenses and styles. Whether it is logical and detailed or filled with crazy ideas, every couple brings a unique perspective to their day. Below are stories of couples who focused on their differences and influenced each other in positive ways to create unforgettable celebrations.
The Rustic Charm of Old Forest School: Ivy and Stanley
Stanley and Ivy wanted to get married outside of Auckland, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Stanley and I are quite different which can be challenging; he is logical and detailed, whereas my mind is filled with crazy ideas, Ivy shares. They both love nature and wanted their wedding to have that rustic, “untouched” feeling, so they arranged to visit Old Forest School to see how it would feel as a venue in autumn.
When they arrived, they were blown away; the venue was filled with copper, plum and rust red tones, and there was a warmth from the sunset that filled them with happiness. Having no cell phone coverage at the venue became a real bonus – ‘disconnect to reconnect’! Their guests were able to put their technology aside and simply enjoy spending quality time together. To document this, they chose Courtney Horwood Photography to capture the day.
Urban Elegance at The Logan Hotel: Ivy and Matt
In a different setting, Ivy and Matt were married at the Logan Hotel and Ballroom in Philadelphia, Pa. Ivy, who owns and runs Lovely Bride in Philadelphia, got a custom Carol Hannah gown made for her wedding. Even though it threatened to rain, the photography team took photos around Philadelphia, down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and at some of the art museums before heading back to the Logan for the ceremony and party.
As their photographer from Love Me Do Photography noted: “I have been so fortunate to be the one to photograph Matt's proposal to her, their engagement shoot, and now their wedding.”
Editorial Style at The Ivy House
This Michigan wedding was a true celebration set on the enchanting grounds of The Ivy House. With its elegant greenhouse, spacious bridal suite, and stunning landscape, the venue was sure to captivate every guest. The details of the day were impeccable. The couple embraced shades of green throughout, with romantic place cards adorned with ribbon, satin ribbon-tied shoes, and a neutral bouquet with hints of blush.
The ceremony took place inside the sunlit greenhouse, which was adorned with lush greenery and florals. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed drinks during the golden hour, taking in the beauty of The Ivy House grounds. The photography was handled by Hayley Moore Photography, an editorial digital + film wedding photographer that travels the globe documenting love stories.
No-Frills Simplicity at Clissold House: Jo and Guney
Jo and Guney were wed at Clissold House– a gorgeous Grade II listed venue in a lovely corner of London. The couple wanted a completely fuss-free day and chose to shun many wedding day traditions to focus instead on simply enjoying precious time with their guests. “All we wanted for our wedding day was good food, lots of booze, good music and simplicity,” they explained. For this beauty of a wedding, they chose to have their day captured by Claudia Rose Carter.
Jo wore a dress made by Ivy and Aster. When the time came to tie the knot, Jo walked down the aisle to the sound of "Yes, Sea of Love" by Cat Power. The photography surpassed their every expectation, capturing a love story that began online and started a new chapter with a romantic proposal.
Wedding Overview and Photography Credits
| Couple | Venue | Location | Photographer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ivy + Stanley | Old Forest School | Bay of Plenty, NZ | Courtney Horwood |
| Ivy + Matt | Logan Hotel | Philadelphia, PA | Love Me Do Photography |
| Jo + Guney | Clissold House | London, UK | Claudia Rose Carter |
| Michigan Couple | The Ivy House | Saugatuck, MI | Hayley Moore Photography |
Common Elements of Wedding Styling
Across these diverse weddings, certain elements helped define the aesthetic and experience:
- Hand-picked Decorations: Creating a personal touch with wildflower centerpieces and designed stationary.
- Nature-Focused Venues: Utilizing sunlit greenhouses or rustic schools to create an "untouched" feeling.
- Meaningful Attire: From custom Carol Hannah gowns to Ivy and Aster lace for an elegant no-frills style.
- Sentimental Heirlooms: Including items like a late Grandfather’s pocket watch or heirlooms dear to the bride’s heart.