Shelly and Steve’s Whimsical Winter Wedding at Riverdale Manor

From the photographer: Steve and Shelly didn’t even really want a big wedding at all. Even before they got engaged, they spoke about simply heading to the courthouse with a couple witnesses. But once they got engaged and saw all of the excitement and support from friends and family, they knew they had to celebrate with them – not just alone! Their vision for aesthetics was a mixture of simple, soft, delicate, whimsical, and natural. Simple – meaning not being strict on bridesmaids dresses! Shelly wanted them to choose a color, dress, and fabric that made each friend feel amazing! Shelly just gave them the guidelines of “earthy tones” and it worked out perfectly – delicate and soft. For her own dress, Shelly didn’t want anything that was stiff and hard to move in. She wanted flow, a softness, and something whimsical. She found exactly what she was looking for in an elegant and flowing barely blush strapless gown.

Leading up to the wedding, Steve and Shelly were WISHING for a February snow and snow is what they got! Beautiful long icicles hung behind them in the large indoor/outdoor ceremony gazebo as they said their vows. The evergreens were dusted with white and the snow was falling delicately during the photos. It was truly magical, and it leant to the whimsical, nature-based aesthetic they were hoping for. They chose a venue that had lots of natural wood elements and delicious, unique food. The bouquet and centerpieces had mostly greens and eucalyptus. In addition, the centerpieces had delicate candles, wood slabs, and pine cones to pull it all together.