Dayton Weddings | Echo by Design | Wedding + Portrait Photography

..Jason + Dani | Sugarcreek Metropark Engagement Session..

Jason frequented a Starbucks often to visit friends, and quickly became a favorite customer. I’m not sure if he was coming back for the coffee or to see a certain barista, named Dani. Somewhere between the smell of coffee beans, the hum of the frappuccino machine, and smiles; Dani + Jason became a thing.

For three years they explored life through travel, spending time with family, drinking wine, and endless UD basketball games. {Always UD basketball games.} Jason is a UD grad, and has bled for basketball season. Like every awesome and supportive girlfriend, Dani joined in, and they both love being season ticket holders!

Knowing that life wouldn’t get much better than that, Jason knew that a ring purchase was in his future. Dani’s first Valentine’s Day present to him of assorted “love coupons” sparked the idea for his proposal. He conjured up his plan and set it into motion at his family Christmas this past year. {Almost the exact same way his Dad proposed to his mom over 30 years ago!}

Jason made the “love coupons” and delivered them to Dani. She said, “That’s really sweet, thank you.” Jason replied, “The final coupon is in the tree.” Dani a little reluctant to having to get up and not feeling well, was urged to get the coupon. Dani got herself up off the couch; she opened the coupon and read, “Good for one marriage proposal.” She whirled around from the tree to find Jason on his knee with the ring!!! “I was so off guard, that it took me a minute to say yes!”

Now here they are months later, planning for a beautiful May wedding. Always staying active, they picked the spot where they spend some of their favorite times, Sugarcreek Metropark. It’s filled with beautiful scenery, and there is always something that catches their eye. A place where they could get lost in their thoughts for hours running and watching their every single step. I was thankful they knew their way around and knew exactly what trails to take, because I.was.lost.

Jason + Dani enjoyed each and every moment, and maybe a few sweaty ones in between! We enjoyed some hiking, chatting, and even wrestling Maggie, their 3 year old pup in for a few pictures. We were even blessed with a glimpse of a sunset before it tucked itself back under the clouds! Thankful for such a gorgeous evening, and happy that I could spend it with these two!

Jason + Dani, I could hang out with you all day! Thank you for letting me explore with you! I know that your wedding day is going to be an absolute blast, and I am so happy that I get the opportunity to celebrate it with you!! AND, I wouldn’t mind if there is an endless Starbucks bar if you know what I mean…uh hummm!

..LOVE COUPONS..

love, echo

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echoes of love

..Zach + Cara | Lyman Harbor | Dayton Wedding Photographer..

Heading up towards the lake, clouds loomed overhead dousing the ground with a fresh shower. I was certain that it was going to pass. When we arrived, the leftovers of the storm had moved through, and the radar was in our favor. Inside I met up with Cara, and she whole -heartedly agreed that the weather was going to turn out perfect!

Starting with the guys, Nicole kept them entertained and amused them as they readied. They had no problem keeping the mood light, and did a great job keeping Zach from being nervous! Around the corner, they began to get Cara in her dress. Her slim little shape fit like a glove in her mermaid style gown, while her blonde curls fell over her shoulders.

Outside again, the sky began to clear and the dark clouds moved out. Zach was ready to meet his bride dockside. His face completely lit up as he watched her walk towards him. She waved with tissues in hand, picking up the pace just to get to his embrace. They took a moment and just held each other. When they separated, they laughed and talked about their mornings.

We moved down the dock and I let them soak up their time with each other. The breeze swept across the water, and the faint noise of Cedar Point thrills was heard in the background. The clouds that shrouded the morning skies were no more and were replaced with a perfect blue. Jet skies and boats flew across the endless blue lake, while Zach + Cara paid no attention. They just fell more and more for each other. Each little hair in the face was swept away with a tender touch. Each smile returned with a sweet little laugh from them both.

Guests were beginning to arrive as we were rounding out their portrait session of them together. We moved them in, while seats were being taken. By the time the ceremony began, cloud cover came overhead. It gave everyone a break from the heat, and the good news is there wasn’t any rain. One of Zach + Cara’s best friends, Cory, married them. Their nuptials were exchanged along with their rings. Then, they tied the knot for their unity ceremony, placing it in a wooden keepsake box. After Zach was given permission to kiss his bride, they celebrated with hands in the air and a little bit of groovin’ down the aisle.

After bridal party portraits, introductions, and cake cutting, Cara’s Dad welcomed everyone in. He could barely hold back his tears as he described what it was like to give his final daughter away. Cara’s sister talked about the days when Cara always wished to tag along with her + her friends. She went on to say she knew Cara was going to be a great mom after watching her become an Aunt. Sean, the best man praised Zach for his friendship, and all the years of shenanigans they’ve had together. He toasted to their forever, and mentioned that only Cara could match Zach’s humor for life.

Zach + Cara no doubt had an eventful reception. From their entrance and flip cup competition to the end of the night dancing and drinking festivities, they knew how to party. To say this story is well over due is an understatement, but I am so happy to finally be sharing it for everyone that deserves the re-cap. It was a wonderful day and I toast to the beautiful bride + groom one year later! If you want to hear the full story why it had been delayed, scroll to the end. {Oh, and grab some tissues.}

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Sadly, just days before their wedding I received unfortunate news that my husband’s grandparents were in a terrible accident. His grandpa didn’t make it, and it left grandma in the hospital with a broken back, cracked ribs, and a host of other things. Even through the craziness of the uncertain, I promised Zach + Cara that I would still give them the best of me on their day. It was incredibly harsh news and undoubtedly put my mind away from giving Zach + Cara their wedding day blog.

In the weeks that followed, Grandma was slowly moved to a rehab facility. There she was going through daily therapy sessions, when her therapist recognized her story. My sweet Cara, the beautiful bride that I had photographed just days after the accident, was treating Grandma. When she texted me, tears came streaming down my face by the dozens, because I knew she was in perfect hands.

I couldn’t believe it. I still cry at just the thought of how God moved to make their two paths cross. Not knowing just how Grandma was doing {she can be kind of stubborn,} Cara encouraged me with how strong she was and mentioning, She is a fighter. Cue endless tears….still to this day. Grandma is and has been a fighter this last year. I am SO beyond grateful that Cara was only one of the caring hands that touched her through her recovery, and I will never forget her kind gestures during such a horrific time in our life. I had to share, because it shouldn’t go unnoticed.

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Zach + Cara, thank you SO much for being ever so patient with me through all of this. Waiting for your images, your album design, and your beautiful blog post. Harsh realities of last week were opened like fresh wounds, and you have just been so understanding and sweet. I hope your first year of marriage challenged you in so many ways. They say the first year is sometimes the hardest, and if you can make it through that, well…bring on the kids 😉 In all seriousness, I pray that God brings you many more years of joy, laughter, and a rollercoaster ride of journeys! You’ve already made career changes and a move, so bring on year two and always keep this day in your memory.

..UNNOTICED..

love, echo

::Vendor Love::

..Venue.. | Lyman Harbor

..Event Coordinator.. | Your Perfect Day

..Brides Dress.. | Abbott’s Bridal

..Bridesmaid Dresses.. | Atlas Bridal

..Mens Tuxes.. | JoS. A. Bank

..Officiant.. | Cory Panning

..Florist.. | Your Perfect Day

..DJ.. | Ultimate Nights

..Cake Artist.. | The Sweet Retreat

..Linens.. | Your Perfect Day

..Wedding Shoes.. | Converse

Echo by Design Wedding Photography is based in Dayton, Ohio. Also serving Cincinnati, Columbus, and Destination Weddings worldwide.

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..Caleb + Sarah | The Willow Tree | Dayton Wedding Photographer..

Caleb + Sarah are celebrating their 1 year anniversary this weekend!! I can hardly believe it has almost been 365 days since their beautiful wedding at ..The Willow Tree.. in Tipp City. The flowers from ..The Ivy League.. meshed with the beautiful design from ..Elizabeth Events.. which made it a day that no one would forget.

After arriving to Caleb’s hotel room, I entered into them enjoying one of their favorite brews. His casual smile and relaxed attitude added to the usually simple task of photographing the groom getting ready. Not to mention the jokes that Caleb’s son was pulling out in the background.

I then took off to join Sarah and capture her finishing touches at The Willow Tree. With her hair pinned up and putting the last bits of her makeup on, she already looked so beautiful! After capturing the details of everything that was going to adorn her, and while a small storm blew through, Sarah slipped into her gown. She felt like a fairy tale, and her presence just glowed as such.

Heading out to the first look, Caleb + Sarah were both visibly excited. Her maids escorted her to the edge of the bridge, holding up her dress while the humidity dried out the grass. On the other side, Caleb waited, rocking back and forth from heel to toe. Sweating hands in his pocket, he felt her touch on his shoulder. Their infectious smiles took over and they laughed together, happy to be at each other’s side.

We took some time and enjoyed portraits with the two of them. Letting them chat over their morning, the smell of their amazing flowers {which the bees + butterflies enjoyed too}, and being thankful the rain moved in and out fast! Someone was already wiping off the chairs, as the ceremony was nearing and guests were beginning to arrive.

The sun began to pop out and sat perfectly in the sky as the ceremony music began to play. Sarah + her Dad’s entrance was so sweet as Caleb fought back tears. After handing Sarah over, Caleb took his bride and made her his forever. With the veil blowing in the wind, they exchanged vows, rings, and their kiss. Proud as ever, Caleb + Sarah exited as husband + wife!

In the barn, lights strung overhead with delicate chandeliers. Glass balls filled with led candles were strung from the fern covered ladder, setting the tone while the floral table box aroma took over the room. The chiavari chairs and grand table design layout worked perfectly to maximize the space for guests to eat, drink, and mingle comfortably.

Their reception crowd took every piece of it in and waited patiently while the bridal party had just a little bit of fun. After the bride + groom’s grand entrance, they took a moment to greet some of their guests. They rolled into toasts that left everyone in laughter, tears, and overall basking in the thankfulness of the two families joined in the room. Dinner, cake, and then dancing quickly took over and the night forever went down ingrained in their memory. And it was perfect in every way!

This post has been on my mind for a year!! Sadly, just days after their wedding I received unfortunate news of a sudden death in the family. It was incredibly harsh news and undoubtedly put my mind away from giving Caleb + Sarah their wedding day blog. The weeks and months that followed that first tragic death, only led to 5 more in a 6-month span. For my sanity and to put my anxiety at ease, I decided to put blogging on hold until I was able to regain my ability to write again. I have so much joy in my life from capturing these moments, and as beautiful as they all were at the time, blow-after-blow I was struggling to find joy in the midst of all the pain.

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Caleb + Sarah! This first year of marriage has already brought so much! I hope you are enjoying your Texas home, your new lovable pup, and your wonderful jobs! I pray that through re-living this wonderful day, you are filled with the unending joy that you felt on that lovely August afternoon! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to capture your day, and most importantly, giving me grace in my largest time of need! Happy 1 Year Anniversary and I pray that God blesses you with SO many more!

..ONE YEAR DOWN A MILLION TO GO..

love, echo

::Vendor Love::

..Venue.. | The Willow Tree

..Event Coordinator.. | Elizabeth Events

..Brides Dress.. | Wendy’s Bridal

..Bridesmaid Dresses.. | Nordstrom

..Mens Tuxes.. | JoS. A. Bank

..Officiant.. | Perry Carlisle

..Florist.. | The Ivy League

..DJ.. | Accent Entertainment

..Cake Artist.. | Ele Cake Co

..Linens.. | Prime Time Party Rental

Echo by Design Wedding Photography is based in Dayton, Ohio. Also serving Cincinnati, Columbus, and Destination Weddings worldwide.

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echoes of love

..Eric + Emma | Kelleys Island Wedding..

Her mom braided her hair that morning just as she did when Emma was a little girl. The perfect blonde braid cascaded down around her shoulder, after being adorned by a delicate gold leaf hairpiece. The final touch was her handmade veil with a piece of her mother’s wedding dress on the comb. Lisa so proud to put it in its place.

In the next room over, Eric and his guys were putting on their ties and lacing up their shoes. Enjoying some relaxing moments and watching the U.S. PGA Open Championship.

We then began to head to the other side of ..Kelleys Island.. for their first look. Eric + Emma had visited just weeks before to pick out the most perfect spot. A hidden trail that Emma + her sister’s rode their bikes on as kids. Eric and I began the 15-minute trek through the mud and mosquitos. The rainy weather that we had been getting sure wasn’t playing in our favor, and I was praying that Emma would make it safely to our destination.

When we hit the edge of the island, the cliffs were beautiful. The tide was high, and waves came against the side in angry but glorious crashes. The weatherman predicted that there could be a spotty chance of rain all day, but the haze looked like it was trying to lift. Silent prayers were being spoken against the rain as I enjoyed the diffused light.

While we were getting Eric in the perfect spot, Emma made her entrance around the corner. Lifting her tulle A lined dress just high enough to manage keeping it out of the water setting on top of the cliff rocks. As she carefully approached, Eric took a moment to enjoy the view. Listening and waiting ever so patiently. Emma walked around him and came and stood in his line of vision. His adorable little smirk turned into the best smile. They hugged each other and reveled over each other’s attire.

They walked to the edge of the cliff and enjoyed everything that they came to Kelley’s Island for. It felt like I was in a movie as I captured every little detail while the waves came splashing up in perfect harmony with my shutter. They snuggled close and a wave came almost too close. We moved in a little farther and I watched Eric just melt as Emma whispered into his ear. They laughed softly together; talking quietly while the rest of the world couldn’t hear a single murmur. They were enjoying the time they had with just the two of them.

Then Annie, the MOH, came with the long awaited kite. Emma had emailed me about her vision to fly the kite on the coast. But she was having trouble finding her perfect red heart kite. Already seeing her vision, I had images dancing in my head. I quickly went to work on ..Google.. and found it within a few minutes! {Love you Google!} I squealed with joy when I emailed Emma back that I had found it! So now that it was in our hands, and having the most perfect wind to lift it in the sky, it took off. Eric shouted out, I haven’t flown a kite since I was a kid. I watched as their inner kid spirit let out, and the kite’s size reflected their exploding hearts.

We heard the sound of the bridal party erupt from behind me. Laughing through tears about their walk through the woods. Eric + Emma joined them to hear all that had happened. Small slips on the journey left the girls trying to wash up their feet in the water. But that was just the beginning. After several portraits, I was setting up for a final bridal party pose, when this monsoon wave came out of nowhere. We were pretty far from the water’s edge, but it was one of those moments that happen in total slow mo. Waaaattttccchhhhhhhh ooooouuuuuutttttt. And the shouts of shock in the aftermath sent Eric + Emma to whirl around from their spot to see their friends partly covered from the splash! I desperately wish my camera wasn’t on my hip and I had gotten the whole thing just for memory’s sake. Thankfully for being on “Island Time,” we had plenty of time to get them back to their rooms to dry off and freshen up before the ceremony.

The ceremony was as simple as simply wonderful could get. Two tiny rows of chairs for parents and grandparents set the stage on the water’s edge. The aisle lined with staked flowers left the rest of the grass open for the {mostly} chairless ceremony. Eric + Emma were blessed to be married by Emma’s sister, Allison. Both of their Mom’s had special readings, and then after exchanging rings, Allison pronounced them man + wife. Walking down the aisle they were showered in lavender, which left the aroma floating in the breeze.

While we went on to grab some portraits on the dock, Eric + Emma’s friends + family were greeted with sweet touches all around. They found their seats by their drinking glass that had a handmade wooden tab with their name and table number on the back made by the Father of the Bride. Growlers from all around Ohio were part of the centerpieces, adding in the simple leafy arrangements for the perfect touch. Each guest plate had a specially wrapped embroidered napkin with the new Mr. + Mrs. initials ranging in color. Emma’s sister, Hannah painted a beautiful portrait of the island for guests to sign on land or sea. And the couple’s favorite ..Winan’s.. coffee was ready for an after dinner and cake treat.

The reception at ..Kelleys Island Brewery.. was well underway when Eric + Emma arrived, and after being introduced, it was the most laid back reception I’ve ever been to! I’ve never had so much fun just watching people generally enjoy themselves in a relaxed atmosphere. It truly was a day on island time and I loved absolutely every minute of it!

Eric + Emma, you couldn’t have asked for a better day!! I believe whole-heartedly that your mantras of going slow, eating, reveling in the day, and being solely on island time were accomplished! Now it’s time to remember your day and always reflect back on it. Marriage is wonderful and you both have such awesome families to lift you up when needed, encourage you both in the good days and bad, and celebrate with you in all the good things to come!! I wish you both the best, congratulations again, and THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to capture your breath-taking and simple day!

..ISLAND TIME..

love, echo

::Vendor Love::

..Hotel.. | Kelleys Island Venture Resort

..Officiant.. | Allison Swanger – Bride’s Sister

..Venue.. | Kelleys Island Brewery

..Brides Dress.. | Allure Bridal

..Mens Tuxes.. | DKNY

..Florist.. | The Flowerman

..Cake Artist.. | MaryKay Oakleaf

..DJ.. | The Class Act

Echo by Design Wedding Photography is based in Dayton, Ohio. Also serving Cincinnati, Columbus, and Destination Weddings worldwide.

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echoes of love

..Joe + Elizabeth | Dayton Masonic Center..

The last three weddings I’ve photographed someone special has been missing, and this day was no different. Elizabeth’s Grandmother passed away last year after fighting her battle with Parkinson’s disease. It was especially hard on Elizabeth knowing that she wasn’t going to be there on her wedding day. So she thought anyways. Upon realizing that a savings account had been set up for her, she chose to use her Grandmother’s gifting towards her wedding dress. When she was out dress shopping, she excitedly said yes to the dress and went to pay at the register. She went into shock and tears when the cost of her dress equaled the exact amount her Grandma saved. I mean…what are the odds? Seriously!!

So when I walked into Elizabeth’s hotel room and saw the dress, I knew it was a special one. It was absolutely beautiful and I knew it was perfect for her in every way.

It was exciting watching Elizabeth + Joe get ready that morning. As I watched her slip that extra special dress on and then Joe tear up from Elizabeth’s note, I knew it was going to be a good day! A preparation that was long overdue and very anticipated. The day was finally here after 11 years of being together. Just kids then, they were both more than ready to see each other and even more so to be married.

We moved over to ..University of Dayton.. campus to set up the perfect spot. I don’t think Joe could have been any more anxious. He would have paced back and forth waiting for Elizabeth if I would have let him. Elizabeth finally arrived and walked ever closer; the moment they had been waiting for was under way. I watched as those seconds of her touching his shoulder became a memory, and the anxiety instantly left Joe’s body. He melted into perfect oblivion and they held each other close. Tears ready to pour, they laughed, smiled, and showed each other their dress. I loved when Joe pulled up his pants and showed off his OSU dress socks!

After portraits at UD, we headed over to the Masonic Center for a few more portraits + a wedding!! The Templar’s room was hosting the ceremony and it was amazing watching the emotion of Joe + Elizabeth as they became one. He couldn’t stop looking at her and both of them fought back tears as they vowed themselves to each other forever. Then the desperately long awaited words, I now pronounce you husband + wife. Joe you may kiss your bride, and Elizabeth you better kiss him back!

As cocktail ended on the 2^nd level, Joe + Elizabeth entered in on the bottom level for their first dance. With the lights turned down low, in the middle of the spot light, they swayed back and forth. Holding each other so close, and in their hearts even closer. It’s that feeling when your heart is so beyond happy that it could explode. I think theirs was to that point. Everyone watched from above and then after the dance concluded, they moved down to their seated tables.

After officially being announced in, they started toasts. Elizabeth’s father acknowledged Joe’s Dad who passed away from cancer, saying, Jim Kinzig is out there with his classic smile looking down and thinking how proud he is of his son. He continued on to welcome Joe to the family. It’s kind of funny because he’s been hanging around for 10 years. It was a constant tear jerker that immediately took you back to laughter! It wasn’t any different from Elizabeth’s sister Erica, I know everyone in this room at some point has asked, “So when are you getting married?” Laughter erupted because honestly 11 years is a long time and warrants that kind of questioning. She went on through choked up tears to say, Their love story is a unique one and I’m blessed to be a witness to it. Emily, Elizabeth’s other sister mentioned this, I don’t think there is a question from anyone in this room, that these two were meant to be together. Back to laughter when Joe’s brother stated, I can’t believe it’s official now. You guys are married. It seems like you’ve been married for years already.

As you can imagine I had to pull myself together. Luckily we broke for dinner and enjoyed the rest of the evening’s events.

At the end of the night, I hugged Joe + Elizabeth goodbye. I couldn’t help but get a little teary eyed, thanking them for letting me capture their day. I looked at them and said, I know how this feels! Finally, you are each other’s forever! I wish I could remember everything else, but because I have that commonality, I knew it was coming from the heart. I watched as both of them joined me with tears and we went in for a group hug!

Joe + Elizabeth, I adore you. Your day couldn’t have been any more bittersweet, and I hope you remember it for a lifetime. Watching every moment from getting ready in the morning until the end of the night, I knew you guys were destined to be together. I wish you the happiest of lifetimes and I know you are going to make it the most that it absolutely can be! Blessings on your both forever, and don’t ever forget about me!

..TEAR JERKER..

love, echo

::Vendor Love::

..Hotel.. | Dayton Marriott

..Officiant.. | Reverend Melinda Fossee

..Venue.. | Dayton Masonic Center

..Event Coordinator.. | Fitz the Occasion

..Videographer.. | Studio 58 Media

..Brides Dress.. | Bridal and Formal

..Mens Tuxes.. | Men’s Warehouse

..Florist.. | The Flowerman

..Cake Artist.. | The Cakery

..DJ.. | Everlasting Sounds

Did you miss Joe + Elizabeth’s engagement session?!? View their ..Spring Engagement Session here..! Echo by Design Wedding Photography is based in Dayton, Ohio. Also serving Cincinnati, Columbus, and Destination Weddings worldwide.

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echoes of love