Dayton Weddings | Echo by Design | Wedding + Portrait Photography

..Richie + Rachel | Nazareth Hall Grotto Wedding..

It’s Ohio. Here lately, she doesn’t quite know what season she is in. Some days it actually feels like summer, and other days it’s more like rain has completely overtaken the warm and dry temperatures.

But Richie + Rachel’s day…their’s was one to go down in the record books! As they each prepared themselves for the first look, everyone’s eyes were on the radar. A band of storms stretching all across the state was headed our way. And they were calling them to be severe.

But Richie + Rachel decided that their outdoor wedding at the ..Nazareth Hall.. grotto was going to precede anyways. No storm was going to put a damper on their day. Rachel was doing some last minute preparations upstairs while I finished up the detail shots of her jewelry and her ..Toms.. wedges. She stated, I’ve been to Guatemala several times, I’ve seen poverty, I love their mission and I love that Tom’s gives back. So I wanted to wear them on my wedding day…and be comfy too!

After they both were dressed, we arranged the first look down near the grotto. Rachel approached slowly, while Richie anxiously grinned and straightened his shirt cuffs. He excitedly called out to Rachel as she neared, I hear you! Rachel smiled as her outstretched arm met his shoulder. Richie casually turned around. I watched his smile turn into the look of, Dang girl! You’re looking fine. He was impressed! It was written all over his face. Rachel giggled, and maybe blushed a little as they pulled each other in and embraced. He kissed her shoulder and she nuzzled in, soaking up each precious moment.

When they were ready, we moved into portraits. Their friends + family joined us near the grotto, and showered them with hugs. We received an update on the radar, t-2 hours until the rain was going to be in the area. It was going to be close. Realllly close. We rounded out the portraits in the grotto, and I was even spoiled with a Lincoln Zephyr on the front grounds!

As guests began to arrive, another look at the radar showed a spot of red coming right towards us. Upstairs the girls prayed over Rachel, while downstairs Richie made the executive decision to start the ceremony early. So family, the bridal party, and eventually Rachel made their way down the hill to the grotto.

The ceremony began and the clouds loomed overhead, while thunder threatened in the distance. Everyone kept looking up, waiting for the skies to unleash. It definitely helped release some of the tension when Pastor Matt asked for the rings. Richie’s dad searched in his pockets, pretending he didn’t have them. He looked down the line as each groomsmen searched theirs as well. Everyone getting a little anxious in the, “uh oh” moment. Finally, at the end of the line everyone realized that a joke had just been played. The groomsmen each took their turn passing Rachel’s ring along, and it was finally passed on with a hug! Each of them taking a huge sigh of relief! As Rachel placed Richie’s ring on his finger, he closed his eyes and took it in. He basked in that moment. It was one of joy, but remembered commitment. I knew he wanted to hear every word and that he wanted to soak them in.

Just as they finished up and began their unity sand, thunder crashed overhead. One drop. Two drop. Liz opened the umbrella for them and stood overhead. Three drops. And then…it stopped!

It completely went over us!! And then just like it was meant to be, the sun came out rejoicing as they were being announced as husband + wife!

After finishing up on the last few portraits, we made our way into the reception. They had such a loud celebratory entrance, as everyone was thrilled to be there {and be dry.} The MOH’s gave their speeches, and Richie’s dad as the best man rounded them out. I believe that those raindrops that fell today, was my Dad letting me know he was with us. So you received a few tears from heaven today.

After dinner, the night was finished off with polka dancing, cake, and the signing of the marriage license. All while the heavens opened up and the rain came pouring down, Richie + Rachel shall be blessed indeed!

Richie + Rachel, I am so blessed. Blessed to have captured your day, and blessed to have witnessed a day like yours. A day that I surely won’t forget. Each drop of rain was so special, and I pray that you bottle that up and remember it forever. Remember there are days of complete sunshine, and there are days when the clouds hold back the rain. But the days to be conquered and remembered are the days when the rain comes crashing down. Hold steadfast and remember this day, the day that you committed yourselves to each other forever! Be blessed!

..TEARS FROM HEAVEN..

love, echo

::Vendor Love::

..Venue.. | Nazareth Hall

..Brides Dress.. | Atlas Bridal

..Bridesmaids Dresses.. | Atlas Bridal

..Mens Tuxes.. | American Commodore Tuxedo

..DJ.. | DJ Diamond Lee

..Cake Artist.. | Cherry Tree Bakery + Cafe

..Florist.. | The Flower Basket

..Officiant.. | Pastor Matt Valentine

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

..Erick + Nora | Sawmill Creek Resort Wedding..

I was so lucky to have met Nora at ..BGSU.. during our college days. We had a mutual friend, and little did I know then what an amazing blessing she would be to me. In those days I was building my photography portfolio and still learning the ropes to the business.

After graduation, I can remember distinctly her message to me, “Hi Echo! There is this new site called ..Pinterest.. and I was just wondering if I could put some of your pictures on it.” I replied, “SURE! All I ask is that you give me credit.” She went on to say how much she had admired my work and how lovely my images were, and she would for sure post my links. {At the time I was completely oblivious to Pinterest and just how awesome it would become!} I knew I had an admirer and hopefully an eventual bride.

Fast forward to June 2013. Nora had so kindly referred her sister to me to photograph her wedding in Brainerd, Minnesota. On my connecting flight to Brainerd, I was patiently waiting along with everyone else to take off, when the flight attendant said we were waiting on a passenger. In rushes this guy, and sits right across the aisle from me, obviously winded from his trek across the airport. Thinking nothing of it, I pulled my computer out for the 20 minutes we were in the air.

When we landed, I went to find my rental car, and collected my baggage. Exiting the airport I ran into Nora, I gave her the biggest hug since I hadn’t seen her in forever!! There standing next to me was the guy our flight waited on. Come to find out that guy was her new boyfriend, Erick! I kind of giggled to myself as we were formally introduced and made our way to the hotel.

Nora + Erick were still pretty new at that point, but Nora always mentioned that I would be her wedding photographer someday. Whenever that may be, she always said. So when I heard of the fantastic news that Erick had proposed one year ago today {July 6^th}, I was elated to hear from her. We don’t know when, where, or how, but we know we want you to be our photographer. Oh.my.heart! I knew I was going to capture her day, but for her to have nothing else planned just made me feel super special!!

They landed on Memorial Day weekend, May 23^rd at ..Sawmill Creek Resort.. on the water’s of Lake Erie. The day was absolutely beautiful and they couldn’t ask for anything better. A cool breeze hit the lakefront and combated the heat of a normal May day. After both Erick + Nora were dressed, we prepared for the first look. While we waited for Nora to show up, Erick and I joked how we met, laughing about it all. He started to tease me saying, I wasn’t quite sure why you got out your laptop for such a short flight. {For the record, once you have kids, every second counts somewhere.} He then tried to bribe me to see a picture of his bride. How much would it take? I replied, $5000 and your wallet. DONE!, he shouted! Sorry! Not that easy, I said. {I think he would have agreed to a million!}

When Nora arrived, he begged me to turn around. I refused and he offered the money again. Nope! No.Can.Do! But the moment was sweet; Nora crossed the bridge, passing by family and friends. Each sound of her heals hitting the bridge more antagonizing than the last for Erick. When she finally met him, and tapped him on the shoulder, he immediately kissed her. Unable to hold back his joy, he hugged her. In that moment, he just couldn’t get enough.

Initially wanting to elope, Erick + Nora chose to have a very simplified day. They chose to not have a bridal party and even kept the ceremony simple and short. By short, I mean short. They laughed about it afterwards, but with the beautiful lakefront in the background and the gorgeous flower arch, it was perfect for them. It was all they needed and they were happy that family + friends chose to be present.

After portraits, and cocktail hour, there was much room to celebrate. They kicked the party off with their first dance followed shortly by toasts. Once Nora’s sister, and Erick’s Uncle finished, Erick addressed everyone. He thanked them for their presence. He mentioned his father who was no longer on this Earth, and how he had shaped him as a man. He then toasted to everyone in the room including his bride, because they were the support system for the marriage that just took place.

After dinner, Arabic music opened up the dance floor and it didn’t take long to fill it. Eventually it was cleared to make way for “Bubz” and Nora. {I’m honorary family, so I’m allowed to call him that too!} I watched them take their moment on the floor. Remembering what Rula had said that morning, Nora is the oldest, I think this will be the hardest for him. He didn’t cry, but I could tell just how proud he was of her. Their moment was sweetly interrupted as Jovie {niece of the bride} yelled out, HI! They both turned towards her and waved back, ending their time with a hug. Erick led his mom to dance, and as I watched her in his arms, I began to tear up. Someday that is going to be me. Someday my baby boy will be bigger than me. Dancing with me. Watching the smiles and yet solemnness cross her face, I knew there was so much emotion there. Because I felt it and I witnessed it. I know that is going to be me someday.

There were so many joyous moments, so much fun that took place, but nothing delights me more than when I can see the emotion in the day. When I can feel it too, without having to force it. And when my clients become friends, and sometimes even like family, I call it even more special.

Erick + Nora! You know exactly how I feel to have been there to witness your special day. I promise that I will be your support system, to help uphold and honor your marriage, and always photograph your special moments! Thank you both for choosing me even before your day or venue was set, the trust you have set in me is like none other. I hope your marriage is rich and blessed!

..SOMEDAY..

love, echo

::Vendor Love::

..Officiant.. | Mike Millenbach

..Venue.. | Sawmill Creek Resort

..Event Coordinator.. | Lisa Wood

..Brides Dress.. | Wendy’s Bridal

..Mens Suit.. | Ticknors

..Florist.. | Downtown Deco

..Cake Artist.. | Jane’s Cakes + Confections

..DJ.. | Ed Murphy

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

..Jordan + Amanda | Rocky River Vineyard Wedding..

Jordan looked up, letting the warm humid wind blow across his face. More than ready to turn around to see his bride. Tears began to well up in his eyes as he heard Amanda walking up behind him in the field. A soft smile crossed his face. Amanda put her dress down, and then prepared herself to tap Jordan on the shoulder. When she reached out, Jordan turned, and they both just finally took their first breath of the day. Relieved, they smiled and embraced through tears of jubilee. From afar, I watched as they just adorned each other. He pulled her in, and they prayed. Quietly, with their heads bowed together, in the middle of the field.

They prayed.

They prayed for everything God blessed them with today, and all the days that are meant to be. With each click of my shutter, I prayed along with them. My whispers hitting the back of my camera, refusing to close my eyes and miss a single second of their quiet innocence.

When they were finished, we moved back toward the bridal party for all of their portraits! The guys showed off their multi-sport socks, and the girls came together for a Pretty Little Liars portrait request. Capturing everything I could squeeze in before the guests began to pull in. Everyone relieved to grab a break from the melting humidity.

The ceremony began and was laid on the backdrop of the ..Rocky River Vineyard.. grounds, accented by the hunter green barn. Family + friends filled the seats as the immediate family was escorted in. Tears began to fall down Jordan’s cheeks as he watched his Mom come towards him. Leaving an empty seat at her side as an ever- present reminder that his Dad could only be there in spirit. The tears didn’t stop falling, and I watched as he lovingly waited for his bride to reach his side. Words couldn’t express those moments. Captivating and pure. Pastor Ryan led everyone in prayer and conducted a beautiful service, uniting Jordan + Amanda as husband + wife in the eyes of God and the laws of North Carolina. They processed out with a fist bump, arms in the air, and a yeah we did it! kind of emotion that exuberated into my camera!

After the remainder of their portraits, the guys knocked it out of the park {pun totally intended,} by bringing in their bride + groom!! It was by far the best announcement entrance I’ve witnessed in my 10 years of shooting weddings. Being HUGE baseball fans, the guys set up a mock ball game, “hitting” a home run right before Jordan + Amanda made their grand entrance.

After being welcomed into their celebratory reception, guests once again took their seats with drinks in hand. They laughed to toasts that said, I’m not the best one to hand out marriage advice. Or, Amanda was certain she didn’t NEED a man. To, I didn’t know what to quite think of Jordan the first time we met him, when he showed up in bedazzled jeans and earrings.

But not much was funnier than when Kory {the brother of the groom}, pulled out a bag of gifts. The funniest gift being a fingerprint kit, Because Amanda was sure to leave plenty of fingerprints everywhere on their first date, JUST in case Jordan decided to kidnap her. Through all the laughs and gentle marriage reminders, he stated, I can’t help but say that this wasn’t my speech to give tonight. {Cue instant tears…myself included.} Jordan had asked his Dad to be his best man, and although God’s plan took him home sooner than anticipated, Kory mentioned, I know he would tell you how proud he is of you and how lucky to have found Amanda. The toasts ended with clanking glasses, tears for his best man in heaven, and a kiss to his beautiful bride.

Just when you thought the night couldn’t get any more sweet, the couple had a family friend + artist, ..Jared Emerson.. from The Jared Collection join them on the dance floor for a special performance painting. As Jordan + Amanda slipped into their first dance, Jared began to paint. His fingers graced the black canvas as he bounced back and forth to his rhythmic style. Jordan + Amanda spun so slowly on the dance floor, as their image began to appear on the canvas, Everything by Michael Buble playing in the background. As their song transitioned into something a little more upbeat, Jared continued to paint. All the guests sat and watched in awe, phones + cameras in hand to be sure to capture the amazing art that was being perfected right in front of their eyes. And after several minutes, Jared dipped his fingers in the mint paint, placed Jordan’s bow tie around his neck and then put his signature handprint in the top right hand corner. Viola! The couple kissed and profusely thanked Jared for their one-of-a-kind piece of art.

After dancing, cake from Jordan’s grandpa, and more dancing, it was time to say goodbye to the newlyweds! Jordan + Amanda left for the evening to their guests sending them off with a glow stick tunnel. They proceeded to race away in the wet dewey grass, as everyone cheered them on.

Jordan + Amanda! You have no idea how unbelievably blessed I felt to join you on your wedding day! It was truly filled with amazing moments, and I hope you continue to bask in the love from that day till the end of your days together! As you know, tomorrow is never promised to us, and I charge you to live in each moment because they pass so quickly! So many congratulations as I continue to pray that you keep God at the very center of your marriage! Thank you for your friendship and many blessings to you always!

..BEST MAN IN HEAVEN..

love, echo

::Vendor Love::

..Hotel.. | Hampton Inn

..Officiant.. | Ryan Day

..Venue.. | Rocky River Vineyards

..Brides Dress.. | David’s Bridal

..Mens Suits.. | JCPenny

..Florist.. | The Petal Shoppe

..Cake Artist.. | Ted Beighle – Groom’s Grandfather

..Live Artist.. | Jared Emerson

..DJ.. | Daryl Chesse

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 | Beavercreek Sweethearts..

Lets rewind to 11 years ago!!! Elizabeth was 12 and Joe was 13, and they were in 7^th grade. Joe recalls, Elizabeth and I began speaking to each other on AOL Instant Messenger before we ever actually met in person. We began chatting fairly often online and saw each other in school, but never talked in person. Elizabeth stated, We were both too shy. Even after their first face-to-face meeting at a Beavercreek High School football game. Elizabeth remembered, I don’t really remember what we talked about that night, but I remember Joe’s infectious smile, and that I thought he was cute.

The AOL Instant Messages continued until they discovered that they lived just down the street from each other. They started taking walks through their neighborhood and became really great friends– Even though we dated other people until late into our 8^th grade year.

Somewhere in this mix, Joe realized he was missing something. Something that was right in front of him the whole time. He asked her to go to a movie, and Elizabeth didn’t think much of it. Right before the movie started, he asked if I would be his girlfriend. After a few seconds, I said yes, clearly unaware of what our relationship would turn into.

Nine years later, after high school, college graduation, and a move to Findlay, he was ready to pop the question. Everything they had been through and everything that was left to conquer together, he wanted it to be her alongside him! After I mustered the courage to ask her Dad for his blessing, I finally asked Elizabeth to marry me.

Joe pulled off the most perfect proposal on New Year’s Eve 2013. We had already made plans to go to Columbus that night to ring in the New Year with some friends. We each decided to take a half-day off at work, so we had a little extra time to get to Columbus from Findlay. After Elizabeth missed a few calls from Joe, she called him back and said she would be home soon. I thought it was weird he was so anxious to know when I would be home, but I figured he was just excited to get to Columbus.

When I got home, I walked into our apartment to find a bunch of lit candles and “Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton playing on repeat in the background. Which ironically had popped up throughout the course of their relationship, so of course she found this humorous.

Further into the apartment Joe had placed notes with two rings that he bought her in High School. Each had notes attached, and after reading them, I knew he was proposing for sure. Around the corner Joe waited for her. Relieved to finally see her. He had the engagement ring, and slightly caught off guard, Elizabeth said yes!! She sighed, He did a great job hiding that he had been planning the proposal. Needless to say, We had a great night in Columbus celebrating the New Year and our engagement!

Joe + Elizabeth!! You know I absolutely adore your story, as it is so crazy similar to my own!! So excited to be joining you for your wedding, and I know that we are going to have a blast! Maybe even Wonderful Tonight will find it’s way into the day 🙂

P.S. The thought of AOL Instant Messenger makes me feel old!

..BE MY GIRLFRIEND..

love, echo

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echoes of love

..Patrick + Lydia | OSU Blackwell Wedding..

Patrick and Lydia’s life together started on a blind date at ..Matt the Millers.. in Columbus. They knew it was love when they went to a Brown’s vs. Steeler’s game and cheered for opposite teams. Both of them loved to travel, be outdoors, and had a mutual love for Japanese. Taking a stroll one day in the neighborhood park, Patrick took the ring he bought her and carried it safely in his pocket. He planned on asking somewhere along the way. That was until Lydia derailed his plan when she ran into friends and started up a conversation! After returning back to her house, he proposed right in the living room.

Fittingly, both being OSU graduates, they chose to share their nuptials at ..The Blackwell.. on the campus of ..OSU..!! They wanted to have a short engagement and started planning almost immediately for their big day. They had a lot to do between wedding plans, putting a house on the market, and consolidating both of their homes into one.

Their family was ecstatic, namely Lydia’s brother and sis-in-law, Ben + Sarah. I photographed their wedding 4 years prior, and Lydia followed their lead and contacted me!! But just a few weeks later, Sarah suddenly passed away. Shattering the family, her friends, and me. Sarah wasn’t only a client of mine, she was a dear friend, and one I owe my family life to. She is the reason my husband and I are together, and I am so thankful for the time I was blessed to call her my friend and match-maker.

Over the months of planning, Lydia and I bonded both in grieving and through the joyous planning of her wedding. That week of the wedding she had come down with a nasty cold and was doing everything possible to fight off the feeling for her big day. She messaged me the day before to let me know she was feeling much better and the antibiotics were working.

I arrived at Lydia’s suite the morning of the wedding and as I said hello, her Mom, Susan instantly broke out into tears. I had done everything up to that point to try to hold all the tears in, it had been 4 months since Sarah passed. The realization of knowing she was a big part of why I was there that day, hit me hard. I was thankful for hugs and offered tissues. I took a deep breath and watched as the rest of the morning unfolded.

Downstairs, guests were beginning to arrive for their ceremony. Where they had many Celtic details and traditions sprinkled throughout. Such as the wedding knot, which represents eternal love. Patrick + Lydia also chose to have the ceremony seating and altar in a circular configuration, masking a custom of being within a circle and claiming unity with God. The flowers reflected the Irish flag, while her engagement ring, a peridot, represents love and prosperity. Wedding bells, white ribbons, and an angel, signified celebration and memories of those who have passed on. Especially our dear Sarah.

As Patrick + Lydia joined each other at the altar, their family looked on. Joyous. Lydia’s Uncle greeted everyone and began the ceremony. He shared a sweet story of how Patrick’s mom always wished that he would become a Priest. Pastor Phil reminded her that he would someday, because it was his responsibility to raise their future children to know and love God. He also reminded them of the unending love, the one that is eternal and has no bounds. With that, they vowed to love each other forever, placed the symbolism of rings on each of their fingers, and sealed it with a kiss!! He presented them as husband + wife, and we rode off into the sunset to Ohio Stadium 😉

Emotions were high at the stadium as Ben ran a victory lap for his beloved angel. Tears welled up in everyone’s eyes as we just took it all in. I had never been in the stadium before, and I was pretty stoked for the opportunity. We took portraits in the block “O” and even had a little fun with the guys running out of the tunnel. With it being such a chilly day, I sent the girls back to the hotel to get warm. Patrick + Lydia and I were headed off for some gorgeous light on one of the ramps! I had fired off a few shots when Patrick told me that Lydia was feeling really dizzy and nauseous. She wanted me to continue, but I knew that was not the best option. It didn’t matter how much I wanted to get them up in the bleachers or in front of the stain glass windows, we needed to get Lydia warm!! We flagged her brothers down, got the gate keeper, and rushed her back to the hotel to regain her body temperature. After several minutes she finally felt good enough to join their party.

The reception had it’s own set of details. A live band, table newsletters, and plenty of treats including buckeye’s. But the most special treat of the night was when Lydia surprised Patrick with a guest appearance from Brutus. OSU’s most beloved nut! He was a hit and he rocked the dance floor, selfies, and even joined in with the band. The night was one that was worth celebrating for sure!

Patrick + Lydia! Thank you so much for allowing me to photograph your gorgeous day. I was so honored to celebrate with you, cry with you, and party with you! I know that you guys are going to be great together. And although I may have been absent-minded enough to wear “Wolverine” colors…GO BUCKS!! May God bless your marriage for years to come and may you hold on to the love that you shared on this day and all the days that follow!!

..CELTIC TRADITIONS..

love, echo

::Vendor Love::

..Venue.. | The Blackwell

..Event Coordinator.. | Marissa Tom

..Brides Dress.. | Wendy’s Bridal

..Mens Tuxes.. | Romanoff’s Classic Tuxedos

..Officiant.. | Pastor Phillip Bickel, Uncle of the Bride

..Florist.. | Chapel Hill Florist

..Band.. | The Moonbats

..Cake Artist.. | Carol Krieg

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