I knew I was in the correct place when I pulled into the drive and looked out across Julie’s beautiful family farm. In the vegetable garden, the plants were just starting to poke above the ground, with the asparagus having been harvested already. Adjacent to the young plants were chickens quietly clucking through the yard. Inside the old farm house, Julie was getting ready with her family and friends. The sun was shining strong all across Kirtland, near Cleveland, and this was the perfect day for an outdoor Holden Arboretum wedding ceremony.
To keep things easy, Julie and Colin chose to simply use their wedding ceremony and reception locations for photos. We captured beautiful bridesmaids photos right on the farm, followed by the Holden Arboretum wedding ceremony. I happen to a member of Holden Arboretum, a private nature preserve in Kirtland, and I know the property well. Following the ceremony, we took time to stroll the gardens and capture photos of Julie and Colin together. The sun was beginning to set and cast a gorgeous peach-toned glow over the gardens.
The reception was back at the family farm, tucked in-between the barn, gardens and chicken coop. Julie and Colin had setup a huge tent on the back quarter of the farm for the reception dinner. Guests dined and toasts were given surrounded by twinkling lights and good friends. To end the beautiful day, the wedding party danced late into the night in one of the most beautiful barns I’ve ever seen. Julie’s aunt said something to me about her farm property that seemed so wise – “You should make where you live be like where you would vacation – this is mine.” What a wonderful idea! I certainly hope you enjoy the highlights below. To the new Mr. & Mrs. – thank you so much for having me as part of your wedding day. Working with you, however brief, as been a great experience.
