Category Archives: Columbus OH wedding Photographer

Nationwide Hotel Edgewater Wedding

It was early March at the cusp of spring when Kelly and Adam said “I do” in the heart of Downtown Westerville, Ohio. Their beautiful ceremony took place at the Church of the Messiah. I love shooting there because the towering stained glass windows and candles that illuminate the center aisle-way are romantic and always inspire me as a photographer. I think Kelly and Adam felt the same way because they specially requested some photos with the windows as the backdrop.

Kelly’s dress was just perfect for her. It was form-fitting at the top and gradually cascaded downward. She topped it off with the most beautiful lace shell. My favorite part was how she finished the look with a long necklace which you don’t see very often. It made her look both vintage and modern at the same time- that necklace brought an unexpected cool factor in my book.

In March the sun sets early so we shot portraits in downtown Westerville instead of traveling around the city. I’m so glad we did too because the sun was low and warm in the sky and made for some pretty dreamy photos. It was admittedly pretty cold and Kelly and Adam were both really great sports to go along with all of our ideas. From downtown Westerville, we made our way over to Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center in Lewis Center, Ohio. The facility had just renovated their Edgewater room and Kelly and Adam’ss wedding was the first to ever be held in the new facility, and boy it didn’t disappoint. Everything was pristine, fresh and stunning. The evening light flooded through the windows and made the whole room feel romantic. The new ceiling beams added a rustic charm and the new paint and finishes offer a more modern and clean look. This new space is everything I hoped it would be as a photographer!

Kelly and Adam’s friends and family gave some great speeches- including Adam’s confirmation of being a Steelers fan now, whether he likes it or not. Later on the dance floor, the men of the room surprised everyone with an all-out on the floor booty shake and roll dance. I’ve been to tons of weddings and never seen this before but it was amazing! I hope you enjoy this wedding today! It was such an honor to meet these two and get to know them over the last few months. Love always, Jess

2017 Best of Weddings

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Here is the post I’ve waited all of 2017 to write!!! Along with featuring photos from my 25 couples whose weddings I was lucky enough to photograph this year, I also wanted to share some business side goals that I had for 2017 and where I want to go for 2018!

2017 was my 9th season as a professional wedding photographer. I used it as a rebuilding year in that I updated a ton of gear including my computer. I worked on streamlining operational flow and reassessing products, brand, and imagery. I have always cherished my network of other local photographers, but this past year we all banded together in monthly meetings to critique, evaluate and lift up each other’s businesses. The experiences I’ve drawn from these meetings have been invaluable. There is so much talent in the greater Columbus area!

I had a few goals this year- one was to become the blogging overlord of Columbus. I would say I still have a ways to go in attaining that title, but I did smash all of my previous years’ blogging numbers. Why was this important to me? I firmly believe that every shoot I take deserves to be showcased. While I fell short of this goal by a few shoots, I truly love all the people who I get to meet, even if I’m just spending an hour with them. I absolutely love writing about the little nuances and experiences that made each shoot uniquely them.

in 2018, I want to share not only my shoots and photography but a little more about myself as well. This means being more vulnerable on a public platform and sharing more of my WHY – WHY I’m in photography, WHY I shoot the way I do, WHY I’m so excited about this business.

So without further ado, I’m so excited to share these incredible moments with you today. I always try to make my blog posts short enough so it doesn’t feel like you’re scrolling through endless photos, but today no such luck. There were far too many to narrow down! Thank you to all of these couples, the photographers who second shot for me, the vendors who kept the days running smoothly and to the network of family and friends I’ve been able to grow year after year through this magical journey. XO Jess

Le Meridien Columbus, The Joseph New Years Wedding

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I’m so excited to share this magical wedding today!! New Years Eve weddings have a special place in my heart. I love the challenge the darker and colder time of year presents. As a photographer, you really get to test the extent of your creativity and lighting options! The day itself is not only exciting because two in-love people are getting married, but because it is also an evening of renewed beginnings, excitement, and love- what I would consider the true definition of marriage to be. This wedding was especially wonderful because there were multiple other couples there who had also been married on NYE. The feeling in the room was just electric all day.

The entire event happened at Le Meridien Columbus, The Joseph- the beautiful new modern boutique hotel in the Short North. The hotel has a special Spa Suite just for the bridal party to get ready in. It has stunning floor to ceiling windows and a clean, cosmopolitan aesthetic. The groom and groomsmen got ready in the suave Presidential Suite which had sweeping views of snow-covered downtown Columbus.

Lauren and Roger started their celebration together with a first-look on the second floor of the hotel, a light airy gallery that was warm and perfect considering it was 17 degrees outside. As Roger turned around to see how stunning Lauren looked, he was overcome with emotion and wiped a couple tears away. It was the absolute sweetest and most genuine reaction. The two of them just stood there savoring the moment as the busy world passed by them on the streets below.

From the hotel, we braved the cold and took a few photos in front of the courthouse gavel, an homage to the fact Roger is a successful attorney. From there we stopped by the newly renovated LeVeque hotel, the downtown Hilton, and then back to the Joseph for their family photos, ketubah signing, and ceremony.

The ceremony room was intimate and warm with a romantic white draped huppah and an aisleway lit with romantic floating candles adorned with overflowing white flowers. The rabbi had the most amazing singing voice which added exponentially to the beautiful spiritual experience.

After the ceremony, it was time to let loose and celebrate! All the guests were dressed in the most stunning evening gowns. It was so much fun to photograph. The ballroom at the Joseph is understated modern- meaning it’s just the perfect space to transform for any occasion. Every table was overflowing with white floral arrangements by Dalay Ket. A grand cake fit for royalty was stationed at the end of the dance floor in a place of honor. Short North Piece of Cake were the artists behind this stunning edible creation. The whole party was elevated by having a live band, The Company Band, that quite literally rocked the house. It was pure joy for not only the happy couple but all of the guests as well. When the clock struck midnight, confetti cannons showered everyone on the dance floor along with champagne toasts and vibrant cheers! The whole event was expertly planned by both by Bobbie Izeman and Lauren, and The Joseph knocked it out of the park. I just love looking at these photos- they make me smile ear-to-ear thinking about how much of a fun blur everything was. Thank you so much, Lauren and Roger for giving me the honor of being with you on this incredible day!! XO, Jess

Dock 580 Loft Wedding

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I have been excited about this wedding all year long. Not only was it the one that I consider the last of my regular fall wedding season, but it was also the most personal to me and my family. My husband Scott and I have been so blessed to get to know Alyssa, Jeff and her family over the past two years. They have truly become an extension of our little family- through thick and thin. I couldn’t think of any couple more special in our life and I’m so honored to have been here on this day as they started a new chapter in their lives together.

The day started relaxing and getting ready in separate homes. I was with Alyssa and my second shooter Katie was with Jeff. Over on our side of the process, there were so many laughs, doggie hugs, and even some pretty awesome dance moves!

Next, it was time to go to their church, Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church. Alyssa and Jeff privately said their hand-written vows to each other as they held hands around a corner before the ceremony. Very rarely does this happen, but they made me quietly cry behind my camera. It was such a personal and intimate moment, that as a photographer I am lucky enough to witness. It’s in those moments that love between two people sings its loudest on wedding days, whether it’s between parent and child, siblings, or the future Mr. and Mrs.

The church itself was a stunning backdrop for the traditional Catholic ceremony. It had an old-world romantic feel that almost felt like it was from an older era. After the nuptials, we utilized the church grounds for some photos before we went downtown for some more portraits with the wedding party. It was then time for the real party to start!

Their venue was The Loft side of Dock 580 and the dining room was decorated in such a romantic and sophisticated way. Moroccan lanterns were hung over each table, and linens of blue were accented with gold and maroon. Stunning florals pouring out of centerpieces made for the perfect exclamation point on an already beautiful setting. As the guests dined, laughter from the perfect speeches filled the room. Everything felt so warm and alive.

The party ramped up with the first dances, including a fun coreographed dance by Alyssa and her father. Once open dancing started, it didn’t end until the lights were turned on. It was such a joyous blur! Their wedding day also fell on our son Caddie’s second birthday and they were nice enough to have him come to the reception for some dancing and cake! Needless to say, he loved every minute of it! Thank you again to this amazing family! I’m so thankful to have been a part of it all! XO Jess

Whetstone Park of Roses Wedding

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You might remember these two beautiful people from their engagement shoot posted here earlier last year. Jess is an OSU super-fan, so when it came to their wedding, the theme was a no-brainer! The entire bridal party wore OSU colors and of course, it wouldn’t have been an OSU wedding without a stop to the shoe for photos during the portrait session.

Their day started with a first look on a spectacular fall afternoon at the Whetstone Park of Roses. Their bridal party was so cute- they were all peeking at the interaction from around the corner and couldn’t wait to join them right after! After a huge group hug, it was time for them to walk down the aisle and get hitched.

Keeping with the OSU theme, their ring bearer wore an OSU jersey and carried a football. It was beyond cute as he ran and smiled ear-to-ear. The ceremony was officiated by a mutual friend of the couple and Misti and Jess said their vows in front of tons of family and friends in the scenic rose garden. After a few photos in the park, we made a pit stop down the street at Lineage Brewing so the happy couple could share their first toast as a married couple with their closest friends. Afterward, we ventured to the Horseshoe on the OSU campus for some fun and relaxed photos with everyone.

The party ramped up at the Westerville Legion where the OSU campus specialty Adriatico’s pizza was served as part of a tailgate food spread. Sentimental toasts were given to the happy couple and the entire place filled with love and laughter as the open dancing started. Dance moves were incredible and I’ve never seen so many hugs in one night. Everyone was just so happy and I feel so lucky to have been there to experience it. A huge thank you to Misti and Jess for honoring me with being able to spend the day with you both!

North Bank Park Pavilion Wedding

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I met Mike and Justin about a month or two before their wedding. I feel like the stars cosmically aligned so I’d get to have the honor of meeting these two. From the very first second we met, it was just easy- it felt like I had known them for years and years. I live for that feeling! Their personalities are vibrant, the way they interact is beyond cute, and the day they planned to celebrate their love was just relaxed, stunning and dare I say perfect!

Justin used to be an event and wedding florist among other things so he planned and executed the decor for the day. The final look was fall themed, but modern, refined and sophisticated. Seeing his talent first hand just blew me away! Mike was right by his side, helping with every little detail and nuance.

Side note- They currently own the Grandview home decor store www.fourthhome.com. It is my new favorite place to spend way too much money. Their inventory has something for everyone who enjoys quality decor- and the prices are very reasonable as well.

After the two of them finished setting up their own wedding venue, North Bank Park Pavilion, we walked around downtown and took some very GQ style photos. We ended up with some art deco inspired locations that went well with the colors of their wedding. When we walked back to the venue, the sun was low in the sky and their evening outdoor ceremony was to follow.

As they walked down the aisle, there were tears of joy. The short ceremony was filled with so much love and laughter- and they were surrounded by the warmth of tons of family and friends.

Fast forward to the reception- this probably wins the best dance party of the year award in my book. Everyone and I mean everyone got DOWN! Drinks were flowing, late night snacks were laid out, and the party never died down- it just ramped up. I loved this wedding so much and am so thankful that ill be able to keep in touch with them both now that I’m a groupie of their store! So without further ado, here is Mike and Justin’s sophisticated fall wedding!!

Columbus Courthouse Wedding

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This is easily one of my favorite weddings I’ve ever shot, mostly because Becca and Rich made it so intimate and uniquely them. From the start, Becca even referred to it as their “non-wedding”. They were married on a Thursday earlier this October. We met downtown at the Columbus Courthouse where other people were getting married on a Thursday as well. The couple getting married before them brought too many people to even fit into the room, so they were married in the hallway and we got to watch. I think that all made the experience even more exciting! The excitement for Becca and Rich’s names to be called into the chamber next was palpable.

The whole ceremony probably took less than 5 minutes. I was the only witness to their marriage besides the judge presiding!!! It was such a fantastical blur- and again I felt so thankful for being there so I could help preserve those quick but mighty minutes.

From the courthouse, we walked around downtown. While we walked, Becca told me how the whole planning process came together. Her dress was from Rent the Runway. I’ve actually done RTR and my personal experience was amazing. You’re able to wear clothes that make you walk a little taller. And WOW the dress she picked was perfect and she paired it with a vintage fur wrap. The morning of their wedding, Becca stopped into the North Market flower shop and they made her bouquet on the spot. Not only was it stunning, but it smelled amazing thanks to sprigs of eucalyptus. Rich’s tweet 3-piece suit came all the way from Scottland and the two of them together had a classic/vintage look, perfect for photographing against the urban backdrop of downtown. My favorite part of the day had to be when their family surprised them during our photo session by blowing bubbles on them. They had actually followed us from the courthouse in secret! It made for the best reactions from the bride and groom, and I must say some awesome photos to boot.

Later that afternoon, the couple met up with immediate family and friends for a small reception in the Tap Room at Wolf’s Ridge Brewery. It was the most elegant rustic backdrop for the affair. Drinks, tons of hugs, laughs and gourmet food followed throughout the evening. I can’t thank Becca and Rich enough for such a memorable and intimate experience! And now without further ado, here is the “non-wedding”:

Renaissance Columbus Wedding

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Megan and Keith’s wedding was on a most exceptional late September day. The people, the locations, the weather, and the classic beauty were all so much fun to be around and capture.

I met up with Megan at the Downtown Columbus Hotel. When I walked in, her room was exploding with lots of friends and excitement. I had never met her in person and was immediately struck by the fact she looked so much like one of my best friends! It was an automatic familiar feeling which I found both comforting and inspiring. Then when I found out she loved Lady Gaga and was wearing Jimmy Choo shoes, I was seriously impressed! Megan was helped into her stunning Rosa Clara dress by her mom and closest friends. It fit her like an absolute dream. Before we ventured off to the church, we utilized some of the outdoor marquee lights at the Renaissance for some stunning bridal photos.

The ceremony took place at the beautiful St. Leo in German Villiage. The isle was lined with strands of tulle and white flowers. The lighting was soft and romantic. A violinist was accompanied by a woman singing with a beautiful voice. It all felt intimate, religious and genuine. Afterwards, the couple exited the church to a flurry of bubbles showered on them by their friends and family.

For portraits, we stopped by the OSU campus’ Thompson Library. It’s a beautiful classical backdrop for the sophisticated bridal party. Speaking of bridal party, I think my favorite thing about both side’s of this bridal party is it was composed of men and women on both sides. It was such a refreshing thing to see and I wish more people didn’t feel obligated to only have men or only have women standing by them. We made one last stop at the Scioto Mile for a couple more photos before we made our way back to the Renaissance for the reception.

The event ballroom was uplit with pink and had tall overflowing floral centerpieces. The rest of the night was spent celebrating and dancing! And boy did they dance! I’m so excited to share this wedding today and I hope you love these as much as I did taking them:) XO Jess

Columbus Westin Wedding

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I laughed so hard I almost cried the very first time I met Erin and David- so when they asked me to work with them on their engagement and wedding, I felt like I won the lottery! Their fall 2016 e-session and their September 2017 wedding were truly highlights on my schedule!

I met up with everyone at the downtown Columbus Westin. My second shooter went and hung out with the guys while I joined the girls getting ready. This bridal party wins the bridal party of the year award. Each and every one of these girls was so genuine and fun. They all beamed when they saw Erin in her dress, and a few of them even cried. They all had electric personalities that brought a new level of excitement and joy to the day!

Erin’s dress might be the most uniquely beautiful dress I’ve ever seen. It was a form-fitting dusty light pink silhouette embellished with sequins that glittered in the sun. The bridesmaids all wore gold sequined dresses. Together with the Petals & Leaves florals of maroons and pinks, the girls all looked flawless.

I met up with David around the corner from the Westin for the couple’s first look. I asked him if he thought he was going to cry, and he said definitively no. But guess who had tears of joy streaming down his face when he turned around and saw how stunning Erin looked? It was such an amazing moment- one of those I’m so excited I get to be a fly-on-the-wall to see and capture.

The entire wedding party went around to a few Columbus spots, including a parking deck. It was like having your own city all to yourself up there! In the distance, there was even a band playing really loudly so it was like a private concert, too. After the photos, we headed back to the Westin for the signing of the ketubah and ceremony.

The Westin is such a grand event space. I know I’ve written about its history in-depth in a previous blog post so I won’t geek out over it here. Just know I love this space. Look at the photos and you’ll see why!! The ceremony ended with the breaking of the glass and a joyous “Mozel Tov!” rang out from the family and guests!

The event space was quickly turned from the ceremony to reception-ready during cocktail hour. With Orange Blossom Events at the helm, everything went flawlessly. Greenery was accented with maroons, golds, and candlelight. It was so elegant and classy. Dinner, speeches, happy tears and explosive laughter followed through the night. The whole day was nothing short of magical and I can’t thank David and Erin enough for having me with them! Cheers to you both!! Xo Jess

Via Vecchia Reception

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Emily and Rob’s late July wedding had it all! Perfect weather, smiling faces, stunning surroundings and so much love throughout the day. From the church to the reception venue, there were stunning surprises around every corner.

Emily’s dress was just perfect for her. The A-line dress had delicate lace sleeve accents which were striking with her dark hair. The dress dropped softly into lots of alternating layers that floated away from her as she walked. Each bridesmaid wore a different cut of a soft pink or dusty rose colored flowy gown. Madison House designs provided the florals that tied the whole look together. Rob wore a blue suit, which you don’t see often but I wish more men would opt for it. It is so sophisticated and dapper.

Emily and Rob were married at the Church of the Messiah in Westerville. This church is incredibly cool inside. It has soaring modern stained glass windows. They line the center aisle with lit taper candles which makes everything inside feel warm and romantic.

From the church, we went to the spot that Rob asked Emily to marry him- the center of the OSU oval. Right nearby the Thompson Library made a stunning classical backdrop for some more photos. Afterward, we headed over to Via Vecchia for more romantic alley photos, one of the biggest perks of having your wedding there!

Inside, the scene was set for an elegant wedding that featured gold and candlelit table settings accented with greenery. The party got off to an amazing start with some wonderful and funny speeches. After, Emily and Rob performed a fairytale-worthy choreographed first dance together for all of their guests. When the open dancing started you better believe that dance floor was full of some of the best moves I’ve seen in awhile! Thank you so much Emily and Rob and I hope you love these as much as I loved taking them! XO Jess

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