Set Free Photography » wedding http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog Photography Blog Sat, 28 Jan 2012 00:18:08 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.2 Jaime & Matt: engaged Naples Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/jaime-matt-engaged-naples-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/ http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/jaime-matt-engaged-naples-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/#comments Sat, 28 Jan 2012 00:18:08 +0000 stacy http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/?p=3556 Adoration…that is all that I think about when I am around Jaime and Matt. Matt truly, wholeheartedly adores Jaime–it’s in his eyes, his smile, his touch…and every bit of it is so genuine. How I l-o-v-e photographing love! We started out with the “kids,” who were freshly groomed and camera ready:

And then it was time for a romantic canoe ride (I was just a little excited about it!).

I am already planning my next (er, first) canoe ride…it looked super fun. And these two made it look like a fairytale!

Wardrobe Change! (that was meant to be heard in my sing-song voice)

Jaime and Matt had scoped out our location ahead of time, where they met a man who explained that many couples carve their name into the bamboo trees…so he lent them his knife and we found their carving! (read: Matt found it. Jaime and I were lost six times by this point)

Here’s that adoration I was talking about…you can just feel it.

Congratulations, Jaime & Matt! Your heartfelt love and intense connection put such a smile on my face after our shoot. I think the world of you both and look forward to the wedding…I can’t stop thinking of ideas for us!

Love,
Stacy
Naples Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography™

]]> http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/jaime-matt-engaged-naples-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/feed/ 2 Family photos celebrating the engagement of Sharon & Jason Fort Myers Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/family-photos-celebrating-the-engagement-of-sharon-jason-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/ http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/family-photos-celebrating-the-engagement-of-sharon-jason-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/#comments Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:55:09 +0000 stacy http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/?p=3545 Sharon and I have known each other since high school–we performed on the dance team together (shout out to the Danstars!) and the Pom Squad (hey, hey Starettes!!). So, it was quite a thrill when she contacted me from our hometown of Chicago and inquired about family/engagement photos right here in Fort Myers, where her fiance’s family lives. It was a 16 year reunion and Sharon still looks the same, with her sparkling blue eyes and completely flawless skin. Um, Sharon: May I have the name of your facial cream? ‘Cause you don’t have any wrinkles and I will need to get my hands of some of that!

We started things off at the studio, where we captured these precious smiles:

Then we went on location to a field in North Fort Myers, where we had the most fun capturing true love, family, and the innocence of sweet young girls:

Thank you, Sharon, Jason, Ali & Ana for a lovely afternoon! Congratulations on your engagement and upcoming wedding…I couldn’t be happy for you and your families!
Much Love & Affection,
Stacy

p.s. Stand Up and Cheer For Rich South Varsity! (had to!)

]]> http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/family-photos-celebrating-the-engagement-of-sharon-jason-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/feed/ 2 Carissa & Jon: engaged! Naples Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/carissa-jon-engaged-naples-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/ http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/carissa-jon-engaged-naples-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/#comments Sat, 07 Jan 2012 17:46:46 +0000 stacy http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/?p=3504 Lovely, lovely, lovely…that is what comes to mind when I think of Carissa and Jon’s engagement session. Styled by the fabulously talented Stephanie Meiser of Along Came Stephanie, the shoot was romantic & sweet with a touch of vintage glamour. Enjoy!

Little Miss Alexandra added a ray of sunshine to the shoot! What a beauty she is!

Congratulations on your engagement, Carissa & Jon! Looking forward to working with you over the next several months…you two are going to make an incredibly gorgeous bride and groom!

Love,
Stacy
Naples Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography™

]]> http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/carissa-jon-engaged-naples-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/feed/ 1 Brittany & Daniel: married at the historic Burrough’s Home Fort Myers Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/brittany-daniel-married-at-the-historic-burroughs-home-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/ http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/brittany-daniel-married-at-the-historic-burroughs-home-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/#comments Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:31:58 +0000 stacy http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/?p=3457 Brittany, Daniel and I have been working together for almost a year and I have enjoyed getting to know them so so much (read: falling in love with them!)…what a special couple. And fun, too…I love random texts from BRITT! Holla, girl! The gorgeous girls got ready at Hotel Indigo, where we snapped some detail & getting ready images…check out Brittany’s amazing shoes & dress:

Brittany rocked a Galina Signature Gown, and her shoes are none other than Vera Wang.

Personalized hanger fromEtsy , and rings from Dunkin’s Diamonds.

Brittany is unbelievably gorgeous…everyone agreed that she was the most beautiful bride they had ever seen.

Brittany’s Mom wrote her a special note and presented her with pearls…tears flowed as Brittany was taken by surprise:

Next, we were off to the Burrough’s Home, where Daniel awaits the “first look” meeting with Brittany. There, we found a card from Daniel and Britt took quiet moment to read it (sigh…):

Here she comes!!

Oh, the emotion…these tears of joy remind me of why I love weddings so much. For this moment right here:

And for the moments that follow; like when the groom takes in his bride’s beauty and is utterly speechless:

My favorite photo of the day:

Gorgeous florals by Fort Myers Express Floral:

The very lovely bridal party! I love the purple bridesmaid dresses agains the yellow house–stunning!

Escorted by her father, Brittany walks down the long Burrough’s home aisle…I love the dramatic scene at this venue!

The joy and exhilaration here is so evident, it makes my heart sing!

Cake by Publix Bakery:

First Dance:

Daniel’s father had everyone riveted with his words:

Father/daughter, mother/son…can’t you tell how much this couple is and has been loved by their parents?

Ending things with a little fun:

Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Meyer! You are beautiful on the inside and out, and so inspiring to be around. Your love, your deep connection and respect for one another leave me no doubt that your bond will be celebrated and admired for years to come. Thank you for inviting Brandon and I to capture these memories, and for your grace upon us. We look forward to a lifetime of friendship with you and your families.
Love,
Stacy & Brandon
Fort Myers Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography™

Vendor List:
Venue: The Burrough’s Home
Dress: Galina Signature Gown”>Galina Signature for David’s Bridal
Shoes: Vera Wang for David’s Bridal
Veil: David’s Bridal
Flowers: Fort Myers Express Floral
Rings: Dunkin’s Diamonds
Catering: Center Plates
Cake: Publix
Tux Rental: Men’s Wearhouse
Bridesmaid Dresses: Vera Wang for David’s Bridal
Hair: Brittany of Blush
DJ: New Beginnings

]]> http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/brittany-daniel-married-at-the-historic-burroughs-home-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/feed/ 1 engaged to be married: Mike & Julie Fort Myers Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/engaged-to-be-married-mike-julie-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/ http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/engaged-to-be-married-mike-julie-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/#comments Fri, 25 Nov 2011 16:46:33 +0000 stacy http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/?p=3412 I met Mike and Julie for the first time at our session and the connection was instant–Mike is a fellow photographer/videographer and clearly Julie has creativity and art in her soul. Photographing them was ridiculously fun: they were romantically sweet and completely comfortable in front of the camera. I could have followed them around and snapped pictures of them all day!

This shoot was styled by Stephanie, of Along Came Stephanie…thank you for making Mike & Julie’s wardrobe so fabulous, Stephanie!

Congratulations, Mike & Julie…I hope your New York wedding is a dream come true.
Love,
Stacy
Fort Myers Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography

]]> http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/engaged-to-be-married-mike-julie-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/feed/ 0 eye candy: albums! Fort Myers Photographer, Set Free Photography http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/eye-candy-albums-fort-myers-photographer-set-free-photography/ http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/eye-candy-albums-fort-myers-photographer-set-free-photography/#comments Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:07:29 +0000 stacy http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/?p=3177 Good morning! Today, I am sharing some of our beautiful products with you in the form of wedding albums. I love love love the satisfaction of holding a beautiful album in my hand and carefully turning each page…the feel of the paper, the moments relived, the smell of leather…it is transcendent. I have two styles to share today: first up, our custom photo cover book featuring Jen and Brian. When they chose their cover image, I did a very rambunctious happy dance!

And the timeless leather cover book featuring Lisa & Carlos…I am in love with these thick, rounded pages, and the library book spine. My favorite thing about this specific leather choice is that no book will ever look the same, as it will take on it’s own character due it’s hand finished aging technique.

I hope your eyes have enjoyed perusing the beauty of hand-crafted, finished artwork. Thank you for stopping by!
Love,
Stacy
Set Free Photography, Fort Myers Photographer

]]> http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/eye-candy-albums-fort-myers-photographer-set-free-photography/feed/ 0 Allison & Jake: fun with s’mores! Naples Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/allison-jake-fun-with-smores-naples-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/ http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/allison-jake-fun-with-smores-naples-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/#comments Fri, 16 Sep 2011 18:19:21 +0000 stacy http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/?p=3160 I felt like I walked into a dream when Allison and Jake met me for their engagement shoot and I saw their utterly fabulous set up. Allison’s Mom, Brenda knew that the couple loves to enjoy s’mores together…so she set up a picnic for them incorporating all of the s’more elements, and to top it all off, she hand-carved a tree stump with their names on it. She carved it herself! I marvel at her vision and dedication to making such an amazing scene come to life with the joy and love shared by Allison and Jake. I’m kinda speechless.

They thought of everything…they even made the roasting sticks fabulous!

Even the matches were adorable…swoon.

The chemistry between these two is so sweet…their love is full of joy, and is felt by everyone in their presence. I can’t wait for the wedding!

Jake and Allison: You are adorable and so in love…you just completely belong together! I had the most fun photographing you two.

Brenda hand-carved this, too…such impressive handiwork!

Allison & Jake:
I am counting down the days until your wedding–I can’t wait to photograph you again! Thank you allowing me to capture sweet romance and for loving s’mores!
Love,
Stacy
Set Free Photography, Naples Photographer

]]> http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/allison-jake-fun-with-smores-naples-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/feed/ 2 Jessica & Jason: engaged Fort Myers Photographer, Set Free Photography http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/jessica-jason-engaged-fort-myers-photographer-set-free-photography/ http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/jessica-jason-engaged-fort-myers-photographer-set-free-photography/#comments Wed, 07 Sep 2011 15:23:44 +0000 stacy http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/?p=3139 Jason and Jessica couldn’t be more perfect for one another…their chemistry, affection and the ease that they feel around each other made their engagement session incredibly fun. I felt like a kid in a candy store as I snapped these images!

These two have been apart over the last year and their long-distance relationship has included letters, long phone calls and visits…so we incorporated these elements into out session. Love!

Jessica’s Dad made these tin can phones:

I love this playful moment where the tin can phones came in handy for pulling Jason closer…

Jess always has a letter in progress for Jason…how romantic!

We loved the way the sun was filtered by the Spanish Moss under this tree, but a cloud passed over the sun before we could get our shot…we called it quits after waiting for over 10 minutes and headed for the car…and wouldn’t ya know it, the sun popped out just after we hit the parking lot! Without hesitation, Jason and Jess ran for the tree and I snapped this…I love that they were really running with a purpose!

I am so glad we ran back because this is one of my favorite shots ever in the entire history of Set Free Photography:

In keeping with the theme of a long-distance relationship, suitcases were a must for our shoot. Jess and Jay are usually packing or unpacking from one of their visits and I was thrilled to have these vintage suitcases available…thank you, Josh Comer!

I am in love with this image…it’s like I can hear Jason’s laughter.

Jess and Jay:
You two are so fabulous…after all of the schedule challenges we overcame to get these images, I couldn’t be happier that we shot on this exact day, and at this exact time. Everything came together perfectly, beautifully, spectacularly! I am counting the days until the wedding when I will have the pleasure of photographing you again.

All my love,
Stacy
Naples Photographer, Set Free Photography™

]]> http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/jessica-jason-engaged-fort-myers-photographer-set-free-photography/feed/ 3 Ashley & Stephen: married http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/ashley-stephen-married/ http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/ashley-stephen-married/#comments Fri, 02 Sep 2011 16:42:44 +0000 stacy http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/?p=3082 You might remember Ashley and Stephen from their super fun engagement shoot in downtown Fort Myers. They are both so comfortable in front of the camera…they love to be silly, natural, dramatic…they rock it all! I knew the wedding would bring more emotion and drama to their photos, and I absolutely couldn’t wait to photograph these two on the big day!

Ashley and Stephen were married at 1st Presbyterian Church in downtown Fort Myers–we found some great little places to photograph the details in the ladies’ lounge there.

Ashley’s gorgeous gown is from Essence of Australia…the lightweight silk was exquisite! Fort Myers Express Floral beautifully wove feathers into Ashley’s bouquet. It took my breath away when I first laid eyes on it!

Fab red shoes by Antonio Melani. The rings were Ashley and Stephen’s “something old,” as they were a pre-owned set from Gordon’s Jewelers. I really love that little detail!

Ashley’s Alfred Angelo bracelet was just perfect!

What a fabulous “something blue,” a Coach purse!

Ashley gets dressed with the assistance of her maid of honor, Joy and her beautiful, hilarious mother…Denise, you are such a pleasure to know!

Ashley’s hair was done by Vanity Hair Spa…Ashley claims that “Amy Hogan is a genius of hair.”

Emily Hardin: Thank you for your help! You are a gift to every bride…I love this image of you helping Ashley with her bracelet!

A glance in the mirror with Mom…I love this. I hope to have a photo like this with my daughter someday!

Is it hot in here? Wow, Ashley! Simply gorgeous!

Such kind and beautiful bridesmaids…thank you ladies! Dresses from For the Bride.

Stephen getting ready for his bride:

The guys!

Ashley’s mom decorated the church and I have to say that I envy her bow-tying skills! Awesome job, Denise!

Brandon snapped these images through the window in the sanctuary right before Ashley’s Dad escorted her down aisle. This creativity truly amazes me…I couldn’t love these two images more. Go, Brandon!

The vows that Ashley wrote for Stephen were written 6 months after they started dating, when she was sixteen years old. How’s that for true love? Swoon!

Family and friends prayed over Ashley and Stephen…myself included!

We headed over to the Plantation for portraits and the reception. We were battling the rain but we pulled through!

Brandon took the following two photos and I love the perspective of them looking somewhere besides directly into the camera:

Gorgeous group…Ashley, I love your expression!

The Plantation is a great place for indoor portraits when it gets too hot outside! I love these two images the most!

Another example of Brandon’s creativity…I love, love, love this! Brandon, you are getting tackled again!

The reception room was designed and decorated by Ashley’s mom…Denise, you rocked it again!

The feathers really added to the entire feel of the day…what a better way to photograph the rings than nestled in a feather?

First Dance:

Ashley and her Dad shared an impromptu father-daughter dance that delighted the crowd:

Mom and son dance…shout out to you, Jennifer!

Lovely Best Man speech by Daniel:

Cake cutting…cake by the amazing Mason’s Bakery:

And a sparkler send-off!

Ashley & Stephen:
If I have ever witnessed love between two soul mates, none has been truer than yours. Your connection is rare and to be treasured–as you both clearly do! I wish you every happiness and many blessings as you begin your new lives in Chicago. You will be missed and fondly thought of…I look forward to those one year anniversary pictures! I will be following your journey on facebook and praying for you all the time!

Much love and affection,
Stacy and Brandon
Naples Photographer, Set Free Photography ™

Vendor List:
Dress: Essence of Australia
Flowers: Fort Myers Express Floral
Bracelet: Alfred Angelo
Rings: Gordon’s Jewelers
Hair & Makeup: Vanity Hair Spa
Bridesmaid dresses: For the Bride
Reception: The Plantation Golf & Country Club
Tux Rental: Black Tie
DJ: Ron Rutz
Cake: Mason’s Bakery
Favors: Norman Love Confections

]]> http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/ashley-stephen-married/feed/ 1 Elaina & Dan: beautifully, happily, blissfully married! Fort Myers Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/elaina-dan-beautifully-happily-blissfully-married-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/ http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/elaina-dan-beautifully-happily-blissfully-married-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/#comments Wed, 24 Aug 2011 20:11:38 +0000 stacy http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/?p=3028 Elaina and Dan’s southern-inspired wedding utterly wowed me at every turn. We started the day at Hotel Indigo in downtown Fort Myers and I absolutely adore this property for photos of the bride getting ready. Elaina’s gown by Mikaella was elegant and graceful…it fit her style & personality perfectly.

Blue shoes are my favorite, along with this fabulous garter by Rosebud Lips:

Bridesmaid’s shoes:

Elaina gifted all of her bridesmaids with personalized drink koozies and bags from Preppy Monogrammed Gifts and L.L. Bean (love!):

Elaina’s Mom and sister helped her get dressed:

Elaina, you take my breath away and make my heart skip a beat. You are the definition of beautiful!

Fabulous florals by Libby’s:

I love this picture! I feel so privileged to photograph such gorgeous girls…you all are rocking out those J. Crew bridesmaid dresses!

Elaina has a beautiful Mom and a beautiful sister…and the best part is that they are beautiful on the inside and out!

Here are the guys hanging out at the bar…

Elaina selected this fantastic striped tie from Macy’s for the groom and groomsmen. I absolutely love it!

And they kicked it in some argyle socks…fab!

Elaina’s loving father escorted her down the aisle…there were many tears and many smiles. I love seeing Dan’s smiling face at the end of the alter.

The ring exchange:

And the kiss, of course!

After the ceremony, we headed out to the reception venue, The Verandah. The southern feel to Elaina’s style was perfectly accented by this gorgeous property.

You two look amazing!

I loved Elaina’s touches of stripes, ruffle and navy blue all over the reception:

Monogrammed glass jars with candied pecans were set at each place setting for guests to enjoy. Yum!

Stunning rings from the Diamond District:

The first dance provoked tears in Elaina, and her sister Laurie (me too!).

Dan and his sweet Mom take the dance floor:

Laurie gave a super entertaining speech…Elaina & Laurie, I always wanted a sister and seeing the two of you only deepens my desire! Your love for each other truly warms my heart.

Dan’s best man couldn’t make it to the wedding, so he thoughtfully recorded a speech for Elaina and Dan to watch online. I have to meet this guy someday–he was hilarious and sentimental…he had everyone laughing and crying.

See? Here’s bridesmaid Ashley laughing and crying!

Even Elaina and Dan’s dinner plates were picture perfect:

Elaina, I love how your style flowed through your entire wedding…including to this amazing Publix cake!

Super fun group of dancers…and what an awesome yellow dress! I want to wear that!

Mr. & Mrs. are all smiles as they danced the night away.

Elaina and Dan: Congratulations, lovies! I am so inspired by your style and your grace…thank you for inviting us to capture your wedding day and celebrate your new life together. We couldn’t have asked for a more fun and gorgeous bride and groom to take on the heat and humidity and rock out those bridal portraits. Wishing you a fulfilling and blessed marriage!
Much love and affection,
Stacy & Brandon
Fort Myers Wedding Photographer, Set Free Photography™

]]> http://www.setfreephotography.com/blog/elaina-dan-beautifully-happily-blissfully-married-fort-myers-wedding-photographer-set-free-photography/feed/ 2