THE SSP JOURNAL

Joyful, fine art wedding photography for real couples. Serving Chicago, Washington DC and beyond.
Based in South Bend, Indiana. Available for travel.

Intimate ceremony during pandemic – Mr & Mrs Osborne – South Bend Wedding Photographer

Lauren and Allen’s wedding wasn’t quite what they had envisioned but that didn’t make it any less special or heartfelt. Thanks to the pandemic, their big wedding was quickly changed to an intimate ceremony with just their immediate families. With a lot planning, flexibility and prayer, we were able to still have the ceremony on their original wedding date and then move their large reception to next March. I know it’s not what they were dreaming of for their wedding day but they were both so happy that they still got to get married. They were beaming from ear to ear all day!

The day started out with details! I photographed Lauren & Allen’s details before they arrived at the church. I love the blue they chose for the invitations and Lauren’s flowers from Poppies by Polly made for the perfect accent! 🌺

Lauren’s dress was incredible! The lace shelves and satin train were so elegant! It reminded me of a 1920’s gown. And bonus… she said it was super comfortable to wear! 💍

Lauren’s mom and sister Ashley were there to help her get dressed. The intricate details of the dress were gorgeous!

Our beautiful Lauren!  ❤️

I can’t get enough of this photo! The light, the composition and the beautiful human being… the perfect moment! I love it so much that I did a post about it. Yes I’m obsessed! 😍

The room was large enough for me to step way back and get the girls helping Lauren with her train. It kind of reminds me of Cinderella! Such a fun time!

Breathtaking! 😍

Now it was time for Allen to get dressed. Von, his best man, assisted our awesome groom with his very dapper suit!

Sorry ladies… this one’s taken! 😎

First look!  ☺️

Soon to Mr & Mrs! ❤️

I asked Von to fluff Lauren’s train for the photo and he might have gotten a little carried away with it, lol! He parachuted the train like his life depended on it. 🤣

My favorite! So cute! 🥰

Now it was time to get married! 😱

I was so glad that their church still allowed us to have their ceremony there. It’s a beautiful church and the staff are very helpful.

Lauren and Allen streamed their wedding live on Facebook for those who couldn’t be there. I of course had to get a picture of it… so fun and smart! 📱

Mr & Mrs Osborne! 🥰

Family formals. ❤️

Bridal party. ☺️

After the ceremony, everyone walked into the foyer and sanitized their hands. It was hilarious so I had to get a picture of it. Thank you COVID. 😛

Cake time! Lauren’s aunt made them a small cake so that they could still have this special moment.  🎂

Before leaving, Lauren and Allen wanted a few photos in the small chapel of the church. It wasn’t very big and had very little light so I thought we’d get creative and make something that’s truly one of a kind and unique to only them.

The first shots are in front of the stained glass windows. To keep their beautiful color, I decided to silhouette Lauren and Allen. Plus it focuses on the emotion of the photograph vs the surroundings.

Lastly, I wanted to do a few photos with Lauren and Allen kneeling at the alter. However, I wanted something very unique, not just flat light that would fill the whole space. No, it had to tell the story of where they were and why. So I chose to light them from above. This gave the photo a very intimate feel and makes you think that the light is coming from Heaven. A one of a kind moment for Lauren and Allen.

I did a few variation but this one is by far my favorite.

After we got the photos in the chapel, I said goodbye to Lauren and Allen and wished them well. What they didn’t know was that I was actually headed to their parent’s house to surprise them. Lauren’s mom had arranged for the whole neighborhood to stand outside and welcome the newlyweds in style. Their neighbors made huge banners, blew up balloons and cheered as Lauren and Allen pulled into the addition.

Lauren’s parent’s house was beautifully decorated with hearts and large letters that spelled out Lauren, Allen and love. It was incredible! 😱

WNDU and the South Bend Tribune were also there. They interviewed Lauren and Allen and it was featured on the news! You can watch it here.

After the interview, Lauren and Allen and their families, went inside to enjoy the polish feast they had planned for their reception. The Blue Heron was gracious enough to still make food for them to enjoy. Next March, Lauren and Allen will have their whole reception and maybe even a vow renewal at the Blue Heron. I can’t wait! 😁

 

Perfect end to the perfect day… pandemic be damned! 😁

To Lauren and Allen – Thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me the honor of capturing your wedding. It was an incredible day and such a blessing to be apart of. I’m thrilled that we get to do it all over again next year! I wish you both all the love in the world. Congratulations and I’ll see you in March! All my love – S

To see their full gallery, click here.

Vendors:

Photography: Sarah Sage Photography LLC

Church: Grace United Methodist Church

Floral: Poppies by Polly

Catering: The Blue Heron at Blackthorn

Cake: Lauren’s aunt

Dress: Simply Yours Bridal and Formal Wear

Suit: Generation Tux

 

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