Andrea & Dan were married in June in the heart of Ohio, in the charming town of Chillicothe (which I was told was actually Ohio’s first capital!). Andrea might win the award for the smiliest bride ever, and together she and Dan might win the award for making portraits the most fun. We visited their favorite coffee shop, a patriotic landmark in town, and a locally owned lavender field, which made for such a fun and personal portrait time.

We started the day at the church since Andrea and Dan chose to prioritize photography coverage for their full reception rather than getting ready. The first moments I photographed were Andrea’s first look with her dad, and it was so incredibly sweet. Her mom helped her put on her veil, her bridesmaids gathered around to pray over her, and then it was time to walk across the parking lot for their Nuptial Mass.

St. Mary’s in Chillicothe is such a charming historic church with the most beautiful natural light (always a huge win in my book haha). Their wedding Mass was absolutely heavenly, and I think the only time Andrea stopped smiling all day was when she teared up in prayer after receiving the Eucharist.

After their joyful exit from the church, we started portraits around the church before heading next door to the cutest little coffee shop, Paper City Coffee. They were kind enough to stay open late so Andrea and Dan could stop in, order coffee, and take a few photos inside. (Just one of the many reasons why small towns are the best!) From there, we made a few more meaningful stops around town before driving out to Lavender Meadows for some of my favorite portraits of the entire day.

Their reception was held in a local Catholic high school gym to accommodate their 300+ guests, and I was honestly blown away by the transformation. Their family and friends had poured so much love and effort into turning the space into a beautiful reception venue, and somehow it only became more magical as the evening went on.

Another award Andrea and Dan might win? Most kids at a wedding! I have no idea how many there actually were, but there were little ones running around, laughing, dancing, and having the absolute best time everywhere you looked. I’ve said it before, but kids at weddings are one of my favorite things. They bring so much joy, excitement, and wonder to the day.

Andrea and Dan, thank you so much for trusting me to document your wedding day. It has been such a joy getting to know you both, and I couldn’t be happier for you as you begin this new season together!

Xoxo,
Mary Kate

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CHURCH // Our Lady Queen of Apostles Parish (St. Mary Catholic Church)
RECEPTION VENUE // Bishop Flaget School
FLORIST // Bride • Costco • Sam’s Club
VIDEOGRAPHER // Mango Monkey Studios (Tony Ellanardo)
DJ // Cameron Clutter
CAKE // Bride & Matron of Honor Shanon Spaulding
CATERING // Rowdy’s Smokehouse Catering
DRESS // David’s Bridal (Designer: Oleg Cassini)
BRIDESMAIDS // Kennedy Blue
GROOMSMEN // Indochino