Congrats!
He got the ring, got down on one knee and asked you the big question; “Will you marry me?”. No matter who you are, this exciting chapter usually starts there. With my own 22 year anniversary recently passed, I’ve found myself nostalgic as I think of all the couples now who are about to embark on the same journey my wife and I started back then. I want wish all the soon-to-be-wed couples well. I hope your marriage is one full of happiness, love and plenty of shenanigan’s. Of course, that all begins with the wedding!
Having been in the photography business for three decades I have taken many a wedding portrait and in honor of all you lovebirds, I thought to share some of my most memorable pictures that I’ve taken over the years.
“A Royal Dress”
As I began McDonald’s Studios in 1988, it felt right to start this list with one of the first weddings I covered! As you can see, this young lady was a classic 80’s bride. She channeled Princess Diana with her puffy sleeves, and dramatic train. The high-necked collar though? That was all her own and boy did she rock it!
“Putting For Love”
Up next I’m jumping a few years ahead to the 90s where we see a couple with a shared interest: golf! The happy couple decided to have a bit of fun during their wedding photos and practiced their perfect hole-in-one putt on the golfing green. In all thirty years of the studio, this is a shot I have yet to see again at any wedding so I wanted to share it with you all!
“King of The Keg”
No matter what year it is, you can always count on a few shenanigans at any wedding. This shot, taken in the late 90’s is proof, as the groomsmen decided to have a bit of fun and get the party started right there in the parking lot.
“May God Bless You”
Whether it’s the mid-2000s or decades before, weddings have long held religious significance for many couples. As a result, I’ve photographed ceremonies in numerous churches, photographing couples in stained glass has always been one of my favorite wedding photos. Just at that lighting!
“Groomsmen, Assemble!”
Though most people think the wedding is the bride’s day, the groom isn’t just a decoration. I created this photo in 2016 as this groom-to-be had a little fun with his friends. Like I said before, no wedding is complete without a little fun!
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”
Though white is traditional, not every bride opts for it on their wedding. This 2017 bride was one such example and she turned heads in a brilliant red gown on her big day. As you can see, the groom couldn’t take his eyes off her and the feeling was mutual!
“A Little Help From Mom”
In all the weddings I’ve been a part of one thing remains the same; the bride’s mother is her biggest helper. Whether it’s 1988 or 2020, it’s something I’ve come to expect and I love capture special moments like this. The smiles on their faces are truly magical as they both see long-time dreams come true.
“The Luckiest Man on Earth”
Of course, I had to save the best for last. This photo was taken on a beach in Florida back in 1998 where I pulled double-duty as a groom and a photographer. To this day, Rachel remains the most beautiful bride I’ve ever photographed and I love her more every day. Truly, I was the luckiest man on Earth that day and nothing has changed in the last few decades.
That’s A Wrap!
Of course, these aren’t all the wedding photos I’ve taken (this post would be way longer if it was!) And as you can see, many things have changed over the decades. What hasn’t changed however, is my commitment to my clients. I’m just as committed to make sure I give you the highest quality photographs possible now as I was in 1988.
Once again, to all you couples about to embark on this new journey of marriage, I wish you an abundance of love and joy. And to my beautiful wife, Rachel-thank you for an amazing twenty-two years; when I count my blessings, I count you twice. I love you.