Pulling into the parking lot of the Venue at Stockton Lake was like arriving at a wedding photographer's dream. A beautiful barn with big windows, a cascading hill overlooking a nearby pond with a fountain, trees displaying the brightest autumn leaves, and in the distance a view of the lake. We'd stepped into a fairytale!

After taking detail shots of the dress and goodies, we hopped between suites to photograph and video the bride and groom's final preparations. It'd never been easier for us to capture those moments since the doors were only a few feet apart. The rooms, especially the bridal suite, were roomy, wonderfully lit, and aesthetically perfect!

Once they were ready, we started the festivities with the father of the bride's first look, just outside the venue. The only thing that could top the touching scene was the groom's first look afterwards. Mid-way down the hill, he waited with anticipation. She glided down elegantly, gently touching his shoulder. After embracing, they read their vows to each other, making promises bigger than any other.

We kept up the momentum with bridal party portraits and family pictures. Afterwards, we ventured back up to the bridal suite for a holy communion with the officiant and his wife. They prayed over the couple and blessed them. The perfect start to the rest of their lives.

Outside, the guests were being seated. The sun shone brilliantly, cooled by an Autumn breeze. The groom and officiant descended the hill from the venue, followed by the bridal party, the cutest flower girls, and finally the bride and her dad. A time of worship began in front of the old wooden cross. Song and prayer filled the air before the officiant gave a Gospel message of love and marriage. The two exchanged vows and rings, then were allowed their first kiss. Husband and wife marched out, hand-in-hand for a quiet moment after the ceremony.

After some last-minute family portraits, we skipped over to Lake Stockton for a more intimate and private time with the bride and groom. The fall colors reflecting off the bright blue water was the most breath-taking setting for wedding portraits.

Cut-back to the venue, a sweet reception was ready to unfold. Parents, siblings, and bridal party made many speeches to the bride and groom. Dinner led to cake-cutting, then to the bride and dad dance before the groom stepped in for his turn. The night ended with a prayer tunnel to pray blessing over the newly-weds before they jumped in the car to head for the airport.

The Venue at Stockton Lake has since done some renovations. The outdoor ceremony area has been renovated into a gorgeous lounging staircase cascading underneath the venue's big windows. The outdoor ceremonies will be placed more directly facing the fountain beneath. If you're on the lookout for a hybrid venue and a photographer experienced in capturing its weddings wonderfully, head to our wedding page and fill out our booking questionnaire!