Fernando and Lyssa’s Wood Acres Farm wedding was hot in more ways than one. One it was actually hot weather-wise. I never appreciated ice water and the nice cooling towels the venue lent me more. The couple was hot for each other, which helps when you are photographing them for eight hours. Lastly, the dance floor was hot thanks to the DJ and a rousing performance from Lyssa’s dad of The Humpty Dance. The day wasn’t just hot though it was a fun time… From the icing of the groom during one of the maids of honor’s speech to the energy of the guests.
Fun Fact: Lyssa teaches at the same school as Meghan, a former bride of mine, who I have photographed many times in the past… You can see her wedding here. So it was like a reunion of sorts as well.
I started the day at the hotel where the girls were getting ready in their own special getting-ready space. I used the ballroom entrance which had many windows to capture the details before moving into the well-lit hallway. This provided great light for the now-traditional robe shot and getting-ready photos for her and her girls.
I then made my way to Wood Acres Farm for the rest of the day to capture the untouched reception space, get a lay of the land, and take as many pre-ceremony wedding portraits before the ceremony to free up time after the ceremony. This included getting ready photos for Fernando and his guys and a first look between Lyssa and her grandfather.
The ceremony was short and sweet, which I am sure the guests sitting in the direct sun really appreciated. After their first kiss as husband and wife, they took a private horse-drawn carriage ride in the woods. I spent that time gathering Lyssa’s cheer team for a big group photo that would be taken once they returned.
Following the bridal party and family photos, we moved into some portraits of the bride and groom in as many locations as I could before the party started. The high-energy intros were followed by emotional formal dances and light-hearted speeches. There were some tears during the toasts but laughter was definitely more prevalent.
Following dinner, I took them out for some more photos. Even though it was a hot day by the time it reached golden hour the clouds decided to make in the be their stay in the blue sky, so it wasn’t golden. The light was beautiful even still.
The Dj got the party started and the night was officially kicked off like the earlier mentioned performance from her dad. The party was at a high level from then until the sparkler exit before I left. I am sure it remained that way til the after-party.
Wood Acres Farm Wedding Photos
Thank you again to Fernando and Lyssa for choosing me to capture your day… It truly was such a fun and HOT day in so many ways.
Til Next Time
Raina
Wood Acres Farm Wedding Team
Venue: Wood Acres Farm
Beauty Services: A Brush of Beauty
Flowers: Jay Mar Sales
Video: Allora Media
Catering: David Grant Catering
Bridal Salon: Lastrina Girls Bridal Salon
Bridesmaids Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids
Men’s Attire: Modern Formals
Bride’s Dress: Allure Bridal
Bar Services: The Mobile Pub
More From GEM
Are you getting married and you are a teacher like Lyssa? Did you know that GEM offers special rates for those who work in the school system? If you would like info on how you can be a part of a limited program check it out here
