Jim + Kate | Intimate Shillington Backyard Summer Wedding | Berks County Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer

I’ve been trying to develop more of a “make lemonade out of lemons” mindset this year. In my opinion, if there is one positive thing to come out of the wedding industry during this pandemic, it is the uptick in intimate backyard weddings that have been taking place. Even though I love wedding celebrations of all varieties and sizes, there’s just something extra special about smaller, cozy affairs - like this one. Smaller weddings have proven to provide just as many (if not more) emotional, candid moments as larger-scale events. What made this wedding even more special is that fact that the bride is one of my daughter’s favorite teachers!

While many couples are making the difficult decision to postpone their weddings these days, Jim and Kate actually moved theirs up a little bit. Fortunately for all of us, their celebration took place the same weekend that our Pennsylvania county loosened the restrictions on gatherings. (Ironically, their engagement session was my last session before the Covid stay-at-home orders were issued, and their wedding was my first to take place after the orders were lifted!) On this beautiful June Sunday, Jim and Kate’s closest family and friends gathered in their yard -and street- to witness their much-anticipated marriage. With a little help from some of their favorite local businesses, Jim and Kate’s wedding day vision went off without any hiccups. Even Mother Nature cooperated, and we were gifted the most amazing sunshine and blue skies!

Here are a few of my favorite photos of their celebration. Congratulations again, Stuckert-Rennix Family! It was such a joy to celebrate with all of you.

(But first, thank you to all of these vendors who worked together behind the scenes to make Jim and Kate’s wedding day absolutely perfect!)

Photographer: Carrie Kizuka Photography

Florist: Royer’s in Shillington

Cake: Unique Desserts Chef by Anne-Louise

Ice Cream Truck: Sweet Ride Ice Cream

Table, Tent, and Chair Rentals: Wolfe’s Rental

Boxed Lunches: Panera

Dress: BHLDN

Suits: Menguin

Colleen + Eli (+ Carly) | Intimate Camp Nawakwa, Biglerville Wedding | Adams County Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer

A few weeks ago, Colleen and Eli got married in an intimate outdoor ceremony in the forest. Everything from final preparations to the reception took place at Camp Nawakwa, a Lutheran camp located in Biglerville, PA. (It’s in Adams County, if you haven’t heard of it!) This was the second wedding I photographed at Camp Nawakwa, and I hope I get the chance to do many more - it is such an incredible, stunning location! The camp has special meaning to Colleen and Eli, as Eli’s mother works there and he spent much of his childhood hanging out there. I love when my photography backdrops have such special meaning to my couples, and I could tell that everyone felt right at home there, in the middle of this charismatic forest.

Colleen and Eli’s wedding was casual, simple, rustic, and so unique. They described their vibe as “forest formal”, and I think that’s really the best way to put it into words! The adorable flower girls and the ring bearer (their adorable doggo Carly) definitely stole my heart!

We started off with a few family formals and bride and groom portraits at the Upper Temple. Both the view from up there - and the wind - took my breath away! We snuck into the adjacent apple orchard for a few fun photos, and I still break out in laughter-tears when I look back at them. (Eli took my prompt to act like he was kidnapping Colleen very literally! You’ll see what I mean below. I’m in love with the unintentional outtakes!)

Then we made our way back down to Fischer Chapel for a few more formal portraits, followed by their ceremony. As a wedding photographer, I’ve attended more wedding ceremonies than I can count - and Colleen and Eli’s ceremony was one of the sweetest and most engaging that I have ever witnessed. It was a perfect reflection of their relationship and love for each other.

After working through some technical problems with the golf cart, we finished up our portraits at Crafts Hall. Their cocktail hour, reception, and the best (and only) Cookie Table I have ever laid my eyes upon took place at the camp Dining Hall. Apparently, Cookie Tables are a tradition in some parts of Western Pennsylvania, where each of the guests bring desserts to contribute. I hope I get to photograph - and taste - more of these in my future! (No tasting was done at this wedding, unfortunately.)

Congratulations again, Mr. and Mrs. Dolly (and Carly)! I wish you a lifetime of happiness and architectural adventures together.

Lisa + Collin | Tinicum Park Barn Summer Wedding | Bucks County, Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer

Lisa and Collin got married in June, and I’m so excited to share some of the photos from their Day #1 as husband and wife! If you are an avid blog follower, you may recognize Lisa and Collin from their Hershey Gardens engagement session. During our pre-wedding planning, they described their wedding vibe as romantic, soft, casual, simple, rustic, and fun. And, that’s exactly what their day turned out to be - with a few extra surprises thrown in for good measure!

I met Lisa and her bridal squad at her parents’ house in Quakertown, where her final preparations were taking place. I felt instantly at home as I saw some familiar faces (including a former bride of mine, Jackie)! Lisa’s engagement session last year doubled as a maternity session, and I was so excited to finally meet her little girl in person! (Violet has the most kissable cheeks I have ever seen, and was just as much a star of the show as her mommy and daddy that day!)

After some getting ready photos, hugs, and tears, we packed up and headed over to Tinicum Park Barn, where the ceremony and reception would take place. Lisa and Collin opted to have a first look, and it was so heartwarming. They are madly in love with each other, and their eyes absolutely lit up when they saw each other for the first time that day. We squeezed in a few portraits with the bridal party, and then it was time for the ceremony to begin.

Lisa and Collin’s engagement photoshoot took place on one of the hottest days of the year, and their wedding day turned out to be pretty warm as well. That heat, plus the excitement, plus the weight of carrying Violet as her “bouquet” led to Lisa fainting a few minutes into their ceremony. Luckily, the officiants and bridal party members acted quickly, and everything was fine. After a brief water break, the ceremony continued - but Lisa and Collin opted to proceed on chairs for a bit, just to be safe. Everything went as planned, and they concluded with a unity ceremony using puzzle pieces that Collin created himself!

After the ceremony, we snapped a few more photos, then gathered in the Tinicum Park Barn for some speeches, dances, and the most amazing dinner! Then, the rest of the evening was spent celebrating over drinks, conversations, and yard games - lots of yard games. (I love photographing giant Jenga and cornhole competitions, and this wedding didn’t disappoint!)

As I was packing up my car to go home, I noticed the most amazing golden hour sunlight peeking over the trees. I grabbed Lisa and Collin for a few extra photos, because that light - and their love for each other - was absolutely breathtaking that evening. I wouldn’t have forgiven myself if I left without taking advantage of it.

Thank you, Lisa, Collin, and Violet, for welcoming me into your lives. You have not only become clients, but also friends. I am so honored that I was asked to celebrate with you and your loved ones. I hope you enjoy this selection of memories from your wedding day.

Big thanks to the following people for pulling of Lisa and Collin’s dream wedding day:

Florist: Norma Strothers, Thorn & Petals

Hair & Makeup Artist: Hope Fischer, Images Salon & Spa

Wedding Dress Boutique: Melissa Sweet, David’s Bridal

Rentals: Jodi Fermier, Bucks Mont Party Rental

Officiants: Close friends Dustin Karrat and Renee Jonsson

Caterer: Mary Elcavage, The Cactus Grill

Photographer: Carrie Kizuka Photography, LLC

Emily + Courtney | Outdoor Tampa, Florida "Game Night" Wedding | Destination Wedding Photographer

I met Courtney and Emily a few years ago while I was photographing Hillary and Eric’s wedding. We kept in touch on instagram, and when Emily reached out to me about photographing her own wedding, I was ecstatic! So, a few months ago, Courtney and Emily flew me to Tampa, Florida to photograph their incredible celebration - and I completely forgot to blog it!! I dropped the ball, and I’m so mad at myself. It’s one of a long list of sessions that I failed to blog when life got crazy busy this past fall. I’m making up for it now and sharing a few of my favorite photos from their emotional and ridiculously fun wedding day!

While we were planning together, I asked Courtney and Emily to describe their wedding day vibe and they responded with the following: DIY, casual, simple, unique, fun, intimate, relaxed, personal, low-key, non-traditional, game night turned wedding. Now that their wedding day is here and gone, I have to say that I agree with all of those descriptors - and I want to add one of my own… perfection. Their wedding day was truly perfect, as it was a perfect reflection of their intimate relationship and their incredible love for each other.

Emily and Courtney’s preparations, ceremony, and reception all took place at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tampa. As it seems to be with most of the weddings I photograph, Mother Nature kept us on our toes that day. There were morning and early afternoon showers, followed by some of the most intense humidity I have ever experienced. If you are familiar with camera gear, you know that photographing in the air conditioning, followed by heat and extreme humidity can be quite tricky. However, I was prepared with multiple sets of gear, and everything went off without a glitch! After the rain left, we were gifted the most glorious Golden Hour light I have ever seen!

This was one of the most emotional wedding days I have been a part of, and I cried more times than I can remember. I was crying (happy tears) when they first saw each other at the beginning of their ceremony, during their personalized vows, as they lit their unity candle, and during the most heartfelt speeches I have ever witnessed during their reception. But, there was no shortage of smiles, either - courtesy of their amazing flower girl and ring bearer with the absolute best personalities, or during the reception which was actually just the raddest game night I’ve ever been a part of, or just the way that Courtney and Emily looked at each other all day long. Unfortunately, there were some loved ones unable to physically attend the ceremony, but you could feel their presence regardless. Love ruled the day, and I am so honored that I was able to celebrate Courtney and Emily’s marriage along with them and their dearest friends and family members.

Congratulations again, Courtney and Emily! I hope that married life is treating you both well, and I hope our paths cross again, either here in PA, down there in FL, or somewhere else fun!

Courtney and Emily’s wedding day was made possible by their own hard work, as well as the collaboration of these vendors:

Venue: Unitarian Universalist Church of Tampa

Officiant: Reverend Patricia (Rev P)

Hair artist: Christopher Trevena, Fame & Foils Color Bar

Makeup artist: Emily’s coworker Bella did her makeup, and Courtney did her own makeup

Courtney’s dresses: Torrid

Emily’s suit: Men’s Wearhouse

Cuban-inspired buffet and cakes: Moreno Bakery

Flowers: Costco & Pinterest

Emily’s bowtie & boutonniere: Etsy

Band/DJ: iTunes and an aux cord

Chair and table rentals: Fiesta Solutions

Lighting: Tampa Lighting

Amie + Greg | Meredith Manor Fall Wedding | Chester County, Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer

I had such an amazing time photographing Amie and Greg’s October wedding a few weeks ago! The weather was beautiful, and although it was a bit chilly that day, I remember feeling like it was the first day this year that actually REALLY felt like autumn.

When Amie reached out to me almost 2 years ago, asking if I would photograph her wedding, I ecstatically agreed! I have known Amie for longer than I will admit, since I was once her high school math teacher (in my pre-photographer life). I am filled with so much joy when former students contact me years later, asking me to document important milestones in their lives - especially when they have grown into such incredible adults, like Amie and Greg have done. Needless to say, I have been looking forward to this wedding for a long time - but probably not quite as long as Amie, Greg, and their loved ones have.

On the day of their wedding, we met up with Amie and Greg at the Hilton Garden Inn, in Exton, PA. I hung out with the girls while they finished getting ready, and my second photographer, Eric, photographed the guys. Everyone was so much fun, and the hotel provided the perfect backdrop and lighting for stunning photos!

Next, we headed to the Meredith Manor for the first look, portraits, ceremony, and reception. (The bridal party arrived via school bus - awesome, right!?!) This was my first time visiting Meredith Manor, and it didn’t disappoint! This venue is gorgeous, and has so many fantastic backdrops for photos. The staff was so helpful, and really went out of their way to make Amie and Greg’s day as perfect as it could be. Everything reflected their personalities and their relationship with each other, including the speeches, the decorations, and the excellent officiating by Amie’s own father! Amie and Greg’s wedding day vibe was romantic, classic, and formal, with a touch of rustic thrown in for good measure. When you see their photos, I think you’ll see what I mean!

Amie and Greg, thank you so much for inviting me to document these moments for you, and to celebrate your marriage with you. It was so nice seeing you, and reconnecting with some of my other former students (and couples)! I hope you enjoy this selection of photos from your Day #1 as husband and wife, and reliving these moments.

I would like to acknowledge all of the talented people and businesses who made Amie and Greg’s wedding dreams come true:

Photographer: Carrie Kizuka

Transportation: Metz Wilson Bus Service

Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn, Exton, PA

Wedding/Reception Venue: Meredith Manor

Wedding Coordinator: Mimi Reitz, Meredith Manor

Florist: Bridal Flowers - Jenna Shupp-Kemp, Exquisite Designs

Florist: Ceremony and Reception Flowers - Becky Reitz, B&E Floral Designs

Cake Artist: Bakers of Buffington

DJ: Chet Light, Musical Expressions

Hair & Makeup Artist: Prenup Beauty

Wedding Dress Boutique: BHLDN; Jolie; Catherine Dean

Bridesmaids’ Dresses Boutique: Adrianna Papell

Groom and Groomsmen’s Tuxedo Boutique: Tux by Sarno

Jess + Sean | White Chimneys Wedding | Lancaster Wedding Photographer

During my busiest months, I often fall behind in blogging so that I can dedicate as much time as possible to making sure my amazing clients get their images delivered quickly.  Jess and Sean's incredible wedding is one that I haven't blogged yet - but that's all changing now!

The first time I met Jess and Sean in person was when we shot their engagement portraits at Longwood Gardens.  (You can see those pictures by clicking here.)  They have so much love for each other, are incredibly kind and full of joy, and are so much fun to be around.  We hit it off right away, and I knew that their wedding was going to be one of my favorites to photograph!  When their wedding day rolled around last fall, my prediction was accurate - I had a blast!  Their ceremony and reception took place at White Chimneys, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.  Their DIY decor was a combination of romantic, casual, and rustic.  Their personalized vows and rope braiding ceremony reflected not only the strong love they have for each other, but also their strong faith.  I found myself giggling at the adorable "ring bears" that made their presence, and then I broke down in tears when I witnessed Sean's reaction as Jess walked down the aisle toward him with her dad.  (Give yourself a high five if you got that How I Met Your Mother reference!)

The fun continued throughout the portraits and the reception, too!  There was no shortage of toasts, laughter, or dancing... and a few special guests made their appearance on the dance floor as well!

Jess and Sean, thank you so much for asking me to capture your Day #1 as husband and wife.  You both deserve this Happily Ever After, and I'm honored that I was able to celebrate with you.  I hope you enjoy this selection of photos from their day.

This day wouldn't have been a success without the collaboration of these vendors:

Photographer:  Carrie Kizuka Photography, LLC

Second Photographer:  Bill Johns

Venue:  White Chimneys Estate

DJ:  Levi McCurdy, Sparxx Entertainment

Florist: Greta Bomgardner, Lace and Peonies Floral Design

Cake Artist: Patty, Cake Creators

Hair Artist: Lizz Maldonado

Makeup Artist: Marked by Tiffani Rose

Wedding Dress Boutique:  David's Bridal

Photo Booth:  Shining Star Photo Booth

Kailey + Kyle | The Barn at Silverstone Rustic Outdoor Lancaster Wedding | Berks County Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer

A few weeks ago, Kailey and Kyle got married and I was lucky enough to be there to document it all!  As soon as I met them at their consultation, I instantly realized how deeply in love they are, and I knew that their wedding day was going to be fabulous.  I have been looking forward to this day for almost a year - since way before their amazing engagement session that took place in Berks County at the Wyomissing Park last fall.

Kailey and Kyle's wedding and reception both took place at the Barn at Silverstone, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.  (All of the amazing vendors that worked together to make this day a success are listed at the bottom of this blog post!)  Their details and decorations were rustic, romantic, and simply beautiful.  Kailey and Kyle decided against having a first look, opting for the more traditional choice of waiting to see each other until Kailey was walking down the aisle.  I always love watching the groom's reaction as he sees his bride for the first time, and Kyle's reaction had me in tears.  He absolutely glowed when he set his eyes upon Kailey in her wedding dress, as she was escorted down the aisle by her proud father.  Their obvious love for each other had many of us in tears that afternoon.

Kyle's brother officiated the wedding ceremony, and immediately after their romantic bubble exit, we gathered around the stunning stone fireplace for family portraits.  I noticed that a few guests kept checking their phones and watches, and I quickly discovered the reason why - there was a storm approaching, and we were on borrowed time to finish up our outdoor photographs!

It turned out that luck was on our side that evening, and we finished all of the formal portraits just minutes before the sky opened up and gifted us a lucky wedding day downpour.  The rain didn't last long, and we made it back outside for a few more photographs right as the sun was setting.  It was a beautiful day all around, and the lucky thunderstorm just made it even more perfect.

Kailey and Kyle, I wish you both a lifetime of happiness together.  I can't thank you enough for trusting me to capture your Day #1 for you and your loved ones.

Wedding coordinator:  Katie Slauch, Stylish Occasions

Florist:  Amy Stein, Steins Flowers

Cake artist:  Ady Cakes

DJ:  Kevin High, The Party Express DJs

Hair artist:  Paulene Stromberg, Elle Hair Design

Makeup artist:  Belinda Carrol

Bride's and bridesmaids' dresses:  Darianna Bridal

Groom's and groomsmen's suits:  Jos. A. Bank

Bride's rings:  Neil Lane

Bride's shoes:  Michael Kors

Wedding and reception venue:  The Barn at Silverstone

Officiant:  Kyle's brother

Photography:  Carrie Kizuka Photography, LLC

Big thanks to Emilly Ziegler for second shooting with me for part of the day!

Camp Nawakwa Wedding | 2nd Shooting

I'm so grateful that I met Julie Hagenbuch earlier this year.  She is such a talented photographer and is one of the sweetest people I have ever met.  I grow as a photographer and a person whenever I get to work with her.  I recently had the honor of second shooting my third wedding with her, and it was incredible.  (I had no doubt that it would be!  She has a personality and talent that attracts clients who just ooze their in-loveness and who choose the most amazing venues!)

Alyssa and Matt's wedding preparation, ceremony, portraits, and reception all took place at Camp Nawakwa, located in Biglerville, Pennsylvania.  The wedding took place on an unseasonably hot September day, and was completely outdoors - but I was so wrapped up in the celebration that I didn't even notice the heat.  (And as a snow lover myself, that is saying a lot.)

Here are a few of my favorite photos from their Day #1 together.  I am so thankful that Julie asked me to second shoot this wedding with her, and very grateful that she has given me the okay to share a few of my images with the world.  It's always nice to meet colleagues in this industry who support community over competition.

Congratulations to Alyssa and Matt!  Thank you again to the incredible photographer and overall amazing human being Julie Hagenbuch.

Whitetail Lodge Wedding, Marysville PA | 2nd Shooting

A few weeks ago, I second shot an incredible wedding with the amazing Julie Hagenbuch!  This wedding was such a blend of cultures and personalities.  The service and celebrations were conducted in 3 languages - English, French, and sign language!!  I studied French for 5 years waaaaay long ago, and have forgotten most of it by now - but luckily, love can be understood in practically any language.  Guests came from all over the world to share Jamie and Aure's special day.  Within the first few minutes of meeting them, it's easy to understand why they are so loved.  Even though they got married on one of the hottest days of the year, I was too distracted by everyone's smiles and laughter to notice.

Here are a few photos that I captured from their day.  I'm so thankful that Julie asked me to second shoot for her and allowed me to share these images!  (Make sure you scroll through carefully for a special treat - it's not everyday that you get to experience a personal re-enactment of a commercial from a professional French shampoo model!)