All posts by elishakphoto

Wedding Day Tips, Wedding Photographers Indianapolis

How to Create the Perfect Wedding Day Timeline

Leave a comment

In this post, I will guide you through creating the perfect wedding day timeline if you aren’t working with a wedding planner. As a wedding photographer with over a decade of experience, I help my couples plan their best day ever with a detailed questionnaire to create their wedding photography timeline. Let’s dive in!

  • Why a solid wedding day timeline in essential
  • Key Components of a perfect wedding day timeline
  • Building your timeline step-by-step
  • Sample wedding day timelines (with and without a first look)
  • Customizing your unique wedding day
  • Common timeline pitfalls and how to avoid them
  • Photographer’s inside tips for picture perfect moments
  • Final Thoughts: Making your wedding day timeless

Why A Solid Wedding Day Timeline is Essential

Wedding days are a whirlwind of emotion, people, and logistics. A well thought out timeline isn’t a rigid plan designed to add stress to your day, it’s about freedom. It allows you to be present and really enjoy your day knowing that the flow is already handled. From coordinating family members to syncing with your vendors, a well thought out timeline serves as roadmap, preventing overlaps and delays that could derail your vision.

A good timeline minimizes stress because it creates buffers and breathing room for any mayhem that stands to derail your day, traffic, rain, that one sibling that is never on time.

Wedding days are finite. There are a set amount of hours in your venue and with your vendors. From a photographer’s perspective, I need the time to create the images that mean the most to you.

Key Components of a Perfect Wedding Day Timeline

Crafting the perfect timeline involves several key components that work together like puzzle pieces. Let’s break them down. When deciding on how much photography coverage you need, start at the ceremony and work forwards and backwards based on the hours you have budgeted for photography.

  1. Preparation Time: This includes hair, makeup, and getting dressed. Allocate 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the wedding party, and add a buffer. Putting on the dress takes longer than you think; consider adding 30 minutes for the dress, shoes, veil, and jewelry. With a second photographer groom and groomsmen getting ready can be covered at the same time. Pro-tips: make sure someone in the wedding party knows how to pin a boutonniere and have the dresses steamed before hair and makeup start.
  2. Travel and Transitions: Add 15-30 minutes of buffer time if you’re traveling between locations in Indianapolis. Even if you aren’t traveling between locations, allow a few minutes to transition from one thing to the next, say hello to loved ones, grab a drink of water, or take a bathroom break.
  3. Ceremony Block: Typically 30-60 minutes, plus setup. Consider giving yourselves a few minutes to be together after the ceremony is over to soak it all in, especially if you didn’t have a first look.
  4. Photo Sessions: Dedicate slots for family formals (Typically 4 minutes per grouping, allow 30-60 minutes total depending on the size of your family), wedding party (30-60 minutes), and couple portraits (15-45 minutes). Golden hour in Indiana, around 8 PM in summer, is prime for these. Photo-fatigue is real; consider limiting family formal groupings to those that mean the most to you. You can always grab informal photos with loved ones during the reception.
  5. Cocktail: Hour: Decide if you want to be present for cocktail hour, or if you want to finish portraits during that time, or just spend a little time alone together (especially if you didn’t have a first look.) You can also do a combination of any of the three. Regardless of what you decide, with a second photographer, the cocktail hour will have its own coverage.
  6. Reception Elements: Entrances, toasts, first dance, dinner, cake cutting, and open dancing. Unless you are planning an exit, we recommend about an hour of open-dance photography coverage.
  7. Buffer Zones: Add 10-15 minute cushions everywhere for overruns or emotional family hugs. Real moments (and photos) happen in the in-between.
  8. End-of-Night Wrap-Up: Are you planning an exit? Start having guests organize for the exit 15 minutes before you want it to happen. While everyone is getting in place creates a great time for a private last dance to soak in the final moments of the day.
Photo of the bride and groom making an exit on their wedding day at The Wilds.

Building Your Timeline Step-by-Step

Step 1: Start with the basics. Note your ceremony time and venue. Work backward and forward from there. If you’re planning an exit photo or any end of the night festivities those also must be taken into account. Pro-tip: If you want to do an exit photo before the end of the night we call it a “photo opportunity” and that generally prevents guests from thinking that the party is over.

Step 2: List all events. Jot down must-haves: Getting ready, photos, ceremony, reception activities. Prioritize non-negotiables like private vows. Factor in cultural elements or fun additions like a late night snack.

Step 3: Assign durations and include buffers. Examples: 30 minutes for the ceremony, 4 minutes per family formal grouping. Consider your energy levels: Introverted couples might want more downtime, while extroverts thrive on packed schedules. Factor in guest experience, shorter waits mean happier attendees.

Do you want small breaks for photos or are you hoping to get everything out of the way at once? Do you want golden hour sunset photos?

Unless you plan to mingle with your guests before you walk down the aisle everyone should be in hiding 30 minutes before the ceremony starts. That is the time when we can document the authentic moments between you and your wedding party before you walk down the aisle and your guests arriving.

Step 4: Coordinate with Vendors. Please share the drafts with everyone who needs to know, including hair and make-up. Every wedding is unique, so customize your timeline to reflect your story. Start by identifying what makes your day special perhaps a cultural ritual, pet inclusion, or themed activities.

Ultimately, customization ensures your timeline feels like you, not a generic template. Venues, caterer, DJ, and of course, your photographer. They will be able to edit anything you might have missed.

Step 5: Review and Revise: After your vendors have edited and confirmed the timeline, it’s ready to go!

Sample Wedding Day Timelines (With and Without a First Look)

Example of a timeline including a first look.

This allows ample photo time pre-ceremony, reducing post-ceremony rush.

Wedding timeline without a first look.

This preserves the surprise but compresses photos into evening hours. Adjust for your specifics, like this winter wedding with earlier sunsets.

Customizing Your Unique Wedding Day

Every wedding is unique, so customize your timeline to reflect your story, even if it breaks the traditional flow. Start by identifying what makes your day special.

You can start cocktail hour pre-ceremony and go straight into the party after you say, “I do.”

We’ve seen couples forego wedding parties and have their friends join them for a pre-ceremony brunch.

Maybe you want to do something a simple as a late night snack!

Ultimately, customization ensures your timeline feels like you and not another cookie-cutter wedding, but traditions speak to your heart, you should do what makes you happy.

Common Timeline Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

  • Underestimating Time: Travel between locations takes longer than expected. Avoid delays by adding buffers. If you’re providing group transportation for your wedding party, like a party bus or trolley, make space for a photographer, you’ll want the photos!
  • Overloading the Day: Too many events and a packed timeline lead to exhaustion. Prioritize and cut non-essentials. One of the ways we see this happen when couples are planning 4-5 first looks with various wedding party and family members. Consider a maximum of three first looks (that includes the one with your partner) and ask your photographer to capture the authentic reaction to anyone else seeing you for the first time.
  • Not Planning for the Weather: Rain can disrupt outdoor ceremonies or activities. Have indoor backups.
  • Family Dynamics: Pre-list family formal groupings and make sure everyone included knows where to be and when to be there. If necessary assign a wrangler. I help put together a list of the most common groupings for my couples and ask for any others they want documented on their wedding day. Excessive groupings and very large groups slow this part of the day, pick the ones that mean the most to you.
  • Late Starts: Hair/makeup often run late. Start earlier than you think.
  • No Breaks: Schedule breathing room. A quick restroom break should not derail the entire day.

Photographer’s Pro-Tips for Picture Perfect Moments

  1. Plan for Details: Allocate 30 minutes for ring/flower close-ups, flat lays, and the dress hanging during prep.
  2. Candid Over Posed: Build in unstructured time for authentic captures. Real moments (and some of the best photos) happen during the in-between.
  3. Don’t forget the dance floor! We highly recommend an hour of dance floor coverage. Pro-tip: If you want people on the dance floor make sure you are on it with them!

Final Thoughts: Making Your Wedding Day Timeless

In the end, a perfect timeline isn’t about rigidity; it’s about creating and and being present for the timeless moments that make your day. Your wedding day flies by, but with proper planning, you’ll be able to savor every second. As you build yours, remember: It’s your love story. Trust the process, lean on pros, and let the magic happen.

If you’re planning in Indianapolis, or anywhere, and need photo timeline guidance, reach out and let’s make your day picture-perfect.

Real Wedding Day

Mill Top Wedding Day

Leave a comment

Carly and Alex’s wedding day at Mill Top Banquet and Event Center was absolutely perfect.

Mill Top is a restored historic building with an industrial chic vibe located in downtown Noblesville, Indiana. The space beautifully blends rustic brick walls, exposed wood beams, iron finishes, and modern industrial details, making it sophisticated yet approachable. The venue stands out for its versatile multi-level layout and high-end amenities that make the entire wedding day feel seamless. Mill Top is known for its award-winning coordination team, 5-star amenities, and full-service experience. It’s à la carte, so you can customize packages to fit your needs (catering, bar, decor, etc.) The size of the venue allows for more than one wedding to take place on any given day, but for Carly and Alex, we had the whole building to ourselves.

I started in the bridal suite on the second floor with hair, makeup, and the details while Brian went downstairs to one of the first-floor man caves to cover some of the groom getting ready and get started on the groomsmen photos. The man caves are seriously so fun! There are a few of these relaxed spaces to choose from where the guys can hang out, play games, and get ready in comfort while the girls are in hair and make-up.

The groom’s mom brought Carly the cutest little wedding mice as a gift.

The couple chose to wait to see each other until the aisle, but did have a first touch and prayer with their wedding party before the ceremony. Milltop doesn’t have an outdoor ceremony space, but Seminary Park is just a 5-minute walk from the venue.

The moment Alex and Carly saw each other for the first time was nothing short of magical, and the blusher on Carly’s veil only added to it.

During the ceremony, the couple chose to have worship music played, followed by communion. The ceremony was beautiful, and more than a few happy tears were shed by Carly and Alex, their loved ones, and even this photographer.

We always love a dip at the end of the aisle!

After the ceremony, we completed the family formal list and wedding party photos. Because the couple didn’t have a first look, this was our first opportunity to capture the couple’s photos.

Cocktail hour was held on the venue’s first floor, while the reception was held in the Great Room on the third floor. The wedding party made their entrances, and it was time for dinner, buffet style, and delicious, served by Jacqui’s Gourmet Catering.

Right after dinner, we went up to the rooftop for sunset photos.

Carly and Alex wanted photos with all of their guests, so we called everyone up, table by table, for quick group shots before the speeches started. It was such a fast and fun way to include everyone!

The couple had an espresso bar to help keep guests caffeinated. They even had personalized coffee cups #loveyoumoore411

It was time for speeches by the two matrons of honor and best men. The bride’s sister and the groom’s brother as well as each of their childhood best friends.

The couple’s first dance was to Memory Lane by Old Dominion. Parent dances were shared by the bride, who danced with her dad and her stepdad, as well as the groom and his mom.

The Blue Water Kings started the party with an anniversary dance, a game where all the married couples share a dance until the band calls out how long they have been married. The last couple standing wins!

Our photo booth was enjoyed by all.

Carly and Alex are amazing humans surrounded by absolutely lovely family and friends, and it was such an honor to document their wedding day. We wish them a lifetime of love and adventure!

The wedding vendor team that made everything come together:

Photography, Videography, and Photobooth: ElishaKPhoto

Venue: Milltop Banquet and Conference Center

Ceremony: Seminary Park

Dress: Sophia’s Bridal

Florals: K.I.S Florals

Band: Blue Water Kings

Catering: Jacqui’s Gourmet Catering

Bakery: Classic Cakes

Espresso Bar: Coffee Wizard

Engagement Session Locations Indianapolis

10 Best Engagement Session Locations Around Indianapolis

Leave a comment

Looking for the perfect backdrop to celebrate and capture your love story in Indianapolis? As an Indianapolis wedding photographer, I’ve scouted, photographed, and fallen in love with dozens of stunning locations across the city and surrounding suburbs to answer the question, “Where should we take our engagement photos?”

Whether you dream of romantic European-style gardens, dramatic downtown skyline views, peaceful nature trails, artistic urban vibes, or charming small-town elegance, Indianapolis offers incredible variety for every couple’s style. The right location doesn’t just look beautiful in photos; it helps you relax, have fun, and create images that genuinely feel like you.

In this guide, I’m sharing my top 10 favorite (and most popular) places for engagement sessions around Indianapolis. Each spot includes practical details like permit requirements, seasonal highlights, and why it photographs so well. From the gardens at Newfields to the iconic energy of Monument Circle and the charm of Holliday Park ruins, these locations consistently deliver timeless, emotional, and magazine-worthy engagement photos.

Let’s dive in! Here are the 10 best places for engagement sessions in Indianapolis:

  1. Monument Circle

Monument Circle is the center of downtown Indianapolis and one of the most iconic spots for engagement sessions in the city. Centered around the towering Soldiers & Sailors Monument, this vibrant circular plaza offers dramatic neoclassical architecture, wide-open steps, grand columns, and sweeping views of the surrounding skyline, including the Salesforce Tower. As an Indianapolis wedding photographer, I love bringing couples here for images that feel bold, timeless, and unmistakably “Indy.” This space is easily paired with the nearby Indiana War Memorial and all the spaces in between. There’s something magical about sharing glances while the city gently pulses around you. The plaza can be lively during peak hours, but arriving during golden hour creates an intimate, cinematic feel that makes your engagement photos feel like they belong in a movie. No photography permit is required for outdoor sessions, making it an accessible and classic choice for couples who want their engagement photos to showcase their love for each other and Indianapolis.

2. Newfields

Newfields is a breathtaking haven of romance and timeless elegance. We consider it one of the most enchanting spots for engagement sessions in Indianapolis. This stunning 152-acre cultural campus feels like a European estate, featuring manicured gardens, terraces, blooming flower beds, fountains, sculptures, and the elegant Lilly House as a backdrop. As a photographer, I’m constantly inspired by the ivy-covered arches and the way golden hour paints the gardens in a warm glow, allowing me to create timeless, emotional images that feel straight out of a fairy tale. Popular spots include the grand terrace behind the Lilly House, the archways and bridge near the house, and the winding garden paths and gates. It also makes for a perfect date night space following your session and RH Indianapolis is only minutes away!

There is a $50 fee for photographing inside Newfields, which includes admission.

3. Eagle Creek Park

Fall Engagement session at Eagle Creek Park on the west side of Indianapolis
Artistic engagement photo captured in the Lily Lake area of Eagle Creek Park on the west-side of Indianapolis, Indiana.

Eagle Creek Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States and offers a gorgeous backdrop perfect for romantic and adventurous engagement sessions on the west-side of Indianapolis. Spanning over 5,300 acres with a 1,400-acre reservoir, wooded areas and trails, and waterfront spots, this gem delivers incredible variety for couples who love the outdoors. Can you picture you and your partner walking hand-in-hand along the paths, sharing kisses by the water’s edge, or embracing on one of the docks with the lake reflecting sunset light? Popular backdrops include the reservoir shoreline, Lily Lake area (stunning in fall when the leaves change color), bridges and trails through the woods, open fields for playful running shots, and occasional quiet piers. The park is dog-friendly, making it ideal if you want to include your pup in the session. For nature-loving couples who want their engagement photos to feel connected to the outdoors, adventurous, and deeply romantic, Eagle Creek Park is an unbeatable choice with endless spots to discover.

There is a vehicle entrance fee (around $6–$8, depending on residency)

4. Holilday Park

Holliday Park, six miles from downtown near Broad Ripple, is one of Indianapolis’s oldest parks and offers a romantic blend of dramatic ruins and woodlands that makes it one of the most unique locations for engagement sessions in the city. This 94-acre park features the Holliday Park Ruins, striking stone columns and arches salvaged from a historic New York building, creating an almost European ruin-like backdrop that adds texture and a touch of mystery to your photos. The park also includes over 3.5 miles of scenic trails winding through beech-maple forests and native gardens. For nature-loving couples who want engagement photos that feel adventurous, artistic, and romantic with a unique historic twist, Holliday Park delivers endless variety and unforgettable images.

5. CoxHall Gardens

Coxhall Gardens in Carmel is a stunning 125-acre park that feels like a garden escape, making it one of the most popular and versatile locations for engagement sessions just north of Indianapolis. This beautifully manicured Hamilton County park features a stone amphitheater, bridges over reflective ponds and a recreation lake, weeping willow trees, a historic brick mansion, and even twin 90-foot bell towers that chime hourly. I’m always excited to shoot here because the variety allows for everything from elegant portraits on the amphitheater steps or bridges to, dreamy moments under the willow trees and playful, candid shots across the open lawns. Popular backdrops include the central amphitheater and bridge area, the willow trees near the water (perfect for intimate, romantic shots), the mansion and reflecting pond for classic elegance, and the boardwalk through prairie grasses for a more natural feel. The park offers free parking and is easy to access. It also photographs beautifully year-round. For couples who want engagement photos that blend refined elegance, natural beauty, and romance in a polished setting, Coxhall Gardens consistently delivers timeless images with incredible variety in one beautiful location.

6. Fountain Square

Fountain Square brings artsy vibes and urban energy to engagement sessions in Indianapolis, making it a favorite for couples who want photos that feel fun, creative, and full of personality. Located southeast of downtown, this eclectic neighborhood features bold street murals, historic brick buildings, the iconic Fountain Square Theatre with its retro marquee, and quirky public art. I love capturing the genuine connection between couples here, strolling along Shelby Street, sharing laughs in front of colorful murals, or stealing kisses with the glowing theatre marquee in the background. The area offers a mix of urban textures, alleyways, and open plazas that create editorial-style images with a cool, artistic edge. No photography permit is required for outdoor sessions in public areas, and street parking or nearby lots make it easy to access. It’s especially photogenic in the evening when lights start to twinkle, and you can easily extend your session with dinner or drinks at one of the many nearby restaurants and breweries for a date night afterward. For couples who want engagement photos that reflect a fun, creative, and distinctly Indianapolis vibe, Fountain Square delivers.

Highland Park, perched on a hill in Indianapolis’ Holy Cross neighborhood, offers one of the most romantic skyline views for engagement sessions in the city and is only minutes from Fountain Square, allowing you to incorporate green spaces and the city skyline into your engagement photos. This charming public park provides sweeping panoramic vistas of downtown Indianapolis, especially stunning during golden hour when the city lights begin to sparkle. The elevated setting creates depth and scale in photos, while the open green space allows for both posed and candid shots. Highland Park delivers breathtaking, elevated views that feel both intimate and grand.

7. Bottleworks District

Champagne Pop engagement session photo outside the Bottleworks Hotel in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Bottleworks District delivers modern-urban vibes with a cool industrial edge, making it one of the most stylish and energetic locations for engagement sessions in Indianapolis. This revitalized historic area , once home to the Coca-Cola Bottling Company, now blends preserved 1920s architecture, exposed brick walls, cobblestone streets, colorful murals, oversized garage doors, string lights, and sleek contemporary design into a photogenic playground just steps from Mass Ave. I love capturing couples here strolling hand-in-hand down brick streets under twinkling lights, sharing laughs and kisses in front of bold street art, or embracing against the dramatic industrial backdrop and reflective windows. The area offers incredible variety, from editorial-style shots in the open plazas and alleys to playful, lifestyle moments at The Garage food hall (think grabbing ice cream or pizza mid-session) or fun games at Pins Mechanical.

Parking can fill up quickly. Plan to arrive early and budget $5–$25 for street, lot, or garage options. Bottleworks District is perfect for couples who want engagement photos that feel fun, creative, stylish, and authentically “Indy,”

8. Holcomb Gardens at Butler University

Holcomb Gardens at Butler University is a serene escape tucked away on Indianapolis’ near-north side, offering a romantic and versatile setting for engagement sessions in the city, but you don’t need to be a Butler alumnus to appreciate it. Spanning about 20 acres of gardens and woodland overlooking the historic Central Canal, this gem features manicured hedges, lawns, a pond, bridges, and the enchanting Poets’ Corner, a cozy stone niche with benches inscribed with famous literary quotes. I’m continually drawn to the romantic weeping willow trees draping over the water, and the mix of elegance and natural areas that create layered backdrops for your love story. Popular spots include the bridge and canal views, the pond area for dreamy reflections, the wide grassy mall lined with hedges and allées of trees, and shaded garden paths perfect for candid strolls. No professional photography permit is required for outdoor sessions here, and free parking is available nearby on campus.

9. Indianapolis Canal Walk (and White River State Park)

The Indianapolis Canal Walk and its surrounding areas offer urban sophistication for engagement sessions in downtown Indianapolis. This scenic 3-mile pedestrian path follows the historic Central Canal, featuring calm water reflections, arched bridges, tree-lined walkways, and views of the downtown skyline, including the iconic JW Marriott and Salesforce Tower, and all of the surrounding architecture. You will love how the canal creates a romantic, canal-city atmosphere right in the heart of Indy. Surrounding areas like White River State Park add even more variety with open green spaces, cultural landmarks (such as the Indiana State Museum and Eiteljorg Museum), and additional waterfront views. No professional photography permit is required for outdoor sessions along the public Canal Walk or most of White River State Park, making it an accessible and budget-friendly choice. Street parking, nearby garages, or metered spots are available, but plan ahead as downtown can get busy. For couples who want engagement photos that feel both timelessly romantic and proudly connected to downtown Indianapolis, mixing city energy with peaceful canal-side moments, the Canal Walk and surrounding areas deliver an incredible variety of images in one convenient, walkable location.

10. Carmel City Center

Carmel City Center offers a charming mix of polished urban elegance and small-town warmth, making it a delightful and accessible location for engagement sessions just north of Indianapolis. This city center features clean brick streets, whimsical statues of people in everyday scenes, elegant architecture around the Carmel City Center and The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts, manicured gardens with seasonal flowers, and nearby green spaces. You can easily combine downtown with nearby spots like the Monon Trail for greenery, the Cake Bake Shop exterior for a touch of Parisian charm, or quick walks to Central Park or West Park for boardwalks, bridges, and meadows. No professional photography permit is typically required for outdoor public areas in downtown Carmel. Parking is convenient and often free in public garages or along the streets. The location photographs beautifully year-round. For couples who want engagement photos that feel elegant and fun, blending architecture, artistic touches, and a welcoming small-city energy, downtown Carmel delivers versatile backdrops for your engagement session.

No matter where you choose to document this chapter of your love story, on or off this list, we will create beautiful engagement photos that feel authentic to you. The most meaningful sessions often happen in places that already hold special significance: your favorite downtown coffee shop, the place where you had your first date, the neighborhood you call home, or even at the exact venue where you’ll say “I do.” As your photographer, I’m happy to scout new locations. Whether your style leans romantic and garden-inspired, bold and urban, adventurous, or quiet and intimate, the goal is the same: to capture genuine connection in a way that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

If one of these locations speaks to you, or if you have a special place in mind that isn’t on the list, I’d love to chat about bringing your vision to life. Reach out today, and let’s find the perfect backdrop for your love story and start planning your engagement session. Comment below with your favorite!

Church Wedding and Sagamore Reception

Church Wedding | Sagamore Golf Club Reception

Leave a comment

The morning of Maria and Austin’s perfect wedding day began with an all too typical March shower in Indiana. Thankfully, the rain quickly cleared, leaving behind pleasant temperatures perfect for an early-spring wedding. The entire wedding party chose to prepare at the church, allowing for a seamless flow of photos. I started by capturing the thoughtful details, rings, flowers, and shoes, before moving on to the getting-ready moments filled with laughter and anticipation. Maria added a touching personal element by wearing her mom’s favorite cross as her “something borrowed.”

The highlight of the pre-ceremony timeline was the first look in front of the church, where Maria and Austin saw each other for the first time that day. Opting for a first look gave Maria and Austin a private, intimate moment to see each other before the ceremony.

With the timeline running slightly ahead of schedule, we efficiently completed many of the wedding party photos and all the family formals right in the sanctuary. One thing I love is documenting real connections between family members in addition to the posed photos everyone expects to see on a wedding day.

Maria and Austin’s wedding was a beautiful celebration of love, family, and faith, centered at Noblesville Baptist Church in Noblesville, Indiana. The day was made even more special because the bride’s grandfather, who had baptized both Maria and Austin, officiated the ceremony, adding a deeply personal and heartfelt touch to the day.

Following the heartfelt ceremony, the couple greeted guests in a classic receiving line. This timeless tradition allows the newlyweds to personally thank every attendee, offering quick hugs, smiles, and words of gratitude. It’s an efficient yet meaningful way to ensure no one is missed during the excitement of the reception. Each interaction is brief but warm, creating a personal connection before the celebration moves to the next phase. Adding a receiving line can take up more space in the timeline.

Before leaving the church, we had one more photo to capture, one captured by her grandmother and then her mother. There is something so special about recreating wedding photos from the generations before.

Then it was time to head to The Sagamore Club in Noblesville for the reception. This elegant private country club, featuring a renowned Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, provided a stunning backdrop with its rolling greens, timeless architecture, and sophisticated indoor spaces. The venue offered a perfect blend of upscale charm and natural beauty for the party.

Upon arrival, we wrapped up the remaining wedding party portraits and squeezed in a few impromptu family groupings. While a classic golden hour sunset didn’t materialize, the sky delivered its own gorgeous display of dramatic colors and dark clouds, making for equally memorable photos.

Maria and Austin’s love story began online, with Maria in Noblesville and Austin in Wisconsin. They connected through a shared video game, and their first in-person meeting was witnessed by the bride’s matron of honor, her cousin, who has been by Maria’s side since childhood. In her speech, she fondly recalled their early days playing Barbies and sipping “pink milk,” and how their bond endured even after she moved to California. The matron of honor’s daughter served as the flower girl, and Maria had been there for her birth, adding another layer of family history. Her words brought both laughter and tears as she lovingly assured everyone that Maria had truly found “her person.”

The best man shared a touching reflection on his lifelong friendship with Austin, starting from their childhood, and expressed his genuine happiness that his friend had met his perfect match.

The couple cut into their elegant wedding cake, joined by a separate groom’s cake, a Southern tradition with roots in Victorian England. Originally a denser, richer cake (often fruitcake laced with liquor to symbolize strength), the groom’s cake evolved in the American South as a personalized dessert reflecting the groom’s tastes or hobbies. It provides a fun, secondary flavor option and has become a creative way to honor the groom. Maria and Austin enjoyed this sweet moment before the real party began.

The dance floor was electric all night, with guests of all ages joining in the fun. The photo booth was a huge hit, capturing silly poses and candid memories that everyone loved.

The groom’s grandparents hit the dance floor, moments that for sure need to be documented on camera.

The bride included a bouquet toss in the reception festivities. It was enthusiastically caught by one of her bridesmaids, who happens to be engaged to her brother.

As the evening wound down, Maria and Austin shared one last dance before making their exit, surrounded by family, friends, and well-wishes, ready to begin their new chapter with a honeymoon in sunny Florida.

It was an unforgettable day filled with love, laughter, meaningful traditions, and the warmth of family and friends, exactly what they wanted their wedding day to be. Congratulations to Maria and Austin!

Wedding Day Tips, Wedding Photographers Indianapolis

How To Get a Photo with All Your Wedding Guests: The Table Dash

While you are meticulously planning all the details of your perfect wedding day (and guest list) there is a reception event you may want to consider, the table dash. This wedding trend will allow you to capture a fun photo with all of your wedding guests in less than five minutes.

The photo dash is curated between your DJ and me, usually after the grand entrance. During the length of one song, we sprint from table to table capturing a photo at each table. You get a photo with every wedding guest at your beautifully decorated tables but by the nature of doing it at a sprint, the photos are more fun, and candid and they take less time. An announcement has been made and everyone is already in their seats so you don’t have to worry about someone wandering off to the bar or the bathroom.

A Table Dash in Three Steps

  1. Choose the perfect song. You will want at least 3 minutes and 30 seconds. We have always been able to complete the dash inside of one song but if we didn’t finish we can always have the song start over.
  2. The DJ will make an announcement to have everyone take their seats. This insures that everyone is in their seats, no one is in the bathroom or at the bar.
  3. Your perfect song starts and we rush from table to table taking a photo with every guest at your wedding.

The result: You get a photo with all of your wedding guests and everyone has fun.

You can always go the traditional route of visiting every table during dinner. This does take significantly longer and there is no guarantee that everyone will be at the table for me to take a photo. If a friend or family member holds you up you might run out of time to visit every table. Additionally, there are generally people eating and dirty plates on the tables.

Ritz Charles Wedding Day

Ritz Charles Chapel and Garden Pavilion | Wedding Day

Sarah and Jack are absolutely lovely humans who were surrounded by adoring friends and family on their unseasonably warm February wedding day. The bride’s mom had been married in a blizzard almost 30 years ago leading her to by wedding insurance, probably insuring that her daughter’s wedding day would be gorgeous.

The bride and groom met at a party while attending Ball State and while on a cruise Jack asked Sarah to marry him with a Tiffany & Co ring. Months of planning led to this day at the elegant Ritz Charles in Carmel, Indiana.

The wedding party got ready at Hyatt Place. The hotel is so close to the venue that they share a parking lot. We started the day photographing the details while the bridal party laughed and chatted in matching pajamas while getting hair and makeup ready. The bride’s fragrance of choice for her wedding day was “I Do” by Anthropologie.

The groom’s details are important too. He pinned this photo of his late grandfather into his suit so that he would carry him with him on this very special day.

While the Ritz Charles offers multiple beautiful ballrooms for a wedding day celebration the couple chose the chapel for their ceremony and the stunning Garden Pavilion for their reception. The Garden Pavillion allows for so much natural light, it’s a photographer’s dream.

Sarah and Jack wanted to see each other before the ceremony so we had a first look on the patio outside of the pavillion. The photos tell the story better than any words I could write.

Because the couple chose to do a first look we had time to do the bridal party photos before the ceremony.

The ceremony was held in the chapel and the officiant was the bride’s cousin. During the nuptuials the couple chose to have a ring warming ceremony. The wedding rings were passed between the members of the wedding party, as they held them in their hands they imbue them with their love and blessings for the couple so that when the couple puts them on they will carry the positive energy of their loved ones with them.

After the ceremony we took a few photos with the couple.

We came into the garden pavillion for the first dance, cake cutting and dinner.

The parent dances.

Speeches by the maid of honor and the best man.

The couple chose to have an anniversary dance, this is a tradition where couples of all ages are brought to the dance floor. As music plays the DJ dismisses couples from the dance floor based on the length of time they have been married until only the couple married the longest remains dancing.

We left as the bride and groom celebrated on the dance floor before leaving for their honeymoon cruise the next day.

Sarah and Jack’s wedding day was made possible by this incredible vendor team:

Black Iris Estate Weddings, Uncategorized

Black Iris Estate | Indianapolis Wedding Day

Ring detail photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
detail photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride with grandma Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride getting ready Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Wedding shoes Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride wearing grandma's pearls Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Groom getting ready Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride dress and hanger Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
boutonnière Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Groom tying shoes Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
first look with wedding party Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
First look with wedding party Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
First look with dad Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride's first look with dad Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride's first look with brother Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride's first look with brother Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
First Look Bride and Groom Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Wedding photographer captures groom's reaction first look Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Wedding photographer captures groom's reaction first look Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Wedding photographer captures groom's reaction first look Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
groom's reaction first look Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride's bouquet photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Willow Chapel Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Cool groomsmen photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Fun wedding party photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride with wedding party photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Flower girls Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Flower Grannies photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride walking down the aisle escorted by both parents Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Crying groom photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Ceremony in Willow Chapel Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bubble Exit Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bubble exit photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride and groom kiss in the aisle Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Veil photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Floating veil photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride and groom Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Bride and groom photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Place setting detail photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Centerpiece photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Centerpiece photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Ballroom Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Cake cutting photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Cake cutting photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Cake cutting photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Cake cutting photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Toasting photo Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
First dance Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
First dance Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
First dance Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Father daughter dance Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Father daughter dance Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Father daughter dance Black Iris wedding Carmel, Indiana
Mother son dance Black Iris Estate Carmel, Indiana
Mother son dance Black Iris Estate Carmel, Indiana
Groom dances with grandma Black Iris Estate Carmel, Indiana
Groom dances with grandma Black Iris Estate Carmel, Indiana
Groom dances with grandma Black Iris Estate Carmel, Indiana
Champagne pop photo Black Iris Estate Wedding Day Carmel, Indiana
Champagne pop photo Black Iris Estate Wedding Day Carmel, Indiana
Champagne pop photo Black Iris Estate Wedding Day Carmel, Indiana
Champagne pop photo Black Iris Estate Wedding Day Carmel, Indiana
Dancing photos Black Iris Estate wedding day Carmel, Indiana
Dancing photos Black Iris Estate wedding day Carmel, Indiana
Dancing photos Black Iris Estate wedding day Carmel, Indiana
Dancing photos Black Iris Estate wedding day Carmel, Indiana

Payton and Jacob met in college. They were friends first, even giving each other relationship advice before finally ending up together. Jacob proposed in the fall of 2020 and the couple spent nearly two years planning their perfect wedding day.

It was obvious from the moment we arrived at Black Iris Estate in Carmel, Indiana that Payton and Jacob’s loved ones were ready to celebrate and make sure this couple had their best day ever. It wasn’t just a wedding day, the day was shared with Payton’s grandma Martha who cebrated her 84th birthday as a member of the wedding party. She one of the couple’s “flower grannies.”.

We started our day photographing the details. The bride planned to walk down the aise in a stunning pair of Manolo Blahniks. I had seen them on her Instagram and was soooo excited to photograph them.

Every time someone was about to cry (and there were a lot of tears!) they would say “Dali lama”. The bride’s mom presented her with a piece of lace from her wedding dress and a photo of Payton with her late grandfather to tie around her bouquet. Even I had to say Dali Llama. Payton was joined in the getting ready room by her mom, two aunts, and grandma. She wore grandma Martha’s pearls.

Payton’s wedding party included Jacob’s sisters and her best friend’s throughout her life. Jacob’s side of the party included his brothers as well as Payton’s brother. His best man was his brother Teddy. The bride had a first look with her bridesmaids, her dad, her brother, and finally her husband.

The couple had their ceremony in the Willow Chapel at Black Iris Estate. This is an absoloutely incredible outdoor ceremony space. A string quartet played as Payton was walked down the aisle by both her mom and dad. Jacob cried when he saw Payton, even after a first look. They ended the ceremony with a bubble exit.

The couple chose Heavenly Sweets to bake their wedding cake and Payton was really looking forward to desert. They skipped cutting the cake all together and shared their first bites with forks.

The bride and groom took dance lessons leading up to their wedding day for their first dance. The bride and her dad also took dance lessons for a fabulous cheorographed father daughter dance. The groom danced with his mom and grandma Martha. The dance floor opened with the anniversary dance and in lieu of a bouquet toss the bride gave the toss bouquet to the couple who had been married the longest, her aunt and uncle came in the winners at 45 years.

Jacob’s family had some reception traditions including an absolutely incredible group dance to Paradise by the dashboard lights by Meatloaf and a Polish flag has been at 144 family weddings. The rest of the night was filled with dancing.

We didn’t get a sunset for photos but the bride was ready with a bottle of champagne for champagne pop photos and they turned out completely amazing!

We are so honored that Payton, Jacob and their families trusted us to capture this incredible wedding day, they are truly lovely humans. We wish them a lifetime of love and adventure with their cat army.

If you’re looking for a venue in Carmel, Indiana Black Iris Estate is exceptional. The staff brought this day together flawlessly.

Thank you to the amazing vendor team that brought this day to life, Payton referred to her vendors as her “Dream Team.” You were all wonderful to work with. Black Iris Estate, Bokay Florist, Heavenly Sweets, DJ Joe Sheets, Clark Videography, The Wedding Studio Carmel, Minted, Indy Limo rental, MUA Lori Boykin, Hair Stylist Maggie Flemming.

Engagement Photos, Engagement Session, Indianapolis Engagement photographer, Uncategorized

Indianapolis Engagement Session | Newfields

A personalized denim pearl embellished shirt or jacket is the perfect accessory for your engagement session.
Engaged couple walking through the gates during their session at Newfields.
Engagement picture captured during an engagement session at Newfields.
Engaged couple running in front of the Lily House at Newfields in Indianapolis.
The dip pose captured during an Indianapolis engagement session.
bride-to-be leads her fiancée in an engagement picture captured at Newfields in Indianapolis.
Engagement picture captured where the groom proposed to his fiancee.
Black and white engagement picture captured by the couple's engagement photographer in Indianapolis.
Sunflower engagement photo captured at Newfields in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Engagement session Newfields.
Engagement picture Indianapolis, Indiana.
Engagement photo captured during an engagement session at Newfields in Indianapolis.
Airplane pose engagement picture captured at Newfields.
Engagement picture captured behind the Lilly House at Newfields.
Engagement picture on the bridge at Newfields.

Amanda and Dalton had so many reasons to choose Newfields for their engagement session. Dalton proposed to Amanda in front of Lilly House and they captured their first picture as a couple there to name a few.

Amanda wore a super cute white dress that tied in the back, a denim Mrs. Guter shirt embellished with pearls and heels. This girl can do all the walking in heels! Dalton wore a white shirt with lobsters on it to start the session. (If you know the Friends reference you know. They hold the claws!) They changed into their more casual option, Amanda only had one shoe with her so we captured the end of the session with her barefoot.

Newfields has no lack of beautiful backdrops and every time we shoot there we find new places to capture amazing engagement pictures. During this session, we found a willow tree and as I wondered out loud if we could get inside it Amanda discovered that we could! We wandered through the property taking photos until it closed.

Amanda and Dalton ended their night with a date at Applebees, because they’re Fancy Like. We are always so happy when our couples take time to connect with each other following their session. If you’re already dressed up take advantage of it!

We completely adore this couple and are so honored that they have trusted us to photograph their love story as they are photographers themselves. (No pressure!) They are so much fun to work with and their interactions with each other make amazing photos. We are so excited for their April wedding day.

If you are looking for a beautiful location for your engagement session in Indianapolis, Newfields is absolutely perfect! The property is full of gardens with blooming flowers, and a nature park, and while photography is not permitted inside the historic Lilly House the outside architecture is stunning.

An engagement session is a fabulous way to document this chapter in your love story. It gives us an opportunity to work together before your wedding day and for you to get comfortable in front of the camera.

Wedding Day Tips, Wedding Photographers Indianapolis

8 Tips for getting through the hardest part of your wedding day: The Family Formals

This is the part of the wedding day where we capture the formal posed photos everyone expects to see in the final gallery. The photos of the bride with her mom and dad, the bride and groom with mom, dad, siblings, etc.

Family pictures, Indianapolis wedding photographer

These photos may not necessarily be the most fun to organize but they are often some of the most treasured after your wedding day is done. It’s not very often we have all of our loved ones dressed up and in the same place.

Family formals, Indianapolis wedding photographer

As a wedding photographer, it is my goal to capture these photos quickly, get you to the reception, and have some fun along the way. Here are eight tips for making that happen.

  1. Tell everyone where they need to be and when. If you know your brother always runs late, tell him to be there a little early.
  2. Have a people wrangler (or two) who know the important people and can help get everyone where they need to be. Every family has stragglers.
  3. Let me know beforehand the names of everyone you want photographed. It’s a lot easier to call your family members up by name and let the group know whose on deck. I send out a questionnaire two months before your wedding day asking for this information.
  4. Make sure you have included enough time on your timeline. Each family grouping takes about 4 minutes. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time taking photos on your big day capture your immediate family during the portrait portion and have the DJ make announcements for the larger groups at the reception.
  5. Are there any family situations I need to be aware of? Are there divorced parents who would prefer not to be photographed together? I would hate to create an awkward situation for anyone. I ask about these in that questionnaire I mentioned earlier.
  6. Know where you want to capture these photos or if you want (I’m happy to scout a locations if you need me to). If you choose an outdoor location ideally we want a space where the sun won’t be shining directly into your eyes and make sure to have a rain plan.
  7. Whenever possible start with grandparents and small children. I won’t make your grandparents stand around waiting for their turn, we want them to be able to sit comfortably as soon as they are finished. Small children have short attention spans and are the least likely to cooperate for long periods of time. If we don’t get the shot we want initially we have the opportunity to try again later.
  8. This is not a time for family members to take iphone photos. Everyone needs to know where to look and you will want all eyes on my camera. If I have to pause in between family groupings for aunt Sue to snap a pic this part of your wedding day will take so much longer, frustrating everyone involved and keeping you from your party. You can give your family access to the professionally edited gallery when it is delivered post wedding day and if any family member wants iPhone photos they are welcome to capture those after I am finished or at the reception.
Wedding day Family photos, Indianapolis wedding photographer.

Unless your family naturally lines up in perfect lines this is a part of the day where I will take complete creative control. This is one of the reasons why you hire a professional photographer. I will direct everyone to pose in the most flattering way possible and to stand where they will be seen in the photos.

Wedding day family formals. Indianapolis wedding photographer.

During the family formal portion of the wedding day we will only capture photos including the bride and groom. If wedding guests would like photos that don’t include you we are happy to take those during the cocktail hour or reception. I always try to get photos of your parents and grandparents at other points during your wedding day. It has likely been a long time since they have had a professional portrait taken.

Photo of parents alone, Indianapolis wedding photographer

The goal is to take images you will treasure forever and let you enjoy your day.

Indianapolis Rehearsal Dinner, Wedding Photographers Indianapolis

5 Reasons to have your Wedding Photographer at Your Rehearsal

Your rehearsal dinner is a time to run through your wedding ceremony and share a celebratory meal with your family and your wedding party. This event typically occurs a day or so before your wedding. Often you have the practice at your venue and dinner at a restaurant, though sometimes you are able to do everything in the same location.

1. It gives you a chance to get comfortable with me and my camera around.

Most people tell me how awkward it is to have their picture taken, even when they tell me their wedding photos are the most important thing to them. If you have photography coverage for your rehearsal dinner I will be there with my camera for a couple of hours. Then, when I show up on your wedding day to take photos you are comfortable with me around.

Photo captured of the rehearsal
Indianapolis rehearsal dinner covered by wedding photographer

2. You have another chapter of your wedding story documented

Your engagement is such a special time in your love story and the rehearsal dinner marks the end of it. This is an event you will want to document through photos.

Fun photo captured at rehearsal dinner by the wedding photographer
Bride and group celebrate with their wedding party at the rehearsal dibber.
Wedding photographer captures images at rehearsal dinner.

3. I can learn who all your important people are by name.

Why is this important? People love to be addressed by their names and it gives me a chance to learn them all. That way, when I am taking photos on your wedding day we all know each other and I can address all your important people by name. Especially during the wedding party and family formal portions of the wedding day.

Indianapolis wedding photographer covers rehearsal dinner.

4. I can get a feel for your layout and how to create the best wedding day images for you.

Even if I’ve captured weddings at your venue a hundred times your wedding day is unique. Capturing your run-through allows me to see your perfect vision for your best day ever. It also gives me time to think about your venue over a day or so, allowing me to come up with creative ideas for your wedding images.

Wedding photographer capture images of bride and groom spraying champagne at the rehearsal dinner.
bride drinking champagne at rehearsal dinner

5. We can create photos like this without a looming timeline.

Depending on how your wedding day goes we could run tight on time for fun photos. Additionally, you could grow tired of having your picture taken or maybe you just want to enjoy your party. Your rehearsal dinner is the perfect time to capture a few extra images.

Champagne pop photo

Unfortunately, I am not always available to capture rehearsal dinners due to my wedding schedule. If you want rehearsal dinner coverage we book 8 weeks in advance.