In a year of changing plans, Mary Kate & Kevin’s wedding was no exception. Yet, in the midst of the shuffling and replanning, they managed to create a beautiful wedding day at the Joseph Ambler Inn while capturing some portraits at their original venue, the Bluestone Country Club. Their spirits weren’t dampened by the abbreviated guest count, they were just excited to get married on their original wedding date, and plan an epic party for the same time next year.
Getting Ready at Home & The Joseph Ambler Inn
When we arrived at the parents of the bride’s house, we were welcomed into a wonderfully familiar sight. Bridesmaids getting their hair and makeup done, and an excited bride who couldn’t wait to show us around. She took us upstairs and laid out all her beautiful details, and whisked away to get finishing touches. The lovely invitation suite from April Lynn Designs included a blush pink wax seal, and the classic color scheme was elegant to the utmost. We loved all the little details, but the showstopper was her utterly stunning Morilee wedding gown from Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo. The sheer and oh so delicate lace was gorgeous, and we couldn’t wait for her to get into it.
Once everything was all set, we opened the “forbidden door” (the door her dad wasn’t allowed to open) and Mary Kate slipped into her gorgeous gown with the assist from her mom. By the way, her mom’s dress was gorgeous too! Mary Kate was full on bride, and ready for her first look with her dad. When she came out the front door, he was all smiles. His little girl on her wedding day, a moment every father dreads and eagerly anticipates in perfect tension. Everyone was ready, it was time to head to church.
Meanwhile, at the Joseph Ambler Inn, Kevin was getting himself wedding ready as well. His sharp tux, also from Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo fit perfectly. His step-mom was on hand to help pin his boutonniere, a job that always catches folks by surprise. The rest of the guys were relaxing and having a couple brews, until it was their turn to dress and get their flowers pinned. When the limo arrived to pick them up, they were all set and ready to stand by their buddy as he married the love of his life.
The Ceremony at Mary Mother of the Redeemer Church
Folks arrived wearing masks, the hand sanitizer was used frequently, and the pews were staggered with family units sitting together. People were so respectful of the couple’s wishes for everyone to be safe, and it was really great to see. It made the moment when Mary Kate entered the room with her father even more special.
Their traditional Catholic ceremony united their hearts in marriage, and they were soon pronounced husband and wife. They shared such a sweet kiss and were utterly beaming as they walked back down the aisle together as Mr and Mrs.
We quickly dispensed of the family formals at the church and then we were off to Bluestone Country Club for portraits.
Portraits at Bluestone Country Club
The little courtyard at Bluestone Country Club was a fantastic place to start with wedding party portraits. Everyone was eager to have their chance for a picture with the newlyweds and then head back to the bus to grab refreshments while Mary Kate and Kevin had their portraits.
Mary Kate had a little extra flair to bring yet. She brought out a lovely overskirt that made her dress completely different. It was a full skirted fluffiness that gave the appearance of her floating on a cloud. Once we’d captured the beauty, we went back to the original dress and wandered the grounds for some photos. The grounds were beautiful and these two are so in love that the photos were a breeze. Then we high-tailed it to the Joseph Ambler Inn for the reception.
The Reception at the Joseph Ambler Inn
It was a low-key affair for the newlyweds at the Joseph Ambler Inn. In the outdoor pavilion, they had a total of 8 tables set up for their intimate guest count. Hors d’oeuvres were passed by masked and gloved employees, and guests were asked to wear a mask when going in for a drink at the bar. Then, Mary Kate’s dad got on the microphone and announced his newly married daughter and her husband to their guests and invited them to share their first dance. After their dance was over, Mary Kate’s dad asked her for a special dance. As the song played, he bowed and handed her to her oldest brother. This continued until she’d danced with each of her brothers (she’s the only girl in the family), and finished with another round of dancing with her dad. It was a very emotional moment for Mary Kate and she held her tears back as best she could. Kevin’s dance with his mother was not so emotional. She was cheerful and bouncy and laughed the whole time. After a few moments, his grandmother stepped in and shared a dance with the dashing groom as well. They cut their cake and spent the evening enjoying their nearest and dearest at the Joseph Ambler Inn. We can’t wait to do this again with them next year!
