What a wonderful day filled with sentimental moments, joy, and beauty! Lauren and Joe had an amazing wedding from start to finish! Their day began in two places that are very familiar and dear to their hearts. Joe’s grandparents happen to own a beautiful vineyard, Mount Nittany Vineyard and Winery. If you are wondering, yes we did, in fact, taste the wine and it is very very good! We were fortunate to have been gifted a bottle from the bride and groom shortly after we wrapped up their engagement photo session at the vineyard last year! 🙂

So to begin the day, we photographed Joe and his groomsmen at the winery and around the property. It was nice to have the option to use the land all to ourselves since it’s privately owned. Lauren and her ladies were getting ready at Joe’s parents house that was rich in character and flavor. Almost like a fine aged bottle of wine. We had many spots to work with including the grand piano and sitting room, the foyer, and pockets of natural light. Joel and I were like two kids in a candy store working in such a beautiful space and with such beautiful ladies! The bride alone was stunning, donned in her gorgeous wedding gown, alluring eye makeup provided by Kelly Clark, and a rather expensive and sparkly “something borrowed” bracelet. But as much time as we could have spent in that amazing house (all day), we were off to meet with Joe and the groomsmen back at the winery and vineyard. Most importantly, Joe and Lauren were to have their first look!

Now there are some couples that keep it traditional and chose not to see each other before the ceremony, but we find that there are other couples who want their first look moment just for themselves. Really, there’s no right or wrong way. There are no “wedding rules” (as there might have been in the past) and we love when couples create their own traditions! Joe and Lauren’s first look was wrapped in suspense as Lauren slowly walked up the side of the barn behind the vineyard as Joe waited on the other side. They both equally glowed when they set eyes on each other. Such love between these two! After their first look, we grabbed some amazing shots with the whole bridal party and were off to get these two hitched!

Their ceremony was at the State College Presbyterian Church located downtown State College on old Beaver Ave. Similar to Lauren and Joe’s first look moment, Lauren had a first look with her father. He radiated pride and admiration for his daughter while dressed in his blues for their first glance. And proudly he walked his daughter down the aisle to another man who was about to vow to love and protect her. The ceremony was sweet and  sentimental with music from Joe’s brother and heartfelt vows from the bride and groom. As many times as we have seen couples say their “I do’s”, it never gets old for us. The moment is beautiful and full of love. 🙂

Before Lauren and Joe’s entrance to their reception at Mountain View Country Club, we were able to spend a little time with the newlyweds down at the ponds and willows on the property. We had amazing light and working with an amazing couple, we couldn’t go wrong! And they don’t call it Mountain View Country Club for no reason! I can see why they changed the name from the Elks club because when you have your reception at this location, you also get the view (hence Mountain View)! Many wedding guests during the reception, as well as us, took full advantage of the view, which was out on the patio adjacent to the dinning room. After the funny and moving toasts, first dances, and cake cutting, the party came alive on the dance floor with beats provided by Mint DJ Events. We had a lot of charismatic dancers from the bridal party (particularly the groomsmen) and wedding guests. I think it’s safe to say everyone had fun and enjoyed the day, most especially the bride and groom!

Joe and Lauren, may you always have this mixture of fun, love, and laughter in your marriage as it was on your wedding day! Congrats and many blessings to you both. 🙂

– Andrea

Vendor List:

Bliss Salon, Karrie Argiro – Hair

Kelly Clark Makeup Artist – Makeup

Lily Rose Bridal – Gown

Woodrings – Flowers

Delectable Delights, Heather Luse – Cake

Mint DJ Events – DJ

State College Presbyterian Church – Ceremony

Mountain View Country Club – Reception

Mount Nittany Vineyard and Winery – For some awesome wine and amazing views! 🙂