Jackie and AJ were originally supposed to get married in May, but the world and COVID had other plans and they had to reschedule their wedding for September 27th instead. Luckily, they were able to keep all their original vendors! Jackie and AJ tied the knot at The Mercantile in Mt. Sterling, Ohio. I had never been before, but I was very impressed! The owners have really put a lot of thought and design into the venue for being a beautiful place for pictures.
Jackie and AJ really put a lot of time into their decorations and it turned out to be amazing! I love that they used mums, pumpkins, and fall colors to decorate. During their ceremony, I noticed there was this little white butterfly that kept flying around them and the front row. I thought that was so sweet! Jackie and AJ said their vows privately to each other during the ceremony and then put their vow books in a wooden box her dad had made to open on their first anniversary. One of my favorite parts of photographing weddings is seeing how unique each couple makes their wedding!
Jackie and AJ’s family was so nice to the vendors and really made us feel welcomed and appreciated! It’s easy to see why Jackie and AJ are such great people. Jackie chose to have a first look with her dad and man, it was emotional! She also surprised her mom and dad with a special painting honoring their parents. It was a really sweet moment!
Jackie and AJ also chose to have a private moment before the ceremony; I love when couples do this. I feel like it’s a good compromise if one of you doesn’t want to do a first look. It also makes for a more emotional reaction as the bride is walking down the aisle. AJ’s reaction as Jackie walked down was perfect!
One of the best things about their big day was seeing their love for each other. AJ and Jackie have been together for a long time and this has been a long time coming! It was wonderful to see their family and friends celebrate with them. Jackie’s parents have really been an inspiration to her and AJ and so to honor them, they played the song her parents first danced to at their own wedding. Jackie and AJ invited them onto the dance floor and they danced together!
We wrapped up the day with sunset shots and a sparkler exit. It truly was a day to remember! Jackie and AJ, it was truly such an honor to photograph your wedding. One of the best parts of my job is that I get to meet amazing people like you. I love your love and I’m so excited to see where the future takes you!
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