Before Friday, Amy and Derek were really just strangers to me. Aside from many emails Amy and I shared, we had never met in person. But once I left Amy & Derek’s wedding day, they felt like old friends. They are just that kind of people. It was evident that everyone felt this way about them as people from all over the world, from different parts of their lives gathered for their wedding celebration. They were surrounded by so much love.

This wedding day wasn’t simply a walk down the isle with a party afterwards. Amy and Derek put so much thought and meaning into their entire union. Derek used Amy’s grandmother’s diamond in her engagement ring. He had a setting created just for her. Amy wore her mother’s wedding gown and they stood under the pergola that Amy’s sister was married under years before her. Derek even made his own wedding band- Derek’s grandfather worked at Bethlehem Steel and he used to make rings from stainless steel nuts. Derek found one that his grandfather had started by drilling the threads out and Derek finished it using a grinder and a belt sander and tediously hand sanded it to shape it and to give it a brushed look. It seemed like everywhere i turned someone was telling me the story or meaning behind a different part of their wedding day. They really made sure each part was special.

And I can’t share their wedding day without first sharing a little side note. Amy and Derek were married at the GORGEOUS Farm at Eagle’s Ridge in Lancaster, PA. The week leading up to our trip to PA, the weather was not looking good. I was so looking forward to all the beautiful outdoor spots at this venue, so my heart sank with each check of the weather. The morning of the wedding, a light rain fell outside my hotel window and then by the time we were headed out, it had stopped! Amy and Derek enjoyed their outdoor ceremony as planned and we captured some stunning portraits! I feel hard for this venue. It was simply breath taking from every angle. It made me wish I could shoot there every weekend! If anyone in PA wants us to come back for another wedding, I would love to do it!

Amy and Derek, thank you for trusting us to come all the way to your wedding! We were so honored to be a part of it! It will forever be a favorite! I have no doubt that your marriage will be as beautiful and meaningful as your wedding day!

Amy changed into a new gown for the reception and surprised Derek!
























A special thank to these amazing vendors:

Florals: Tiffany Rueckert | Venue: The Farm at Eagle’s Ridge | Wedding Coordination: KLB Events |DJ: Occasion DJ’s | Videographer: CK Cinematography | Catering: Accoma events | Invitations: Made by Bride | Bride’s Gown: Vintage (mother’s gown) | Groomsmen attire: Perry Ellis | Bridesmaid Attire: Azazie | Photography: Candi Leonard Photography

If you liked this wedding you may also like Kamerin & Cory’s wedding day.