May 23, 2014

Melanie & Jay | A Snowden House Wedding

I’m big on family. Huge. I come from a large, blended family. I am beyond blessed to have parents who have remarried and get along with one another. Everyone can be together just fine. The more the merrier I say….

Enter Melanie. This girl has a place in my heart. I arrived at her dad’s house Saturday morning. The kitchen was full of the girls… Her mom, her stepmom, her future sister-in-laws, her niece, her stepsister, her bridesmaids. Everyone gets along. It reminded me so much of my family. Being an outsider looking in, it made me appreciate what I have so much more. ALL her family was there for her, to celebrate her wedding to Jay. They came from all over and gathered under  one roof to show her so much love. I drove Melanie’s mom to the reception site. She told me how I had probably never seen a mom and stepmom get along so well. I was proud to say I had… And right at that moment I just knew this day would be perfection.

So much happiness filled the Snowden House.  This was my second time shooting there this year (and one more time in November for sweet Lauren!) The grounds of this place are just beautiful. I love how it’s constantly changing (thanks Virginia!) Melanie and Jay had the most incredible weather for their big day. With the sun shining, they said their vows in the garden, fully bloomed with peonies and roses… just breathtaking.  I had spent all morning with Mel’s family and I knew they were wonderful. I got to spend the afternoon around Jay’s family…. Just as wonderful. I knew instantly where Jay got his since of humor!  I truly believe EVERYONE became one big happy family that day. After the newlyweds said ‘I do’, they danced the night away! Mel and Jay, thank you so much for choosing me to capture your big day! It truly was and honor. And Jay, I don’t need therapy after a day with you haha. HUGE thank you to Seth of Seth McClain Photography for being my right hand and second shooting the day with me! Now, enjoy my favorites!

How adorable is this girl?!

Love the shirt Melanie got ready in.

Melanie’s first look with her sweet dad. Priceless.

Custom cufflinks for her dad.

Melanie and Jay opted for a first look… we had so much time for photos!

Melanie had both her grandmother’s rings tied to her bouquet.

See how pretty Snowden House is?!

Loved the color of the girls dresses!

How happy is this girl?! Love, love this shot.

While I was getting this shot….

Seth was getting this shot… Second shooters are the best!

Oh Melanie, you are just stunning.

Adorable!

Wedding time!

Seth’s view of Jay!

Ah! I just love how happy Melanie is!

MARRIED!

This. Was. Hilarious. SELFIE!

Rings of all the women in Mel’s life.

Jay and his sisters!

The new Mr. and Mrs. Stagliano!

These speeches… So good.

Shot on the right by Seth. I just adore it! Yes people, the speeches were that good!

Father daughter dance!

Melanie and her stepdad!

Jay dancing with his sweet mom!

Congratulations Melanie and Jay!

Ceremony and Reception | Snowden House
Florist | Westwood Florist
DJ | Jam On Sound
Cake | Eileen’s Bakery
Hair | Carter Hair Design
Catering |Dori Farrell
Dress | Allure Bridal from Formal Envy
Bridesmaids Dresses | David’s Bridal, color is punch
Groomsmen Attire | Men’s Wearhouse
Invitations | Lydia’s

  1. Lisa Larkin Truitt says:

    Is there anything more fun than looking at wedding pictures? I think not! These are gorgeous!! I honestly can not say I have a favorite because they are all so wonderful. Melanie, you are glowing in each and everyone of these photos!! It’s wonderful to see you so happy. May God continue to bless you and Jay with happiness!!

  2. Joanie Larkin says:

    Carley – you did an amazing job, these photos are beautiful and captured the fun and happiness of the day.

    Joanie

  3. Herman Larkin says:

    Carley, these are amazing; you have amazing photographic vision. You have indeed captured the joy of the occasion along with some fascinating moments. Thank you for everything! PS-can’t wait to see the rest of the lot…

  4. Missy Stagliano says:

    I absolutely love these pictures. They really let Jay and Mel s personality show. I hope they will always be this happy.

  5. Darla Burton says:

    Carley, I have shouted your praises throughout the “Burg”..there isn’t another photographer I would recommend! Seth isn’t so bad either!
    Thank you. These pictures made me smile and warmed my heart… And I loved your introduction. Thanks for capturing it all for us!

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