A Stunning Late Summer Wedding at Oak Grove in Columbus, Ohio
Mid-September brought a perfect day for celebrating love at Oak Grove in Columbus, Ohio. Clear skies, warm temperatures, and the lush greenery set the stage for a truly unforgettable wedding day. As a photographer, moments like these—filled with love, joy, and beautiful scenery—are an absolute dream to capture.
The Vendor Team
Photography - Contact us here // Venue, Floral and Catering - Jorgensen Farm Oak Grove // Video - Up & Up Weddings // DJ - Greg Gervais // Strings - Viva La Strings // Saxophone - Jack Thompson
This couple’s love story was evident in every detail of their special day. The bride, radiant with her red hair styled in a sleek ponytail, looked effortlessly elegant in a simple, straight A-line gown that emphasized her natural beauty. Her calm confidence and glowing smile spoke volumes about her excitement to marry the love of her life. Her groom, equally stylish and charming in a crisp white tuxedo jacket paired with classic black trousers, couldn’t hold back his emotions. When he saw her for the first time walking down the aisle with her father, tears streamed down his face, a touching display of love that left hardly a dry eye among the guests.
The couple chose to honor tradition by not seeing each other before the ceremony, which made their first look down the aisle even more special. Before the ceremony, we captured portraits of the bride with her bridesmaids and the groom with his groomsmen separately. Starting with the ladies, we stepped outside to take advantage of the full sun, using its warm backlight to highlight their radiant energy and the vibrant reddish-orange dresses. The session was lively and joyful, with plenty of laughter and candid moments.
Once the ladies’ portraits were complete, it was time for the gentlemen. The groom and his groomsmen—sharp in classic black tuxedos—brought a cool, confident vibe to their session. We also incorporated some creative techniques, like slow shutter blur, to add an artistic flair to their portraits. These separate sessions allowed the bride and groom to enjoy moments with their respective parties while building anticipation for the ceremony.
The outdoor ceremony took place under a magnificent oak tree that stood as a symbol of strength and endurance, much like the couple’s love. This stunning natural centerpiece was adorned with a vibrant floral arrangements, enhancing its beauty without taking away from its grandeur. With over 100 guests seated on either side of the grassy aisle, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement. As the bride made her way toward her groom, the rustling leaves and warm sunlight created a serene backdrop. The officiant delivered a heartfelt ceremony, and the couple’s personal vows left everyone inspired by their love and commitment.
After the ceremony, we gathered the entire wedding party for portraits to capture the joy and excitement of the day. The backdrop of the oak tree and vibrant greenery added a stunning natural element to these group shots, which were filled with laughter and camaraderie. Once the full party portraits were complete, the couple enjoyed a few quiet moments together as newlyweds. These intimate portraits were filled with loving gazes, as they soaked in the significance of their first moments as husband and wife. The soft golden light and serene surroundings created the perfect atmosphere before they joined their guests for the lively cocktail hour.
Following the ceremony, guests transitioned to a delightful cocktail hour in Oak Grove’s beautiful greenhouse. The space offered a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor elements, with its glass walls allowing the golden late-afternoon sunlight to flood in. Guests enjoyed an assortment of refreshing beverages and hors d’oeuvres while mingling and taking in the lovely surroundings. A highlight of the hour was the bride and groom’s champagne tower pour. The couple’s playful and joyful energy as they popped and shook the champagne bottle brought laughter and applause, setting the tone for the evening’s celebrations.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, the couple stepped away from the festivities for a private sunset photo session. These moments were truly magical, capturing the essence of their love in the golden glow of late summer. They lay together on a soft white sheet spread across the grass, sharing intimate smiles and laughter. In another playful sequence, they chased each other, radiating joy and freedom. Under the shade of a towering oak tree, they embraced, their silhouettes framed by the warm light.
The evening transitioned into a lively reception held indoors in Oak Grove’s main building. The space was designed to perfection, with warm lighting that created an inviting and elegant ambiance. Large windows provided stunning views of the surrounding property, adding a touch of natural beauty to the celebration. The towering wedding cake, adorned with intricate details, served as a show-stopping centerpiece. As the music began, the dance floor quickly filled with guests of all ages, dancing and celebrating with boundless energy. From emotional first dances to spirited group freestyle, the evening was a joyous culmination of the day’s events.
Photographing this Oak Grove wedding in Columbus, Ohio, was an absolute privilege. The combination of stunning structures, heartfelt moments, and a vibrant love story made this a day to remember. From the tearful first look during the ceremony to the lively reception, every frame tells a story of love, celebration, and connection. This wedding showcased the best of what Oak Grove has to offer—a breathtaking venue perfect for creating timeless memories.
If you’re planning a wedding at Oak Grove or searching for a Columbus, Ohio, wedding photographer, we’d love to help capture your special day. Let’s create something beautiful together!