David and Karisa - October 8, 2011

David, Karisa and I had quite a unique meeting during their wedding planning. Living in Florida, they were planning a Youngstown, Ohio wedding. Karisa got in contact with me through another photographer a few days before I was going down to Florida on vacation. We arranged a meeting in Tampa Bay. Meeting at Starbucks, we discussed their wedding day plans first, then headed to Clearwater Beach for their engagement photos.

After reviewing their photos, Karisa and David decided to officially book me for their wedding day. To be honest, I had been nervously looking forward to this wedding all season. I was looking forward to it because both David and Karisa were so kind and genuine during our awkward meeting. Nervous because I didn't want to mess up their long-distance wedding. The day went off without a hitch. There was laughter all day, tears for the memory of Karisa's mother and a warm buzz of excitement in the group.

After the ceremony we headed to the Women's Park in the Niles area for group pictures. The personalities really came out then! There were times where it was impossible to take pictures because we all were laughing so hard. The reception hall was beautiful. Family surrounded the newlywed couple with love and support. It was then where I found out how David and Karisa learned to be so kind. During the Anniversary Dance, the dance floor was PACKED with couples who had been married for over 35 years.

I had such a great time photographing their wedding.  I hope to have the opportunity to see them again the next time I visit my family in Florida. Congratulations guys