Haley + George | Rural Urbana outdoor wedding

September 9, 2010 Holly Smith

I wasn't even sure where to start with this blog post because Haley + George's wedding was amazing from top to bottom. I decided to go with my absolute favorite from the day, which you see above. Haley and her mom were a little hesitant for the couple to leave the ceremony and reception site for an hour to take some photos, but we breezed through the family and wedding party photos, so we ended up plenty of time for it. And boy am I glad! These two rocked our mini-session in downtown at the Urbana Free Library. Did I mention how I've been secretly waiting for a bride to wear a birdcage veil? Haley you made my day! And you are absolutely gorgeous. This one is similar to one of their engagement photos we shot just a couple blocks away from this spot. Everyone told her she should wear sensible shoes, but she said "That's just not me." :) On the way back to the house, they wanted to stop off for a caffeine fix. And you know I'm a sucker for quirky wedding day photos! Remember this one from Mindy + Marty's July 2009 wedding? Oh, and thank you Starbucks employee for not yelling at me for taking your photo. :) Now, from earlier in the day... I started with the guys in Haley's parents' backyard. George was so happy and cooperative all day. Thanks George! While the girls finished getting ready, I snapped a few shots of Haley's awesome bouquet, complete with peacock feathers, courtesy of Fleurish (my new studio neighbors!). Then Haley and George had their first look before the entire wedding party joined us outside. Here's one of Kara's shots that I love! And my view just a few seconds later: Here's a shot of her pre-veil. She looks great without it, but I thought it helped tie everything together nicely. I love when I get the opportunity to do family photos outdoors. Here's a shot of Haley's family, plus "the boyfriends" as they were affectionately referred to by Haley. A sweet detail--the flower girl basket carried by George's 5-year-old sister. Can you say HUGE WEDDING PARTY?? I think this was definitely the biggest one I've ever photographed. It was a good challenge! One of Haley's sisters helps secure the veil before our Urbana photo session. This shot is by Kara as well. Then it was onto the ceremony! Married at last! Then it was time to party. I am really starting to love the reception dancing photos. I always end up with a few gems that make me laugh when I go back to edit. :) "If you liked it then you shoulda put a ring on it." A few weddings guests stopped off the edge of the dance floor to check out my same-day slideshow. This kid had some moves. Seriously.