Nicole & Tyler’s Colorful and Nontraditional Intimate Wedding (Dunkin Donuts Stop Included)
Nicole & Tyler chose to do things their way by having an intimate microwedding in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. From a very special first look outside Nicole’s recently departed grandfather’s home that she inherited, surrounded by close friends, family and beloved dogs, to their outdoor ceremony at Trexler Nature Preserve, to their reception at Surv in Easton, Nicole & Tyler’s celebration was a day that made me remember why I do what I do. Really, why I love what I do. I capture love and theirs is an authentic, timeless and always blossoming love. Nicole & Tyler’s edgy, whimsical and intentionally small wedding felt right in all the ways. Some say non-traditional and these two college sweethearts say instead, it’s our day & we’re doing our wedding our way!
Getting Ready and First Look
The ease of Nicole & Tyler’s wedding was palpable from the very beginning. From initially meeting with Nicole & Tyler to the day of and the hours that followed, their day was one of ease. A photographer herself, Nicole’s intentions for hers and Tyler’s big day were clear from the outset: effortless and easy, because Nicole knows the stress weddings can cause.
The scene for getting ready and the first look was their home. Singing and snacking in their living room with friends, sharing beverages and spending time together on the patio, and beginning the day in the most personal and intentional ways set the stage for the rest of their celebration. Some moments stick with me, and Nicole & Tyler’s first look is one such moment from their wedding. Just outside their front door, underneath a tall tree, Tyler waited for Nicole to share their first look. A few tears, laughter, and excitement ensued. Oh, and one more thing – the cats!
Portraits at Trexler Nature Preserve
From there, we traveled to Trexler Nature Preserve for portraits and their ceremony. Nicole wore an alternative style wedding dress from Etsy that was incredibly colorful, and absolutely stunning. Tyler donned a perfect suit with a hidden complementary print from Men’s Warehouse. Both of them crushed their wedding looks. I’d also be remiss if I didn’t mention how Nicole’s dress and her ink felt meant to be.
MicroWedding Ceremony at Trexler Nature Preserve
Sunshine, fun sunglasses, “flower grannies”, florally decorated dogs and a tight knit group of loved ones ready to party made for a gorgeous, simple outdoor ceremony. Their grandmother’s fanny pack held the rings and the couple said I do beneath the open sky surrounded by nature. While the couple have been together for years, their love and the way they looked at one another felt new and fresh. The ceremony was effortless and filled with joy. Every ceremony should be this way, I think.
Dunkin Donuts
After the ceremony, we made one more special, private stop. Nicole wanted to create her vision, which included going to the same Dunkin’ Donuts where they had their first date on our way to the reception. The photos of Nicole, Tyler and Dunkin Donuts are personal and special. This short adventure was the bride and groom’s favorite part of their day. Once wed, they shared coffee and donuts, reflecting how they’d come full circle back to where they started.
Cocktail Hour
Thoughtful touches greeted guests during the cocktail hour. Remembering Nicole’s grandfather was important and a candle remained lit throughout the duration of the celebration in remembrance of him. Flower designs made of icing topped delicious cupcakes that matched Nicole’s embroidered gown and her bouquet of the softest palette of pink. Candlelight and the soft glow of Surv’s lights gave the space a beautiful glow.
Cupcakes and Reception
A first dance, dances with parents, and heartfelt speeches made for a memorable reception. The venue had a feel of being inside but actually being outside because it was covered, well lit, and the natural light was prominent throughout the space. To describe it with only one word, I’d choose gorgeous, is an understatement. Simplicity and the couple’s intention of ease made this reception stand out because the details were few, the smiles many, and each aspect of their reception was meaningful.
Vendor List
Ceremony Venue: Trexler Nature Preserve
Reception Venue: Surv (Easton)
Catering: Surv (Easton)
Photography: Anna Claire Photos, LLC.
DJ / Band: Dave Waldron
Florist: Seiya at Zinna Flowers
Hair: Hair Goddess by Gina
Makeup: Jade Geist
Dress: Etsy
Suit: Men’s Wearhouse
Ready to plan your own intimate and non-traditional wedding?
Whether you’re planning an outdoor wedding or not, I’m here to help you know ease in your wedding planning process. Reach out to learn more about my process as your wedding photographer, and why your photographer plays such an enormous part in helping you feel your best during your wedding day! I want to know all the details of your love story.
Looking for more wedding and elopement inspiration?
Take a look at Sean & Ian’s quintessential Pennsylvania fall wedding day!
