When Ryan and I shoot a wedding there are 2 things we are the most excited about. 1. The Food and 2. The Traditions. Each family has their own spin on their cultures wedding traditions. Our new favorite, non – tradition is the bride and groom seeing one another before the ceremony. I have to say that I was always a fan of capturing the grooms expression as the bride walks down the aisle. But when Doug and Shawna opted to see one another and shoot all their photos before hand we were thrilled.

Not seeing your bride until the marriage is finalized is an old tradition taken from the days of arranged marriages. The groom was not allowed to see his betrothed for fear that he may run if his new wife to be’s looks were not top shelf.  We didn’t have to worry at this wedding. Shawna’s a beauty! Doug was going no where!

This was one of the most unique weddings we have been to in terms of traditions. This wedding didn’t have many typical traditions, there was no white dress, or bouquets,  and all the bridesmaids wore different pattern dresses. Shawna didn’t wear a veil, and there was no wedding cake.

But what this wedding did have was a stunning emerald green gown, each bridesmaid had a clutch that matched their dress instead of a bouquet, we ate fruit and meringues instead of cake. And the first dance was a TANGO!

I think when it comes to traditions, and Ryan will agree with me because we have had this conversation so many times. Traditions evolve with each family.  They are interpreted through many sets of eyes over many years. The only one thing consistent with tradition is family. It is the only ingredient needed to made traditions worth while.

Doug and Shawna may not have had typical wedding traditions, but they created new ones.  One thing is for certain, Doug and Shawna have a ton of family and people who love and support them. It was such a pleasure to to be apart of their unique day. Thank you.

Congratulations!!!

& Ryan

The Ring shot!