The seasons have changed, but Ella and Riley’s love has not! Last winter, we visited Riley’s grandparents’ farm for their engagement session and it was an honor to return there to celebrate their wedding. Since we’ve had so much fun getting to know this gorgeous couple (and their dog, Merle!), we’re psyched to share some of their St George Church wedding with you.
A Much-Anticipated Proposal
Ella and Riley were friends all throughout high school. However, despite Ella’s secret English class wishes, they never became more than that . During the summer after their senior year, when Ella was healing from ACL surgery, they finally went on their somewhat disastrous first date. After limping behind him in Walmart and attending a movie she hated, the recovering Ella had to “brace” herself for future dates. Fortunately, it was all uphill from there!
After a Christmas karaoke session with his family, Ella realized her and Riley’s relationship was a duet she wanted to sing for life! Ella eagerly began to wait for a proposal. As birthdays, holidays, and vacations passed by without incident, her eager anticipation only grew.
It only made sense that the outdoorsy couple made their engagement official as they played outside with their beloved dog, Merle. At long last, Riley surprised Ella with flowers and a ring he’d hidden in his pocket. After a shocked cry of “Seriously?!”, Ella happily said yes.
Their Erie, PA Wedding Venues
A St George Church Wedding Ceremony
The St. George Roman Catholic Church in Erie was the gorgeous wedding ceremony location for these two lovebirds. Dedicated in 1959, the parish can comfortably accommodate hundreds of guests. Its historic architecture boasts classic red brick and stunning stained-glass.
Adding to the fun of the big day’s events, their beautiful ceremony ended with an outdoor, bubble-filled exit. After that, I joined the happy couple and their bridal party on a party bus for the ride back to Riley’s family farm in Waterford.
Rustic Reception at a Family Farm
The reception took us back to the site of their winter engagement shoot — Riley’s family farm. Full of stunning natural lighting, plants, and a pond, the property wasn’t the only family connection. Our happy couple will share their anniversary with Ella’s grandparents, who would have celebrated their 79th anniversary that day.
Between their dog, Merle, and a surprise motorcycle gift from a friend, Ella and Riley filled their big day with plenty of who they are as a couple.
If you have a big event coming up, don’t let it go unpreserved! It would be an honor to capture your life’s happiest moments. We take the time to get to know every couple and personalize your photos to your personality and history. Contact us today to inquire about availability and schedule a wedding consultation!
In the meantime: browse through some of our other wonderful weddings in Erie PA:
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