We were thrilled when Troy and Katie contacted us to photograph their Rustic Acres vow renewal ceremony! Like many couples eager to marry, COVID changed the way marriages occurred in 2020. Troy and Katie went all out for their first anniversary and celebrated their marriage with family and friends in person at the gorgeous Rustic Acres Farm in Western PA.
Among the rolling green hills and just one hour north of Pittsburgh, Rustic Acres Farm boasts of nature for as far as the eye can see. Picture your vows said on the deck overlooking their pond with nothing but blue skies, draping willow trees, and lush greenery for acres. Full of rustic farm charm, from the renovated wooden barn to the outdoor covered pavilion perfect for dinner and dancing, Rustic Acres Farms is a beautiful venue for your “I do’s.” And the ideal spot for a long-awaited celebration with friends and family, like in Troy and Katie’s case.
Love at First Jalapeno
Troy and Katie’s love story began when they met in college at St. Bonaventure University (Go Bonnies!). On her way home, Katie was stopped by Troy, who boldly asked for her number. Troy didn’t waste any time putting that number to use, and they had their first date shortly after at a campus cafe. Already smitten, Troy fell hard for Katie when she ordered her sandwich with jalapeno and sriracha. Falling in love with his spicy gal wasn’t hard for Troy. And besides her delicious food choices, he most admires her capability to love people endlessly, along with her dedication to bettering herself and showing empathy to the world around her.
After college, they survived long-distance dating for a time. And Katie knew then that she couldn’t picture her future without Troy in it. Missing him immensely when they weren’t together, Katie knew that if they could survive and thrive in a relationship far apart, then they were meant to be in each other’s lives forever.
An On-Stage Proposal
Growing up, Katie and her family would drive to the artistic and cultural Chautauqua Institution. Known for its community and programs that explore the arts, this Institution became the place of happy memories for Katie. With the help of his future in-laws, Troy planned a holiday proposal at the Institution. As a dancer of fifteen years, Katie took Troy to see the stage where she’d dreamed of performing for years. Troy, who had planned this moment and location for a proposal, encouraged Katie to try out the stage and dance! During a spin, Troy dropped to one knee. As Troy expressed his love, any anxiety dissipated, and he proposed to Katie. Through tears, Katie accepted, and they then danced on stage together. And you have to know that Luther Vandross was singing in the background during the proposal because Troy knew what he was doing! Dreamy, right?!
A Vow Renewal Worth Waiting for at Rustic Acres Farm, PA
As the groom awaited his bride, Troy’s first glimpse did not disappoint. Resplendent in a navy suit with a deep purple tie, Troy was as polished and sophisticated as they come. Troy was speechless with a serene lake backdrop behind him as Katie approached him wearing an intricately beaded gown. With her hair half swept up and held with a beaded comb, Katie’s smile upon seeing her groom was a mile wide. Romantic scenery, towering and draping willow trees, and with joyful smiles that stretched wide, Troy and Katie renewed their vows. But this time, they said these vows amongst those they love most! Renewing your vows on the wooden deck overlooking the pond at Rustic Acres Farm, with nothing but green as far as your eyes can see, might just make up for the fact that you had to postpone your ceremony and reception due to COVID.
A Day Worth Remembering
If COVID has taught us anything, it’s that the most precious moments of our lives deserve celebrating with those we love the most. We want to help you preserve your special moments, whether it be family photos, graduations, anniversaries, or your wedding day. These days go by in a blink of an eye. And we’d be honored to help you preserve these moments and memories so that you can celebrate them again and again. Contact us for more information.
ADD A COMMENT