Earlier this year, I photographed this sweet summer wedding at Aspen Grove, in Incline Village. The couple booked one of my custom packages, which included 4 hours of photography coverage. This included some arrival photos, ceremony coverage, family and wedding party photos. I made sure we had time to shoot some great couple portraits as well before the coverage ended.
Pre-Ceremony
Since there aren’t any private accommodations at Aspen Grove, the bride and groom got ready for the wedding at another location. When they arrived, I photographed the wedding party and a few family group photos.
Even when I am photographing group portraits, I keep an eye out for the candid moments in between.
There are several great spots at Aspen Grove for wedding party photos and family portraits. I chose this location based on the time of day, weather, and the number of people I was photographing.
The bride and groom did not want to see each other before the wedding. So, the bride waited indoors until it was time for the ceremony to begin.
Ceremony
Aspen Grove is a unique outdoor location that is available June through September. The idyllic park-like setting is nestled among aspen trees with a creek running next to the ceremony site.
The couple wanted to include their German Sherpherd Dog in the ceremony. First, the groom walked their dog down the aisle first. Then the father of the bride accompanied his daughter down the aisle.
Many couples go back and forth on whether to have a First Look. As a photographer, I see pros and cons to seeing one another before the wedding ceremony. This couple chose the traditional option of not seeing each other. In my experience, this often results in a more emotions during the ceremony.
If I see a tear running down a groom’s face, you better believe I am going capture it with a photo!
During summer, the lighting at this wedding venue is best in the late afternoon. This is when the dappled sunlight coming through the trees is softer. If you are thinking about a summer wedding at Aspen Grove, I recommend starting your ceremony later in the day when the light is better.
During a wedding ceremony, I explore all the best angles as I quietly move from one location to another.
This wasn’t an emotional experience only for the groom. As the couple began to exchange their vows, the bride shed a few happy tears as well!
As the bride and groom shared this sweet moment, I used the rule of thirds to compose an image which included the groomsmen as well.
There is always a lot of excitement as the ceremony comes to an end. So, I make sure I keep shooting to capture the couple’s expressions as well as all the hugs and excitement from loved ones.
Outdoor Reception
The bride and groom kicked off their outdoor reception with a first dance. Their position on the patio lined up nicely with the large sign behind them spelling L-O-V-E, so I made sure to include that in the frame.
Next, their parents joined them for the father-daughter dance and the mother-son dance. Instead of doing these dances one after the other, this couple decided to do both parent dances at the same time.
As everyone enjoyed dinner, the best man and mother of the bride each made a champagne toast to the couple.
Their German Shepherd listened carefully to these speeches as well!
Aspen Grove is an idyllic setting among the trees. It’s a beautiful place to spend a summer afternoon outside with your wedding guests!
Bride and Groom Portraits
When the sun dipped closer to the horizon, the light grew softer and I saw the potential for some scenic bride and groom portraits. One nice thing about this wedding venue is that you don’t have to walk far to find some great spots for sunset photos.
With all the lush greenery in this forested setting, I wanted to include some green “leaf bokeh” in at least one photo.
Chris Werner Photography
Are you getting married at Aspen Grove in Incline Village? I would love to be your photographer! Click over to my contact page to find out if I am available. You can explore more examples of my work on my wedding photography portfolio page.
You can see more photos from Incline Village weddings on my Incline Village weddings page.
