Carolyn and Justin were wed at the gorgeous Succop Conservancy in Butler, PA.   The Succop Conservancy, which is practically across the street from The Mansion on Route 8,  is a 170-year old stately mansion located on 50 acres of beautiful land, truly a photographer’s dream.  I can’t say enough good things about this venue!  From the moment I arrived, I wanted to do a little happy dance, because all my favorite elements were there:  beautiful  and charming structures, tasteful art and antique decor, two sparkling ponds complete with ducks and geese, winding trails through fields of tall grasses, herb gardens, colorful doorways of old wood and peeling paint, little nooks for taking pictures everywhere you turn…Oh, Succop Conservancy, how do I love thee?  Let me count the ways…

The upper right corner of this collage shows the bridal suite – spacious, well decorated, and with two windows to allow natural light into the room.  Brides-to-be, here’s a tip for better pictures that is so often overlooked: If those getting ready shots are important to you and you want them to be beautiful, take the time to check out locations beforehand.  Look for a room that has plenty of natural light, ample space for your bridesmaids to gather around you, nice furniture, a place to hang your dress (preferably near a window), and is uncluttered.

The lace on Carolyn’s dress was so pretty, and the bow was the perfect accent.  Oh, Succop Conservancy, I love thee for thy thoughtful touches, such as this coat tree for hanging the wedding gown.

Just beautiful.

Love capturing the groom’s face when he sees his bride for the first time.  Image by Amy.

It was a gorgeous day–look at that sky!  Carolyn and Justin picked the perfect time of day for their ceremony, just a few hours before sunset.  The sun was down far enough so that it created the perfect touch of delicious backlighting.  Brides-to-be, here’s another tip for better photos:  When you decide on a time for your ceremony and pictures afterwards, keep in mind that the best lighting occurs 1-2 hours before sunset.  When you check out your outdoor venue, try to be there during the time frame that your ceremony or formals will take place to get an idea for the lighting.  Choose a spot that has nice, even lighting like this.  Oh, Succop Conservancy, I love thee for thy picturesque spot in front of the pond and even lighting…thy sun sets from the perfect angle…

A few minutes before the reception, I noticed this gorgeous spot of sunlight.  I asked Carolyn to go over there and play with her veil in the light–so graceful.

Such pretty colors Carolyn chose for her bouquet and centerpieces by Gift Baskets, Flowers, and More in Zelienople.

Justin and Carolyn gave pine tree seedlings as favors–a unique and earth-friendly idea.

Such a lovely cake by Mimi’s Bake Shoppe in Cranberry.

I would like to take a moment to point out the impressive athleticism displayed by one of Carolyn and Justin’s guests during the bouquet toss.  Wow!

The mood was set by the music and colorful uplighting in the pavilion, as well as on the surrounding trees, courtesy of DJ Frank Gloor of Otto Productions.

The perfect ending to a perfect day.  Carolyn and Justin, thank you so much for a wonderful time.  I’m so glad that you chose me to capture your wedding memories.  I wish you both all the best that life has to offer!

If you are planning a wedding in Butler or the surrounding areas, I suggest that you consider the Succop Conservancy.  Then give me a call, because I am in love with this venue!