Pittsburgh Wedding, Boudoir, Senior Photographer

Kim and Jeremy | DoubleTree by Hilton Wedding

They love to miniature golf, spend time outdoors, and greatly value time with their families. To boot, they are relaxed, gracious, and some of the most genuine and caring people we’ve had the pleasure of photographing. So many friends and family members were there to witness Kim and Jeremy’s wedding, and it was such a joy to see Kim and Jeremy’s love for each other, and the love their friends and family have for them, unfold during every step of the day.

I really can’t choose just one favorite moment from Kim and Jeremy’s wedding day, because there were so many moments to love! If I had to pick just a few, I suppose I would pick the ear-to-ear grins on Kim and Jeremy’s faces while they were looking at each other on the alter, the superman themed reception introduction, and the sombrero hat dance to “Low Rider” (a wedding tradition for Jeremy’s family.)

Kim and Jeremy- we thank you so much for allowing us to be a part of your wedding day. We feel privileged to have gotten to know you, and experience the kind and true love that you have for one another.

Cake: Lincoln Bakery
Ceremony: St. Kilian Parish
Ceremony Musician: David Dreher
DJ: PJ the DJ from Entertainment Unlimited
Florist: Gerard Boeh Flowers
Hair Aristry: Above All Grand Salon
Limousine: Star Limousine
Photographer: Lavender Leigh
Reception Venue: DoubleTree by Hilton Pittsburgh- Cranberry

For the Love of Boudoir

Bookings for our boudoir sessions have gone through the roof this year, and I am over the moon because I love photographing this genre so much! These sessions are so much fun- not only for me, but especially for my clients! What I love most about boudoir sessions is that we photograph in a relaxed and fun atmosphere, and I have the opportunity to help ladies express their beautiful and feminine selves.

Many times, my clients tell me that they are a little anxious as we start the session, and then, after a few clicks of the camera, they realize that there is nothing to be nervous about. During a boudoir session, I guide clients through the posing- I sometimes demonstrate right alongside them, to show them exactly how it will look and how to place their body. They learn to completely trust me, and this helps them quickly start to relax.

I am simply in love with the boudoir images in today’s post- I got to play around with a motorcycle and beautiful blue, sparkly shoes! Not to mention a gorgeous client! I don’t think it gets any better than this.

Note: all of the below images have been graciously approved by my clients to post.

Amanda and Nate | Club at Shadow Lakes Wedding

Amanda and Nate’s wedding was held at St. John the Baptist, with the reception to follow at the Club at Shadow Lakes. The day started off with Amanda getting ready with the “other” man in her life, her cute pet Chihuahua named Oliver, who was dressed from nose to tail in a little tux. Like me, Amanda is an animal lover. The week leading into the wedding, I received a call from her, requesting that her bridal portraits be taken at a barn with horses. My heart leapt- I felt like we were two peas in a pod (Barry and I had our wedding pictures taken at a barn with horses.) Although rain was predicted for their wedding day, Amanda requested that we get the barn pictures- rain or shine! Love that girl.

Well, rain and shine was precisely the story of the day- plenty of sunshine with intermittent torrential downpours. Yes, we were blindsided by the rain as we were finishing up Amanda’s pictures in the middle of a field! I had just enough time to grab her long veil so she could sprint towards shelter! I posted a picture below so you could see our first glance at the rain that came out of nowhere like a stampede!

What I love most about Amanda and Nate, besides the open adoration they have for each other, are the sparks of fun they emit. Entering into the reception as guests whistled and clapped, Amanda and Nate soared down the steps of the club, and through a room of twirling terrible towels. Amanda threw in a surprise during the Father/Daughter Dance- the music started out slow and full of emotion, and then quickly turned to a fast, shake your tail feather song!

Take a look at some of the images from their day!

Cake: Carol’s Cakes
Ceremony Venue: St. John the Baptist
DJ: DJ Book
Favors: Personalized Terrible Towels by RallyTowels.com
Florist: Lydia’s Flower Shoppe
Hair and Makeup Artistry: Broadhead Spa
Photographer: Lavender Leigh Photography
Reception Venue: Club at Shadow Lakes

Amanda and Seth | White Barn Wedding

It may have been the shortest wedding ceremony in the White Barn’s history (just under 8 minutes), but time stood still as Seth watched Amanda emerge from the shadows of the barn and walk down the aisle. Clearly in awe of his bride, he mouthed the words “WOW”- a moment that Barry and I are privileged to witness as every other head is turned towards Amanda. The cloudless sky and radiant sun set the perfect scene for their wedding, matching the warmth that surrounded this marriage and celebration. So many helping hands played a part in the unique details of this wedding- from the homemade moonshine and jam favors, to the button and burlap wrapped flower arrangements. We were amazed at the details, thought, and love that created this wonderful day!

Besides Seth’s reaction to Amanda walking down the aisle, another fantastic moment occurred when the ring bearer ran to meet the flower girl as she walked down the aisle! And of course, the sweet tears that ran down Amanda’s cheeks as her mother and bridesmaids stared in awe at this lovely bride. Keep scrolling to see these wonderful moments!

Cake: Pennie’s Bake Shop
Catering: Medure’s Catering
DJ: D&D Productions
Florist: All About Reclaimed by Jeff Double
Hair Artistry: The Hair Studio
Makeup Artistry: Pure Beauty Makeup Artistry
Photographer: Lavender Leigh Photography
Ceremony and Reception Venue: White Barn

Spring Family Portraits | North Park

I was so excited to see this lil’ guy again! I first photographed him when he turned one last spring, and within this past year, he has learned to eat the camera up! This year he flashed endless smiles, and continuously entertained us with uncontrollable giggles. He loved running up and down the fields, enjoying the freedom of moving about on his own free will (with Mom and Dad just a few steps behind him!) Here are some of my favorites from his session!

To view images from his session last year, click here.