There’s something timeless about a traditional Catholic wedding day and Megan & Eric’s Columbus wedding was exactly that. It was heartfelt, emotional, joy-filled, and deeply rooted in family tradition. From their ceremony at Christ the King Catholic Church to portraits at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and their reception at The Makoy; every part of the day felt meaningful and intentional.

As a Columbus wedding photographer, these are the kinds of wedding days I absolutely love documenting — authentic moments, emotional family connections, and couples who truly soak in every second of their day together.

A Traditional Catholic Wedding Ceremony at Christ the King in Columbus

Megan & Eric chose to keep their wedding day traditional and skipped a first look before the ceremony. There’s always something so emotional about that decision. The anticipation builds all day long, making that walk down the aisle even more powerful.

Their ceremony at Christ the King Catholic Church was especially meaningful because it’s the same church where Megan’s parents were married years ago. Family legacy was woven throughout the entire day but one of the most touching details happened during the ceremony itself. Megan & Eric prayed together on a kneeler donated in honor of Megan’s late grandmother. She was someone who, according to family, absolutely loved a good wedding celebration. It was such a beautiful reminder that weddings aren’t just about two people coming together, but also about the generations of love and support surrounding them.

The stunning architecture and timeless beauty of Christ the King made the perfect setting for a classic Catholic wedding in Columbus. So much natural light at this church made for dreamy photos of their ceremony.

Spring Wedding Portraits at Franklin Park Conservatory

After the ceremony, we headed to Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens for wedding party portraits, and it could not have been a more perfect spring day. Everything was finally blooming, giving us the dreamiest light and airy backdrop for portraits. Between the gardens, natural light, and fresh greenery, the spot we picked out photographed beautifully.

But honestly, what made this part of the day so fun was the wedding party itself. Megan & Eric surrounded themselves with people who brought nonstop laughter and energy all day long. Everyone was relaxed, easygoing, and genuinely excited to celebrate the couple which always makes for the best candid moments and natural photos. As a wedding photographer, having a joyful and cooperative wedding party makes such a difference, and this group made the portrait portion of the day feel effortless.

Reception Celebration at The Makoy in Hilliard

The celebration continued at The Makoy, where family and friends gathered for an evening full of dancing, heartfelt toasts, and nonstop celebration.

The Makoy is such a versatile reception venue near Columbus, especially for couples planning a larger wedding celebration while still wanting a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Megan & Eric’s reception perfectly balanced elegance and fun, which reflected them so well as a couple.

From emotional speeches to a packed dance floor (all night!), the night ended exactly how a wedding day should: surrounded by the people who matter most.

Whether you’re planning a classic Catholic wedding, a romantic spring wedding in Columbus, or simply want joyful and natural wedding photography, creating meaningful images that feel like you is always the goal.

Shoutout to all of the vendors that helped make their day memorable!

Photography: Chelsea deRoche Photography
Reception Venue: The Makoy
Music: Dj Opzzy – @djopzzy
Desserts: Jolly Pirate Donuts – @jollypirate.donuts (donuts for guests)
Yellow Couch Bake Shop – @yellowcouchbakeshop (cutting cake)
Flowers: The Flowerman – @flowermanflowers
Hair: Sara Waybright – @saraelizabeth.beauty
Makeup: Ema – @emamua.oh