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Hannah & Ethan | The Grand Barn at The Mohicans

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Hannah & Ethan’s Romantic Wedding at The Grand Barn at The Mohicans | Glenmont, Ohio

When a wedding day forecast includes heavy rain, severe storms, and even the possibility of tornadoes, most couples would understandably be a little nervous. Hannah and Ethan, however, spent their day focused on what mattered most; celebrating their love with the people who mean the most to them.

Their wedding at The Grand Barn at The Mohicans in Glenmont, Ohio was filled with laughter, happy tears, unforgettable moments, and one of the most joyful brides I’ve ever photographed.

From the moment I arrived, Hannah’s smile never left her face. Through every hug, every emotional moment, every laugh with friends, and every glance toward Ethan, her happiness radiated throughout the entire day. It was impossible not to feel it.

Getting Ready at The Mohicans Treehouses

One of the things that makes The Mohicans such a unique Ohio wedding venue is that it’s so much more than just a wedding location. The property features beautiful treehouses, cabins, and lodging options that allow couples and their guests to turn their wedding into an entire weekend experience.

Hannah and Ethan took full advantage of everything the venue has to offer by staying right on-site. After the wedding celebration ended, their honeymoon suite was just a short walk away across a bridge. Having everything in one location made the day feel relaxed, intentional, and incredibly convenient for everyone involved.

As Hannah got ready, one of my favorite moments was watching her cousin and maid of honor care for her throughout the morning. Every few minutes she would gently ask, “How are you?” checking in to make sure Hannah was soaking in every moment. Their relationship was such a beautiful reflection of the love and support surrounding the couple all day long.

A Meaningful First Touch and Private Vows

Rather than choosing a traditional first look, Hannah and Ethan decided on a first touch. Standing around the corner from one another, they held hands without seeing each other and shared private vows before the ceremony. It created such an intimate and emotional moment while still preserving the excitement of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony. As they exchanged their words, Ethan became unexpectedly emotional. You could hear the love and sincerity in every sentence, and before long, tears began to flow. It was one of those quiet moments that reminds you what a wedding day is truly about. Its not the timeline, not the details, but the promises being made between two people who deeply love each other.

A Wedding Day That Defied the Forecast

Throughout the entire week leading up to the wedding, the forecast called for rain, storms, and severe weather. Yet somehow, the weather held off at exactly the right moments. The ceremony took place without interruption. Family portraits were completed. Wedding party photos went smoothly. Guests enjoyed the beautiful scenery surrounding The Grand Barn at The Mohicans.

As we wrapped up Hannah and Ethan’s just-married portraits, thunder began growing louder in the distance. The sky darkened and it became clear that the storm we’d been watching all day was finally approaching. After finishing their final portraits, I told the couple it was time to head inside so Hannah could bustle her dress before their grand entrance and almost immediately afterward, the rain arrived. The storm rolled through while guests celebrated inside, creating a cozy atmosphere during dinner. Then, just as quickly as it had arrived, the rain moved on, leaving plenty of time for guests to enjoy the outdoor dance floor later in the evening.

The Most Fun Dollar Dance I’ve Ever Seen

One wedding tradition I had never experienced before was their version of a dollar dance. Guests could gift money to dance with the bride or groom but there was one important requirement first- they had to take a shot. Guest after guest happily lined up, took their shot, and headed straight to the dance floor. It immediately energized the room and became the perfect transition into an incredible night of dancing. One guest arrived fully prepared, proudly pulling out a $100 bill before stepping onto the dance floor. Even better, Hannah’s grandparents fully embraced the tradition. Grandpa and Grandma not only gifted money to the couple, but each enthusiastically took their lemon drop shots before making their way onto the dance floor. Watching them participate brought so much laughter and joy to everyone in attendance.

The Vendors, The Details, and The Incredible Food

Something that stood out throughout the entire day was how incredible every vendor team was. Every single person involved went above and beyond to make Hannah and Ethan’s wedding unforgettable. The level of teamwork, professionalism, and genuine care was evident in every detail. The reception space looked absolutely stunning, and I’ve honestly never seen a buffet table decorated so beautifully. Every element felt thoughtful and intentional, creating an elevated experience for guests while still feeling warm and welcoming.

Family and friends poured so much love into the celebration that there were enough homemade desserts for everyone there and probably enough to serve the guest count three times over. The dessert display became a reflection of the community surrounding Hannah and Ethan: generous, supportive, and overflowing with love.

A Day Full of Laughter, Tears, and Love

Hannah and Ethan’s wedding at The Grand Barn at The Mohicans was a beautiful reminder that the best wedding days aren’t perfect because everything goes according to plan (we had to pivot with a few things on the timeline and I may have used my teacher voice during family formals and wedding party portraits to make sure we got just married portraits done before the storm) they’re perfect because they’re filled with genuine connection, meaningful moments, and people who show up wholeheartedly to celebrate. Guests came from many cities, states and even another country to celebrate the love.

Planning a Wedding at The Grand Barn at The Mohicans?

If you’re planning a wedding at The Grand Barn at The Mohicans in Glenmont, Ohio and are searching for a wedding photographer who values authentic moments, genuine emotions, and storytelling imagery, I’d love to hear more about your plans.

Whether your wedding day includes sunshine, storms, private vows, family traditions, or unforgettable dance floor moments, your story deserves to be documented exactly as it unfolds.

Vendors:

Photography: @Chelseaderochephotography
Venue: @themohicans
Planning & Coordination: @thesignatureevent
Florals: @fourseasonsweddingflorist
Catering: @tables4us
Makeup: @always_elegant_llc
Hair: @katilynboyer
DJ: @partypleasersevents – Emmy
Strings: @columbusmusicians
Officiant: @revcindyriggsweddings
Live panting: @fineartsbylogan

Pat & Stephanie | Timberframe Lodge, Hocking Hills OH

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Stephanie & Patrick’s Romantic Timberframe Lodge Wedding in Hocking Hills

Some wedding days feel beautiful from the very beginning and Stephanie & Patrick’s wedding in Hocking Hills was one of those days you never forget.

From the emotional speeches to the nonstop smiles, every part of their celebration felt deeply personal and centered around the people and places they love most. Their wedding took place at the stunning Timberframe Lodge by Woodland Retreats, surrounded by rolling woods, cozy cabins, and the friends and family who have walked alongside them throughout their relationship.

As a wedding photographer, these are the kinds of weddings that stay with you long after the gallery is delivered.

A Meaningful Hocking Hills Wedding Venue

Hocking Hills already held significance for Stephanie & Patrick before their wedding day ever arrived. It was the destination of their very first getaway together while dating which made it the perfect place to begin this next chapter of their lives. Instead of hosting a traditional one-day celebration, they created a full wedding weekend experience for their guests by renting both Timberframe Lodge and the Hocking Manor House. Their friends and family stayed onsite together and they turned the weekend into something intimate, relaxed, and unforgettable.

A Wedding Date Full of Meaning

Stephanie & Patrick intentionally chose a date that already meant everything to them- their shared birthday. It also happened to be the anniversary of Patrick’s proposal, making their wedding date layered with memories they’ll continue celebrating forever. This also meant they got to enter their reception to “In Da Club” by 50 Cent which was a first for me and I loved it. Instead of cutting their cake, their guests sang Happy Birthday to the two of them and they blew out the candles together.
It’s always incredible to photograph weddings where every detail has heart behind it, and their day was filled with meaningful touches like this from beginning to end.

Surrounded by Their Closest Friends

One of the first things you noticed throughout the day was just how loved these two are. Their large wedding party reflected years of deep friendship and relationships they truly treasure. The energy all morning was joyful, emotional, and supportive in the best way possible. Bridesmaid’s significant others were thrown into helping roles such as steaming dresses last minute and didn’t hesitate to help. Everyone present clearly understood how special Stephanie & Patrick’s relationship is.

Every moment of the day, you could literally see the love radiating between the two of them. Whether they were laughing during portraits, listening to speeches, or simply holding hands during the reception, their connection felt effortless and genuine.

The Sweetest, Most Emotional First Look

Before the ceremony, Stephanie & Patrick shared one of the most emotional first looks I’ve photographed. The second Stephanie walked up behind him, Patrick was already fighting back tears before he even turned around. Once he finally saw her, he completely broke down and kept repeating “You’re so pretty” throughout the first look. It was one of those moments that perfectly captures what wedding days are really about — not the timeline, the details, or the production of it all, but the overwhelming emotion of marrying your person. You could feel how deeply these two love each other in that moment, and it was impossible not to get emotional right alongside them. And Stephanie? Easily one of the smiliest brides I’ve ever photographed.

A Personalized Ceremony Officiated by Family

Their ceremony was made even more special by Patrick’s Uncle Drew who got ordained just for Pat & Steph’s big day. He even had a special tie created with their names and wedding date on it. Having a family member lead the ceremony created such an intimate and personal atmosphere. Every story, every word, and every emotion felt uniquely tailored to Stephanie & Patrick and the life they’ve built together. Don’t get me wrong, having a professional marry you will always go smoothly like a well oiled machine but having someone who personally knows you officiate your wedding will always be my number one choice.

Emotional Wedding Speeches That Had Everyone Crying

The reception speeches were so heartfelt and full of emotion coming from siblings. Each toast was thoughtful and deeply sentimental, but Patrick’s brother Joey completely brought the room to tears. Myself included.

The entire reception felt less like a formal wedding event and more like one giant celebration of love, friendship, family, and history together.

Planning a Timberframe Lodge Wedding in Hocking Hills?

If you’re dreaming of a wedding weekend surrounded by nature, meaningful moments, and your favorite people, Timberframe Lodge by Woodland Retreats is such an incredible venue choice. Between the beautiful scenery, lodging accommodations, and cozy atmosphere, it’s perfect for couples wanting a wedding experience that feels intentional and connected from start to finish.

If you’re currently searching for an Ohio wedding photographer who values candid moments, emotional storytelling, and authentic connection, I would absolutely love to document your day.

Shout out to the vendors that made this day possible:
Photography: Chelsea deRoche Photography
Wedding Planner: RM Events
Bar & Beverage: Flannigans
Beauty: Le Reve Makeup & Hair
Cake: Jenna’s Bakeshop
Catering: Scott Rothwell
Cinema: B In The Moment Media
Entertainment: Beat Squad Entertainment
Florals: Solidago SistersRentals & Decor:
Personal Touch Party Rentals & Events

Megan & Eric | The Makoy, Hilliard OH

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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

Haley & Megan | The Makoy, Hilliard OH

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Haley & Megan’s Romantic November Wedding at The Makoy in Hilliard

If you’re searching for inspiration for a fall wedding in Ohio, Haley and Megan’s November wedding at The Makoy is the perfect example of how to blend meaningful moments, family traditions, and an unforgettable party. Located just outside Columbus, The Makoy offers a stunning and versatile space for couples planning a modern, elegant wedding day.

A Ceremony Filled with Meaningful Family Moments

Before the ceremony Haley and Megan chose to share a private moment with each other to read private vows.

Haley and Megan’s ceremony was deeply personal and centered around family. Both of their brothers stood by their sides in the bridal party, adding an extra layer of support and significance.

One of the most heartfelt moments of the day was Haley choosing her mom as her maid of honor—a beautiful reflection of their close bond. During the ceremony, Megan’s grandmother gave a special reading that brought emotion and stillness to the room.

Personalized Wedding Details & a One-of-a-Kind Dessert Table

Thoughtful, personal details were woven throughout the entire day. Tiny Disney details, theater details here and there. One standout element was the dessert table, where Megan’s mom baked all of the cookies from scratch. This incredible display not only looked beautiful but added a meaningful, homemade touch that made the reception feel even more intimate. Plus their extremely personalized and thoughtful gifts for their guests that were made with their home states in mind.

Sunset Wedding Portraits in the November Glow

November weddings in Ohio come with cooler temperatures—but Haley and Megan embraced it completely. After their ceremony, we stepped outside for sunset portraits, capturing that soft, glowing light that makes fall weddings so magical.

The crisp air paired with golden-hour light created the perfect setting for romantic “just married” photos. These moments are always worth it, and Haley and Megan’s portraits are proof that late-fall weddings can be incredibly stunning.

A High-Energy Reception at The Makoy

The reception started in a way that set the tone for the entire night; with a full group photo on the dance floor. Immediately after, Haley and Megan invited all of the women to join them for a special dance, creating a joy-filled moment that brought everyone together.

From that point on, the dance floor at The Makoy stayed packed all night long. Guests showed up ready to celebrate, and the energy never faded, making it the perfect ending to an already unforgettable day.

Planning a Wedding at The Makoy

If you’re planning a wedding in Hilliard or the greater Columbus area, The Makoy is an incredible venue choice. With its versatile spaces, convenient location, and beautiful design, attentive full service staff, it’s perfect for couples who want a wedding day that feels both effortless and unforgettable.

Haley and Megan’s wedding is a perfect example of how meaningful moments, intentional details, and a packed dance floor can come together to create a truly memorable celebration.

Tyler & Ellie | Swan Lake Event Center 2025

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Tyler & Ellie’s Perfect Fall Wedding at Swan Lake Event Center in Powell, Ohio
If you’re searching for inspiration for a timeless yet personality-filled Ohio wedding, Tyler & Ellie’s perfect fall wedding at Swan Lake Event Center in Powell, Ohio is a beautiful example of how meaningful moments, seasonal charm, and joyful energy can come together; rain or shine.

A Cozy Fall Morning & Perfectly Timed Ceremony Weather
The day began with light rain drifting in and out throughout the fall morning, adding a cozy, romantic atmosphere to the getting-ready hours. The soft, overcast skies paired with the changing season created that unmistakable autumn wedding feel. Just in time for the ceremony, the rain cleared, leaving behind fresh air and a perfect setting for Tyler & Ellie to say “I do.”

A Ceremony Full of Personal Touches (Including Their Dog!)
Tyler & Ellie made their ceremony uniquely their own by including the people—and pup—they love most. Their niece and nephews took on the roles of flower girl and ring bearers, bringing a playful, heartfelt energy as they walked down the aisle. One of the most unforgettable highlights was their adorable dog, Reggie joining in for the ceremony, adding personality, warmth, and a touch of fun that guests absolutely loved as they all found him for a quick pet.

Golden Fall Light for Just Married Portraits
One of the most magical parts of the day came right after the ceremony, when the sun finally peeked through the clouds. The golden fall light created a warm, glowing backdrop for Tyler & Ellie’s just married portraits at Swan Lake Event Center. Combined with the natural beauty of the venue and the richness of the season, their photos captured that dreamy autumn wedding aesthetic couples love.

Private Vows: An Intimate Post-Ceremony Moment
While the ceremony was shared with loved ones, Tyler & Ellie chose to exchange private vows afterward—just the two of them. This quiet, intentional moment allowed them to slow down and fully take in the meaning of the day, creating a memory that felt deeply personal and authentic.

Emotional & Joyful Wedding Speeches
The reception began with speeches from their siblings that struck the perfect balance between humor and heartfelt emotion. There were moments of uncontrollable laughter followed by tears, reflecting the deep love and connection within their families.

Having photographed all three Chumita sibling weddings, this celebration carried an extra layer of meaning. Being invited back to document another milestone for the same family is something I’ll never take for granted.

A Packed Dance Floor & A Fun “Golden” Moment
From the very first song, the dance floor stayed packed all night long. Guests brought incredible energy, making it a truly unforgettable celebration. One of the standout moments was a high-energy, hyped-up version of “Golden,” played especially for their niece and nephews. It turned into a joyful, high-spirited dance floor highlight that perfectly matched the fun-loving atmosphere of the night.

Planning Your Own Fall Wedding at Swan Lake Event Center
Swan Lake is one of the most popular wedding venues in Central Ohio thanks to its rare combination of natural beauty and practical design. Set on 20 scenic acres with a lake, wooded areas, and garden spaces, it offers couples a true destination-style setting without leaving the state. The venue is especially loved for its variety of ceremony locations—including waterfront, meadow, forest, and waterfall backdrops—allowing each couple to customize their experience. With a seamless indoor-outdoor flow between the reception hall and terrace overlooking the lake, it works beautifully in all seasons. Couples also appreciate the convenience of on-site getting-ready suites, helpful coordination, and the ability to host both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations with ease. Overall, Swan Lake Event Center is known for being both visually stunning and stress-free.

Vendors
Photography: @chelseaderochephotography
Videographer: @columbusweddingvideos
Catering: @hudsons_edge
Desserts: @nothingbundtcakes
DJ: @turnupcolumbus DJ Cove
Flowers: @cmlflowers
Hair & Makeup: @lauren.thelovelycollective & @hairbyheidi2025 & @luxebyleahs