[ Jessica + Johan ]

In March 2023 I had the honor to capture the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Serano. This young couple decided to exchange vows in front of friends and family at the Grand Manor in Melbourne, Florida. It was lovely to get to know them and meet them beforehand at their engagement shoot.

Their engagement session took place at FIT botanical gardens in Melbourne, Florida. It was my first time meeting them. I love shooting engagement sessions for my wedding couples as it gives me the opportunity to spend time with them before their wedding day. I learned about their love story, family and future plans. I love learning about all the details as it helps me be a better vendor and friend when the big day comes.

Getting Ready – Grand Manor Melbourne, Florida

At the Grand Manor Venue, there are respective bride and groom suites for them to get ready in. When I arrived, Jessica and her brides maids were well on time with hair and make up. They decided to do it themselves. Jessicas soon to be mother in law was busy curling her hair. I grabbed some shots of the girls getting glammed and took some details of her gorgeous dress from Davids Bridal and her rings.

The couple had opted to not use invitations and invite their guests online. This is a growing trend among many brides.

First Look – Grand Manor Melbourne, Florida

Jessica and Johan tend to do some things more traditionally – which I love. They actually opted to not do a first look with each other. They wanted their first time seeing each other to be at the ceremony. I love when couples do this. It does make shooting times a little tricker afterwards, however I love to see the grooms first impression of the bride at the end of the aisle.

The bride did however want to do a first look with her father. He was so excited to see his little girl. There was definitely tears coming down his cheeks after he saw his girl.

Portraits

Ceremony Time!

And so it was time to exchange vows. The couple had many family and friends present. They both really valued family above all and their bridal party actual many consisted of their own family members. The officiant shared how they lived long distance before marriage. They were truly blessed to have a sunny day and perfect weather for their wedding day!

Time for the Reception

I love when couples love to dance! This wedding party had great taste in music and I couldn’t help but dance too! Everyone found their way to the dance floor after shedding tears through the toasts. Johans mom especially had sweet things to say to her new daughter.

At the end of it all, the couple wanted to share one final dance by themselves, all alone. It was so beautiful and romantic. I highly recommend other couples have this moment to themselves at the end of the evening. It goes by quick and it’s a few minutes to let it all sink in before it’s over.

If you are looking for a wedding photographer for your upcoming nuptials, feel free to contact me here. I would love to learn about your vision and plans for your wedding day!