The Ballroom at Church Street
There is always a beautiful story behind every relationship. For Marysia and Xavier, it is a magical one straight out of Disney. They met at Disney's EPCOT in 2008. Xavier knew he wanted to be happily ever after with his princess and did everything possible to just see her each day when he was at work by switching shifts and stations. And lucky for him, Marysia noticed. When they decided that they wanted a fairytale wedding at The Ballroom at Church Street to go with their Beauty and The Beast theme, Xavier worked hard taking up three jobs to make sure his princess got her dream wedding. When I heard this, I was so touched, all I wanted was to make sure I capture this special day to preserve it forever for them. I am so happy for Marysia and Xavier!! Congratulations to the both of you!! Of course once again I had an incredible that made my job easier.
Credits:
Photographer: Anna So Photography
Second Photographer: Anthony Sassano
Coordinator: Lynn Echevarria Stuckas, Your Events by L&L LLC
Makeup Artist: Marissa Stuckas
Cinematography: Magnafoto, Benamin Pena
DJ: Cliff Bell, CRB Entertainment
Florist: Mrs Kelly Dixon, Union Blooms Floral Weddings
Cake: Amber, Party Flavor Custom Cakes
Caterer: Amy Biggs, Puff n Stuff of Ballroom at Church Street
Officient: Mann McMillian
Linen: Eli Zaragoza, Linen Creation by JEG
Photobooth: Trung Nguyen, SNAP! Studio Booth
Transportation: Josh, Apollo's Chariots
Location: Ballroom at Church Street
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I have known David and Melanie for many years. This is our second maternity session together. The first one was with Carson and now Carson is going to be a big brother to Beckham in just less than two weeks. I don't have children of my own but having the opportunity to capture David and Melanie's journey in life together has given me great joy. It's amazing seeing Carson growing up so fast. It was just like yesterday that I photographed Melanie's pregnancy with him. Well, in just about two more weeks I'll be able to help welcome Beckham to the world.
This has been a crazy winter season in Florida. One day it is hot the next cold. The forecast said it was suppose to rain all weekend. Originally I wanted to do the session at a different location but decided to go to my favorite place, Rollins College. I figured if it rains, there will be some roofed areas for us to do our photo shoot. It turned out to be a nice sunny and crisp Florida winter day. I can never get tired of Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. The azaleas are blooming!!
I was thrilled when Leah wanted to do a fun boudoir session for her husband to be. And I was even more thrilled when she said I can blog about it. This was a super easy session done at Leah's resident in Orlando, Florida. We Kept it simple.
"Beauty and femininity are ageless and can't be contrived, and glamour, although the manufacturers won't like this, cannot be manufactured. Not real glamour; it's based on femininity." ~ Marilyn Monoe
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January 14, 2017
I first met Kori and Brian in May 2016 at Rollins College for their engagement session. I knew they were perfect for each other back then. I have been looking forward to their wedding all these months. We started off with the bridal preparation at Courtyard by Marriott in Cocoa Beach, Fl. The ceremony was at Ascension Catholic Church in Melbourne. It was a very beautiful church where Brian attended when he was a young boy. Both Kori and Brian are devoted Catholic.
My favorited place of the day was Birdsong Barn. I'm starting to realize that there are many barns in Central Florida and each one is as adorable as the other. This adorable barn is located at the end of a small road in Titusville, Florida. GPS will drop you off before you actually get there, luckily I saw a sign on the side of the road. The first thing I noticed when I got out the car to unload my equipment was the sound of birds singing. This place is chic from the grounds to the table cloth. I decided to take bohemian rustic with the editing. But of course I always keep the original classic and timeless style as an option for all my clients.
Thank you Kori and Brian for giving me the opportunity to be part of your big day!!
Other Credits
Decorations: Betsy Armstrong
Flowers: Mary Carley
Caterer: A Chef's Touch
DJ: DJ Tunes
Hair and Makeup: Glamour Room by Jaime
Bartending: Absolute Bartending
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Orange County Courthouse., Orlando, Florida
Taplan and Megan got hitched today at the Orange County Courthouse in Orlando, Florida. I am so honored to have encountered these two beautiful people through my friend Missy. I had many ups and downs in my life including relationships but I never gave up. I kept with my beliefs. I believe in soul mates and true love, fate and destiny. A course of life can change with just one chance encounter. I believe in friendship old and new. Missy is my new friend and from my encounter with her, I met Taplan and Megan, an amazing and loving couple. I believe a photograph is powerful and the memories capture is priceless. We had such a great afternoon photographing around downtown Orlando. We encountered the firefighters at the Downtown Orlando Fire Station. They were so friendly and kind even offered us the use of their firetruck. Wow!! I was expecting to get kicked off the area but instead, they open their doors to us. I still believe in people.
Please enjoy a few fun photos from out day.
Congratulations Taplan & Megan
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I believe in soul mates and true love. Tara and Kathy have been together for so many years. They both moved to Orlando, Florida together from up north many moons ago. I am so happy that they will have the chance to tie the knot. I am looking forward to their big day!!
Here are a few photos from their engagement.
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I had the pleasure photographing Yana's maternity and now it was my honor to photograph her new baby and family. This was an amazing December day in Winter Park Florida. We went for a nice stroll at Rollins College. It was perfect timing since the students are on winter break from school and away visiting families back home.
Here are a few photos from our day.
I have been looking forward to Allie and Brandon's special day all year long. I enjoyed photographing them at the engagements session so much, I couldn't wait until the BIG DAY. We started the day off at Loews Sapphire Falls at Universal Studios. This was the perfect place for our pre ceremony session. Our next stop was Dubsdread historic Ballroom in Orlando, Florida. Allie and Brandon had decided to do an intimate first look before the ceremony which was perfect for a December afternoon. We had great lighting and the most beautiful sunset. I love all the weddings I photographed but this one in at the top.
Here are a few photos from Allie and Brandon's special day.
The sweetest of days are shared with your inner circle, your family and close friends. All you need is great company and great food.
I was very lucky to have this special day available. I love spending just a few hours capturing these special moments. It was a typical beautiful sunny Saturday morning in Orlando, Florida. Finding Jacquie and George's house as I pulled into their quiet neighborhood was super easy. All I had to do was follow the guests walking in and the smell of delicious food being prepared by Puff n Stuff. I can feel the excitement in the air as I walked in the house. The guests were already mingling with George, very handsome in his tux from Absolute Fitting in Winter Park, Fl. I found Jacquie in the bedroom getting her final touch up with hair and makeup by J. Christine Salon in Doctor Phillips. And Ladies, you don't have to spend thousands or hundreds of dollars for a wedding dress. Jacquie looked amazing in her white dress by BCBG.
The ceremony was absolutely precious. It was set on the pool deck in the backyard all decorated with gorgeous flowers by Windermere Flowers and Gifts. The wedding procession started with Jacquie's daughters being escorted by George's sons. Jacquie was escorted by her best friend to the beautiful song Ave Maria performed by violinist, Victor Bowers. . The ceremony was officiated by Jacquie's brother-in-law. They had a short and sweet ceremony followed by photo session and an amazing lunch reception catered by Puff n Stuff.
Here are a few photos from out morning.
Enjoy!
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I was referred by Rebecca's mother for this beautiful wedding. I have shot many weddings at the Rosen Plaza before but this is the only time we decided to go across the street to do first look and newlywed photos at The Orange County Convention Center. I normally go to Rosen Shingle Creek to do newlywed photos but thought we would save the drive. I am so happy that Rebecca and Robert decided to do the first look and follow by bridal party photos. The wedding was at sunset which means we will have no light afterwards. They made the perfect decision. We ended up getting some amazing photos. It was my pleasure being a part of Rebecca and Robert's special day. I am fortunate have witnessed their love and union.
Here are some photos of their day. Remember these photos are just the tip of the iceberg. There are more photos coming soon in your full gallery.
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November 18, 2016 at Greenwood Urban Wetland, Orlando, Florida
It was serendipity when I found Greenwood Urban Wetland for my couples portrait session this morning. I was on my way to scout out a location the day before at Baldwin Park when the pond caught my eye. I decided to do both my photo sessions I have scheduled for today here. It just happens to be in Missy and Mia's neighborhood. This is where they enjoy their daily walks. By the way, Missy is the tall blonde and Mia is the short one. I love your place Mia!!
Ashley, Jessie and Ollie
November 18, 2016 at Greenwood Urban Wetland, Orlando, Florida
It is always great to have new photos before the Holidays. When Ashley and Jessie told me they wanted to have their family photos done, I needed to fine a quiet place that is dog friendly. I had the dog park in Baldwin Park in mind and decided to scout out the area the day before but never made it there. As I was driving there, a sparkle from a pond caught my eye. I have drove by this pond for the last 15 years and never thought to stop. So I said to myself, heck, I'm already here I might as well check it out. Wow!! To my surprise, it is a wetland right next to downtown. This must be the place where the stream from Azalea Dickson Park must flow into. We got some country chic photos in the middle of the city.
Got to love Orlando, The City Beautiful.
Lake Mary, Florida
I have been looking forward to photographing Tori and Chris's big day since I first met them. I made sure I arrive extra early to Timacuan Golf and Country Club in Lake Mary, Florida since this was my first wedding there. Just a quick drive from Orlando, this place has the southern charms you are looking for with well established trees and hanging Spanish mosses, my favorite. The property has several beautiful bridges that are perfect for sunset newlywed photos.
Upon arrival, after meeting with the bridal party, I met with David DeAssis, the Director of Operation for Timacuan Golf and Country Club. It was nice that he was available to show me around and gave me ideas on where to go for our first look and bridal party photos. He also informed me that they had provided us with golf carts to drive on the golf course for the newlywed photos after the ceremony. David was very professional and on point with all the activities which made my day super easy.
It was an honor to have the opportunity to be a part of Victoria and Chris's special day. I have a front row view to all their special moments.
Please enjoy these photos of their day and feel free to leave me a message at the end.
Here are a few photos from their special day.
Cheers!!
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Brittany and Kurt got engaged at a spot where few might notice the beauty. Tucked away behind the walkway from Loews Portofino Bay Resort to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, there are beautiful gardens with bamboos, foliage and flowering trees. I have been familiar with all of Universal Studios properties for many years and I have no idea this place existed. This amazing place is easily missed if you are in a hurry to go get in lines for the amusement parks and not stop to smell the roses. Well, one couple did stop and they got engaged there. Brittany and Kurt wanted to revisit the spot where they got engaged and do a photo session with me. They were a bit nervous and shy at first but I told them that I will make them look great. I am very thankful that I got to be part of their lives.
Here are few sneak peeks of our afternoon.
I met Joanndeliz and Eric while I was setting for a wedding at The Crystal Ballroom at Veranda in Metro West Florida. It was fate that the three of us met. It is my honor to have the opportunity to capture this lovely couple at one of my favorite places, Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. Rollins College is actually the oldest college in Florida. It is an all in one place with unique architecture, beautiful rose gardens, quite trails along the lake and high cypress with haning Spanish moss. It makes for the best backdrop for any occasion from engagement photos to family photos. I like to change locations from time to time but I always find myself back at Rollins. Joanndeliz and Eric are perfect together for this location.
Joanndeliz, Eric and I had so much fun on our afternoon session that we kept going until the sun went down. I can't wait for their special day.
Here are some photos from our Florida photo session.
Enjoy!!
Located about an hour drive from Orlando, Florida, The Enchanting Barn is perfect for your vintage and rustic wedding. When I first visited this place with Kelly and Mike to capture their engagement photos, I knew that this place will be a hit. This beautiful barn sits on an open field of grass with a pond and a vintage pickup truck. I have waited for months to finally capture Kelly and Mike's wedding.
Congratulations Kelly and Michael!! Your wedding was so amazing. Here are a few photos from your special day.
Enjoy everyone!
Special thanks to
The Enchanting Barn for providing an incredible venue
Valarie Speed with All That Glitz Events for the seamless coordinating
Robbie Memorable DJ Entertainment for creating all the excitement
Jennifer Roberts Warrington with Party Shots Orlando for the awesome photo booth
And
Tony Sassano for helping me with the photos.
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Drena and I hit it off right away after our first meeting. She told me a little bit about Norman (PJ). She said he hates being photographed. I told her no worries, leave it to me. It will be a piece of cake and harmless. All three of us are very busy and have opposite schedules so it took us a few weeks to set a date. For Drena and PJ, I picked Kraft Azalea Garden in Winter Park, Florida. One of my go to places for an early morning engagement photo session. Florida's October weather was perfect with some nice cool breeze. The park has beautiful, well established trees with hanging Spanish moss. They provided the perfect shade from the morning golden sun. PJ didn't know it but he was a natural at being photographed. We were all having a great time and I couldn't wait to come to edit these photos. Here are a few photos from our session today.
Cheers!!
Melissa and Mark are the most sweetest couple I had the pleasure of photographing and getting to know. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with them. I had a great experience photographing their wedding at Lake Mary Event Center. This beautiful place is tucked away next to a peaceful lake overlooking the sunset. It was a pleasure to work with the nicest and friendliest staff. And as always it is an honor to work with Soundwave Entertainment. Thanks Wendy for keeping things run smoothly and thank you Les for creating the best excitement!!
Please check out the beautiful sunset wedding at Lake Mary Event Center in Lake Mary, Florida.
Enjoy!
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Temecula is a beautiful wine country in southern California not too far from San Diego. I have been to Napa and Sonoma before but had no idea that they can make great wines in southern California. Thanks to Dominique and Jason, I had an amazing time at Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula, Ca. I can't wait for their wedding on September 8, 2017.
Here are a few photos from our day.
Thank you Dominique and Jason for you hospitality, great food, wine and brew. My only regret was not partaking in the sparkling wine during our brunch...but I have to stay focused...
Here are few photos from our brief session.
This was my first Coptic Orthodox wedding. Marianne and Patrick reminded me of why I love to photograph weddings. It's not just capturing the love between two people but the love of an entire community of a culture I've never experienced before. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to experience your culture and to capture the beginning of your lives together.
I'm not much of a blogger so I'm just going to post some photos from Brina and Michael's journey together with me.
First Comes love...Brina & Michael got engaged on New Years Eve 2014.
Then comes marriage...Brina & Michael tied the knot on April 10, 2015.
Then comes a baby...Brina & Michael found out they are expecting on July 3, 2015.
And introducing baby William and his very own carriage!!
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Thank you Yana and Sean!!
Here are a few photos from our shoot.
Enjoy!!
During our initial meeting I offered to do an engagement session for them and mentioned that I've always wanted to do a session at Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort. To my surprise, they LOVE the real New Orleans, Louisiana. So we decided to meet there. Of course as predicted with Florida's weather, it rained all afternoon. We didn't let a little rain stop us though.
Here are a few photos from our session.
Cheers!!
Here are a few photos from the wedding. As you might see, Florida weather is against me again. Never enough time to capture what I want to capture.
Enjoy!!
Here are a few photos from our afternoon. Enjoy!!
We started off at St. Luke's Lutheran Church in Oviedo, Florida. After the ceremony we headed off to Splitsville at Disney Springs. It was a typical Florida June day, hot and humid. We did a bit of rushing around trying to stay as cool as possible and not get caught by the afternoon rain. We did it!! Manage to stay dry.
This was my first bowling alley reception. It was pretty entertaining. I did not know what to expect but it was all fun!! Thank you Sam and Ray for giving me this opportunity!!
Of course as always I couldn't have done it all by myself. Thank you to my second photographer Anthony Sassano.
Thank you Alex Owens from Plan It Event Design and Management.
I had the greatest pleasure capturing Elizabeth and Nate's special day. Capturing love with these was very easy. They have so much affection for one another. I noticed this since the first we all met at their engagement session. My favorite was Cole, their little boy. He had one of the biggest role in this big day, helping mommy put her shoes on. Please enjoy viewing a few photos from their big day.
Thank you to all the vendors, families and friends for making Elizabeth and Nate's day so special. I couldn't have done it without all of you!!
Venue: Orange County Regional History Center
Coordinator/Officiant: Catherine T Pick, Ceremonies by Catherine
Photography: Anna So Photography
Videography: K&M Video
DJ: DJ Ives Ent
Catering: Cocktails Catering
Florist: Winter Springs Florist
Hair & Makeup: Lux Artistry
Cake: It's Tasty Too
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It's not everyday when your friend gets engaged and she asks you to be her photographer. It is a great honor for me. She has seen tons of the wedding and engagement photos I did. It wasn't by choice of course. I have always been very passionate about my work that I made it a point to show her. I can't wait for her big day on March 11, 2017.
So we have been planning and waiting for the right time to do the engagement session and decided to drive out to Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales from Orlando, Florida. I have shot engagement sessions there before so I am familiar with the beautiful place. I can never get tired of this place. There is always something new every time I go back. This was the perfect place for Leah and Dave. They were looking for woods, wild flowers, and nature. I would have kept on shooting if it hadn't started raining...Florida weather for ya...
Here are a few photos from the session
Cheers!!
Date: May 21, 2016
Wow!! My first Nigerian wedding. It was an amazing experience. Thank you Latoya and AJ for inviting me to capture your special day with your family and friends. I knew it was going to be challenging with 11 bridesmaids and 10 groomsmen but I'm always up for a challenge. At the end, it all worked out. I've waited for this day to come since our first meeting.
We started the day off at Embassy Suites in Downtown Orlando, Florida. Our first look was at Capital Plaza located across from Lake Eola. A week before the wedding I have searched everywhere nearby for a unique background for their first look and I came across a beautiful fountain there and thought it was perfect. It was close to Embassy Suites and private. We got some beautiful quick first look photos and then we headed off to Mayor Carl Langford Park about a mile away for a few bridal party photos. This is one of my favorite parks in Orlando. It is a diamond in the rough, you wouldn't think there is a beautiful park like this so close to downtown.
Our last stop was Crystal Ballroom at Veranda in Metrowest Orlando, Florida. A beautiful location and very easy to photograph for both ceremony and reception.
The following images are just some of the highlights from my beautiful couple, Latoya and AJ's special day. I had the greatest pleasure capturing their engagement photos and their big day. I will remember it forever.
Special thanks to all the vendors who helped me make this day memorable for Latoya & AJ
Photography: Anna So Photography (Anna So, Tony Sassano, Ashley Beltz)
Videographer: Drew Mims
Stylist: Dan Smith
Hair: Natalya Somers
Makeup: Jo Michelle and Dareshawn
Venue: Crystal Ballroom at Veranda
Coordinator: Party Life Productions, Shanae Hall
Caterer: Wishful Concepts
Cake: Anna Cakes
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My drive from Orlando to Howey-In-The-Hills for the big day started off with the typical Florida weather, heavy wind and rain. I was worried for a second but I had hope on my side. Just as I pulled into Mission Inn, it already went down to a drizzle. As the hour went by and I was finishing up with detail and getting ready shots, it completely stopped raining. We ended up with the most beautiful sunset shining through the Spanish moss hanging from the majestic cypress trees which provided a beautiful backdrop for Jennifer & Andrew's May wedding in Florida.
Thank you to an amazing team who helped make my job easier. Tony Sassano (second photographer), Mission Inn Resorts & Club Weddings, Elegant Entertainment DJ and Video Services Orlando, Bluegrass Chic, BCupcakes and Publix. And thank you Dana at Mission Inn for all your help.
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Congratulations Jessica & Josue.