Dress Smart, Not Just Stylish: A Tip for Choosing the Perfect Wedding GownWhile lace, beading, and intricate sleeves are breathtaking details that add so much personality to a wedding dress, there’s one small thing that brides often don’t think about--comfort under the arms.
As someone who spends 8–10 hours (or more!) capturing every moment of your wedding day, I see firsthand how certain dress details can go from dreamy to distracting as the day goes on. Dresses with heavy beading, lace, or buttons under the arms—or add-on sleeves that shift and tighten—can cause unexpected discomfort, especially during outdoor summer weddings or long dance-filled receptions.
That beautiful beading that catches the light during your ceremony? It might also catch your skin when you're hugging guests or lifting your arms during the cha-cha slide. 😅 And while buttoned or detachable sleeves look gorgeous in photos, they can start to pinch or slide after a few hours of celebrating.
So here’s the tip: when you’re trying on dresses, move around—hug, lift your arms, twist, dance a little. Feel where the fabric hits and how it behaves. If anything feels scratchy or snug in the shop, it’ll feel ten times more noticeable after hours of celebration, movement, and maybe a little sweat.
And for bonus points--bring your bridesmaids, turn up your favorite playlist, and have a mini dance party in the dressing room. You’ll not only get great memories, but also a real feel for how your dress moves when you're living your best wedding day life.
Because the best kind of beauty? It’s the kind that lets you feel like the absolute best version of yourself. ✨

5 Wedding Venues I LOVE Shooting At – Through the Lens of a Photographer & Videographer
After capturing over 300 love stories, I’ve been lucky enough to work at some of the most beautiful wedding venues around Indiana and beyond. As both a photographer and videographer, certain venues just click—whether it’s the way the light pours through the windows, the thoughtful layout, or the stunning natural backdrops that make every frame look like a dream. If you’re on the hunt for a wedding venue, here are my top 5 favorites to shoot at—and why they stand out behind the lens.

1. Montgomery Creek Ranch (Knightstown, IN – formerly Boondocks)This local favorite has quickly become one of my go-to venues. Located in Knightstown, Montgomery Creek Ranch (formerly known as Boondocks) offers over 160 acres of stunning scenery—and every inch is a photographer and videographer’s dream.
From the cozy, rustic lodge to the dreamy bridal suites and the charming barn, it’s the kind of place that gives you so many options to work with. The wildflower fields alone are enough to stop you in your tracks—especially during golden hour. It’s private, peaceful, and beautifully curated for a romantic, laid-back wedding day.

2. The Conservatory at Evergreen (Indianapolis, IN)If you’ve ever dreamed of getting married in a glass house, this is it. The Conservatory at Evergreen is a hidden gem with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that let the light dance in. As a photographer, I’m obsessed with the way the natural light bounces off every surface—it’s truly a golden hour lover’s paradise, all day long.
The pond and surrounding greenery make portrait time a breeze, and the vibe is modern yet organic. Whether it’s an intimate wedding or a larger celebration, the backdrop is effortlessly stunning.

3. The Stables Event Center (Lafayette, IN)The Stables is one of my top five venues for so many reasons—and not just because the owners are incredible humans who truly care about their couples.
This venue is huge in the best way. Multiple indoor and outdoor ceremony spots, expansive open spaces, and breathtaking wildlife make it perfect for capturing every part of the day from a wide range of angles. It’s so versatile for both film and photos, and the natural surroundings always add something magical to the story.

4. New Journey Farms (Lafayette, IN)Modern, spacious, and seriously stunning—New Journey Farms checks all the boxes for a picture-perfect wedding day. The all-white venue offers a bright, clean backdrop that looks incredible on both photo and film.
What I love most? The intentional design. From the prep suites to the ceremony space to the reception hall, everything flows beautifully and is drenched in natural light. It's elegant without being overdone, and the surrounding property offers plenty of photo opportunities whether you want romantic countryside vibes or modern minimalism. Every time I shoot here, I’m blown away by how timeless the final gallery looks.

5. Black Iris Estate (Carmel, IN)Black Iris Estate is elegance, charm, and fairytale romance all wrapped into one stunning location. Nestled in Carmel, it feels like a hidden estate straight out of a storybook—with ivy-covered brick, winding paths, and lush gardens that make every photo feel magical.
From a creative standpoint, this venue is a dream. The natural light indoors is soft and beautiful, and the outdoor ceremony space is framed by towering trees and timeless architecture. Whether we’re capturing those emotional first looks or golden hour portraits on the grounds, Black Iris always delivers a gallery full of rich, romantic moments.

Each of these venues brings something unique to the table—from dreamy lighting and wide-open spaces to thoughtful design and incredible people. Whether you're planning a small celebration or a grand party, choosing the right venue can completely transform your wedding photos and film. And if you’re looking for someone to capture it all—I’d be honored to be part of your story.
Want to see real galleries from these spots? Let’s chat!