There’s something special about photographing a wedding where you can genuinely feel the love, friendship, and intention behind every moment. This wedding at Terrain Gardens at DeVal was exactly that, a God-centered day filled with joyful emotion, heartfelt vows, nonstop dancing, and some of my favorite portraits I’ve ever created.
I actually became friends with J & R right around the time he was planning his proposal, so when it came time to choose a photographer, I was honored to already be top of mind. I don’t even think they looked anywhere else, and honestly, that level of trust meant everything to me throughout the entire wedding experience.
The Power of Vows
One of the most emotional parts of the day was their ceremony. He started his vows with “hey sweetheart,” and I absolutely melted. Their vows had me in my feelings both during the ceremony and again later while editing their wedding film. I always encourage couples to write personal vows because it makes the ceremony so much more intimate and emotional — and it adds so much depth to your wedding photos and film too.
When trust leads the way
The trust they gave me creatively allowed me to take some of my favorite Terrain Gardens at DeVal wedding photos to date. One portrait in particular came from me taking a creative risk and trying something completely new. Something I only felt confident doing because I knew I had their patience and trust to let me create. During our timeline meeting, they enthusiastically gave me permission to pull them away for sunset portraits, which is every photographer’s dream. The venue coordinator showed us the perfect spot, and I was actively geeking out while taking the photos. Raquel could absolutely serve FACE, and Jeramias had no problem matching her energy.
Beyond the photos, the entire day just felt fun. They are truly each other’s best friend. The playful banter, the goofy moments, and then the way they’d look at each other with pure love and admiration, it was impossible not to smile all day long.
And can we talk about the reception? DJ Jeanyo had the dance floor absolutely packed all night. The bride and groom barely left the floor once the party started.
A venue that checks all the boxes
As for the venue itself, Terrain Gardens at DeVal is quickly becoming one of my favorite Philly wedding venues. Firstly, the food is incredible (which makes sense since Terrain is also known for its restaurant experience). The staff is unbelievably kind, and the aesthetic strikes the perfect balance of garden-inspired elegance with just enough rustic charm. This newest Terrain location also feels brighter and more modern than some of the others. It has lighter walls and a beautifully designed interior that photographs so well. Even the couple mentioned how surprised they were by how much the venue included for the price compared to other wedding venues they toured.
If your dreaming of romantic wedding photos filled with greenery Terrain Gardens at DeVal truly delivers.
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