Ryley + Sumun’s wedding this summer was a vibrant, lively celebration filled with colorful florals, funky signage, and a boatload of emotional moments – all with the lush botanical background of Phipps Conservatory! R + S truly made the day their own, and their sincerity, goofiness, and pure love for each other is on display in every single photo.
When I arrived with my second, Sarah, we were enthusiastically greeted by the couple, who were doing their own makeup in the tiny getting-ready suite in the Tropical Rainforest. They were both super excited to give us their box of details for some detail photos while they finished getting ready. The rainforest space made for an incredible, lush backdrop for these. The dappled light made for some beautiful shadows. Also – can you believe all of these florals are DIY??
After returning the details, Sumun and Ryley went their separate ways to get dressed for their first look. We decided to bring them down by the pond for some privacy. Sumun waited by the water as Ryley made her way down the steps, surrounded by tall grass and flowers. She looked ethereal in the late afternoon sun! Also, Sumun seriously served in that suit and heels combo. Tears and laughs were shared by both as they read their vows – it was such a sweet, genuine moment that I teared up, too!!! :’)
While S + R had their first look, Sarah captured guest candids while they explored Phipps! Everyone stepped out for this wedding, especially Sumun’s dad, whose outfit screamed “ALLY!” (I hope you get this meme reference, dear reader). He even had the couples’ names painted on his nails, and if that doesn’t exemplify the crazy amount of love and support for this couple, I don’t know what will! Their ceremony was officiated by a family friend, and every guest joined in reading a poem to send the couple off!
Before family formals, S + R snuck away with me for some portraits around the conservatory while it was empty. I barely had to prompt or direct them – the pure, unbridled joy and giddiness they had made my job so easy! They even practiced their first dance together in a sweet lil’ private moment.
The day’s decor was super sentimental + vibrant! It was perfect for Phipps. Tasty signature cocktails, tropical colors, and a stunning 3-tier floral cake from Bella Christie’s made for a funky and colorful reception. After a ridiculously fun entrance to the theme song from “The L-Word” and a few tear-jerking toasts, it was time for dinner! Sumun and Ryley wanted to create a menu that fused Indian cuisine with standard wedding faire, and it was AMAZING. Literally some of the best wedding food I’ve ever had. After dinner, S + R cut the cake and shared a choreographed dance to “I’ll Cover You” from Rent, which made my former theatre kid self smile. Finally, it was time to boogie the night away, featuring a legendary Adam Lambert needle drop that made everyone SCREAM. I’m attaching a text I got from Ryley the morning of the wedding…see if you can spot the Adam Lambert cutout.
Want a photographer who will embrace every goofy, vibrant, and sentimental moment of your wedding while scream-singing to Adam Lambert? Let’s chat!
VENDOR TEAM
Venue | Phipps Conservatory
Photography | Afternoon Media, with second Sarah
Catering | Bistro to Go
Cake | Bella Christie’s Sweet Boutique
Rentals | Gray Phoenix Productions
