Spring Wedding at the Ohio Statehouse | Columbus Ohio Photography

It was an absolutely perfect spring day for a wedding at the Ohio Statehouse for Ashley and Chase! After traveling to their home in New York City only to have it downpour nonstop for the duration of their engagement session, I was REALLY hoping that the rain that was predicted would make other arrangements – and it certainly did! What a gorgeous spring day!

There are countless reasons that this venue is at the top of my list of favorites, but I’ll state the obvious and start with it’s gorgeous architecture and ornate details throughout. These incredible colorful rugs and black and white checkered flooring are all so pretty! Ashley heading up the stairs to prepare for her first look with her soon to be husband, Chase.

Just look at their expressions of pure joy and happiness! Choosing to do a first look together certainly didn’t dampen any experience for them. I love this so much!

I love this cute and candid shot of the bridesmaids peeking out the window at the bride and groom while they were having portraits taken!

After spending some time outside, we headed inside the Statehouse to take advantage of all of the incredible locations for photos. Every hallway, staircase, light fixture, window and pillar is full of opportunities to create beautiful photos.

The Senate staircase is a must during the day with the gorgeous light that pours through the windows. Between the beautiful stone arches and unique mosaic tile floor, there are just so many ornate details that make it among the favorite spots for many.

This staircase alone is full of drama!

Since they chose to do a first look together, they were able to set aside time to take care of the must-have family group portraits before the ceremony. This spot near the Rotunda was the perfect spot out of the way of arriving guests and people setting up for the ceremony.

These in-between candid moments are among my favorites to capture. This is one of the reasons I generally insist on having two photographers for wedding day coverage. There are just too many moments to be captured!

Ok it’s ceremony time in the Rotunda and here comes the bride! I love this set up at the Statehouse – having the bride come down the steps just outside of the main ceremony space. She’s able to see her groom from here too! I can only imagine how sweet this moment was for her dad as well.

Could the bridesmaids be any cuter? I love the excitement on their faces as they are watching their friend walk down the aisle!

And the groom watching his bride come down the aisle! This is always a sweet moment whether or not a couple chooses to do a first look.

I really don’t think there is another ceremony space in Columbus that is more beautiful than the Rotunda at the Ohio Statehouse! Simply stunning!

Some very important words shared for the bride and groom from their niece!

I thought it was so sweet and special that the bride’s dad officiated the ceremony and married them!

Making it official! These “just married” expressions on their faces are priceless. I love capturing those first few moments together after the bride and groom exit their ceremony. There are just so many sweet little gestures and expressions.

The reception space in the Atrium was bright, elegant and a perfect ode to spring. The flowers and decor were done by Bloomtastic in Upper Arlington.

Here they come to see their reception space for the first time! A year of planning coming together – it’s quite exciting!

Now THAT is a happy couple! The space really was beautiful and the decor was classic and timeless – well suited for this gorgeous venue.

Time to get the party started – and this was a fun wedding day crew! Reception entrances are always fun to watch, especially when you have a high energy group.

I wish I could remember what was said – but it must have been funny! I love being able to capture genuine expressions and laughter during the toasts and other wedding traditions.

I love this shot as I think it just captures the vibe of the day so well and years from now when they look back on it, they will be able to see so many of the people that were there, the beautiful space and this sweet moment together – all in one photo!

The parent dances (and the father-daughter in particular) get me every time. These two have a very special relationship too and it’s very easy to see. What a great day this was for everyone!