Annie + Jake’s Vow Renewal Barn Wedding at The Orchards at Rocking Horse Farm
Annie and Jake’s vow renewal at The Orchards at Rocking Horse Farm was a long time in the making. They originally planned this as a barn wedding, but then found out Jake was about to be deployed. In response, they quickly threw together an intimate pre-deployment wedding, and pushed this one back a year, making it a vow renewal instead. After all the excitement and shuffling of plans, I was just happy this day finally arrived!
Even though we took their engagement photos at The Orchards, it was my first time there as a wedding photographer, and I love the feeling of heading into a venue for the first time! I arrived extra early so I could be as prepared as possible, then dove into creating a flat lay of Annie’s details. She planned to surprise Jake with a reception outfit that included a white sheath dress and blue Converse high-tops. I’ve been loving this trend of reception sneakers lately, and always take the opportunity to photograph them alongside the heels.
Annie and Jake got ready separately, then we went straight into photos with the wedding party, which was such a fun group! After a few photos of Annie and Jake alone, we grabbed some family pictures before guests started arriving for the ceremony. I could tell everyone there was just so happy to be there and excited to witness these two in love. The processional was pretty traditional, until the end where Annie and Jake walked out of the barn together and down the aisle, arm-in-arm. It was so beautiful! Their outdoor ceremony was short and sweet. They read vows to each other, Annie’s dad said a few words, and before you knew it, it was over and time for the cocktail hour.
The star of the show was a miniature donkey carrying beer and drinks for the guests. What a fun touch for a barn wedding! Guests entered the reception and were greeted by a lovely DIY seating chart, featuring a piece of Annie’s grandmother’s garden fence and tables named after flower seeds. It was such a meaningful and special way to honor her grandmother!
Annie and Jake shared a first dance, followed by parent dances and toasts. After that, the three of us ran around to each table so Annie and Jake could have a photo with all of their guests. It’s always a blast for me trying to get all the table photos done before the end of the song! After dinner, we ventured out for some more photos around the property as the moon was beginning to rise. I’ll always recommend that my couples take a few minutes to leave the party and hang out with their spouse on the evening of their wedding. They end up being some of the best photos!
We made it back into the reception and everyone danced the night away. Annie and Jake cut the Spiderman-themed Groom’s cake, then took a few fun pictures inside the food truck. This was the best day! It’s been such a pleasure working alongside you for all of these milestones!
