ALISON MAE

The Journal

A Summer Wedding at The Willows on Westfield

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Wedding

I’m Alison. Photographer behind Alison Mae.
Usually behind the camera. Occasionally not.

Erika and Dylan

From the second I met Erika and Dylan, I instantly adored them! They are so kind and warm, the kind of people you just want to be around. As the conversation went on, we discovered many shared interests, including our big love for dogs and I knew that these were my people! This theory was absolutely confirmed during their engagement session. Their summer wedding at The Willows on Westfield was amazing, but this couple is even better!

Getting Ready

After finishing up with hair and makeup at Salon 01 in Carmel, Erika and her lovely ladies headed to the Willows to put on her dress. The Willows recently renovated their bridal and groom prep areas for the ballroom part of the venue. I was so in love with all of the beautiful natural light that poured into the space! It made photographing this part of the day a dream!

Erika and Dylan both had some wonderful details that helped tell the story of their day. Some of my favorites? The “I Do” on the back of Erika’s heels and their matching perfume and cologne. What a fun touch!

The First Look

Erika and Dylan opted to share a first look prior to their ceremony. I loved this because it allowed them both to relax and calm their nerves before walking down the aisle. If you are curious about a first look but are worried that it won’t be as significant of a reaction, just look at how beautiful Dylan’s reaction was as he saw his beautiful bride for the first time!

Bridal Portraits

Following their first look, we took a few minutes to capture some bridal portraits as well as photos of the happy couple and the bridal party. Sharing a first look before the ceremony allowed Erika and Dylan to share this special time together and spend more time with their friends through out the day. Plus, it gave us more time for pretty photos, which I will never complain about!

The Ceremony

Erika and Dylan’s wedding ceremony set up was positively stunning! Amanda with Amanda Bradford Floral Design did a wonderful job! I loved the way the romantic flowers accented the ceremony space. It was such a lovely space for Erika and Dylan to say I do!

The Reception

Following some family photos, Erika and Dylan joined their guests for dinner. The tasteful pops of blue continued through out the ballroom. One of my favorite reception details was their cake!

Sunset Portraits

Erika and Dylan snuck away following dinner for a few sunset portraits! I love how Erika and Dylan always find ways to laugh with one another. Their joy is contagious! We had the best time exploring and laughing with them during this special part of their wedding day!

Party On!

Dylan and Erika had one of the most fun dance floors I have ever seen! Songs from Fall Out Boy and Celine Dion filled the ballroom and everyone was ready to dance. And when guests needed a break from dancing, they enjoyed watching the sunset from the deck right outside. What a perfect evening! Congratulations Erika and Dylan!

Summer Wedding at The Willows on Westfield

Venue: The Willows

Floral – Amanda Bradford Floral Design

Cake –  Classic Cakes

Catering – The Willows

DJ-  Higher Love Entertainment

Officiant – Any Style Wedding Officiant

Hair:  Salon 01

Makeup: Salon 01

Videography: Weddings by Weddle

Photography – Alison Mae Photography

Dress – Sophia’s Bridal (Southport)

Suit – Louie’s Tux

Jewelry – Shane Company

Second Photographer – Rachel Grelle (AMAZING!)

I’m Alison. Photographer behind Alison Mae.
Usually behind the camera. Occasionally not.

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We’re Alison and Zach, a husband and wife photography team who care deeply about how a wedding day feels. Alison brings calm guidance and a steady eye, while Zach is always close by, catching the moments that might otherwise slip past. Together, we show up ready to support you through the big emotions and the quiet ones, creating photographs that feel honest, natural, and beautifully real.

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