Megan + Scott’s Fall Indianapolis wedding at the Benton House in Irvington and Reception at Mill Top by Stacy Able Photography
This darling wedding was the first I photographed after a Chrisman workshop. I was beyond excited to use several new techniques. Fortunately, Megan and Scott couldn’t have been more patient with my excitement and ideas. I adore these two and couldn’t be more thankful to have had the opportunity to photograph them and family. Drinks on me next time you are in Indianapolis please?
Bride + Groom Q + A:
Scott actually chose the date for the wedding because it was “easy to remember” (smart man, right?). I gave him a season and said I wanted some fall colors, and he went with 10/10. We were really looking to keep this wedding to a budget but wanted to show our personalities through all of the decor and venue choices. I found the Benton House while searching online, and I decided to go check it out. It was perfect! It had so much charm, was in a gorgeous location, and it gave me that quirky and unique feeling I was after. Scott had his heart set on a dimly lit reception venue reminiscent of an old speakeasy. He wanted the industrial exposed brick, wood, and piping to give that vintage-y but warm feeling of a good party. Unfortunately he had to work when I went to look at Mill Top, but the second I walked in, I knew this is exactly what he’d want for a reception venue.
The decor really reflected my love for all things dark, quirky, and romantic mixed with Scott’s speakeasy vibe. Throw in a little bit of my love for Tim Burton, and you get my flowers, designed by the amazing Becky Ruby-Wojtowicz at Lilly Lane! My mom and aunt did all of the rest of the decor, from the wine cork name cards to the swag on the arch at the ceremony. I think everything turned out better than I could ever dream it would! It was the most beautiful ceremony (and amazing weather!) and the perfect candlelit reception.
Scott is normally the one who gets stressed or anxious in situations, but on our wedding day, roles were completely reversed. He was so cool and calm about it all, which was really comforting to see! I, on the other hand, was a nervous wreck. I wasn’t so much worried about things going as planned or falling while walking down the aisle, rather I have never had a bigger and more important moment in my life, and I’m not sure my body and mind was prepared to handle all of the intense emotions. I made it through, and by the end of the night I was joining Scott in a little impromptu karaoke session. The day couldn’t have gone more perfectly, nerves and all!
By far, my favorite moment of the whole day was our first dance. Since we had an outdoor ceremony, which led straight into a receiving line, Scott and I didn’t have any time to take in “that moment” alone. Though everyone was staring at us while we danced, it felt like we were the only people in the room. It was such an intimate moment for us, and that was the second I was finally able to calm my nerves.
I think the funniest moment would have to have been my dad’s speech. I mean, c’mon, when your dad starts telling the entire room about how many boyfriends you had, the only thing you can do is laugh! Top it off with him discussing how Scott strikingly resembles Jafar from Alladin, followed by the entire room giving an approving round of applause, and that moment will definitely go down in history!
Our first dance was to Free by Zac Brown Band. One of our first weekend getaways together was to Dale Hollow lake, and we played that song on repeat. It’s a beautiful song with such true lyrics, and it fits our life so perfectly.
Vendor List: Dress designer: Mori Lee purchased at Bridal and Formal in the Reading Bridal District near Cincinnati, Florals: Lilly Lane in Broadripple, Shoes: Betsey Johnson, Rings: Karaman Jewelers in Mason, OH, Venue(s): The Benton House in Irvington, Indianapolis and Mill Top in Noblesville, IN, Food: MBP Distinctive Catering, Invitations: Leah Huffman (Matron of Honor), Bridesmaid Dresses: Christina Wu Occasions, Limo: Next Episode Limousine, Hair: Julie Mennel Salon Lofts in Indianapolis, Wedding Cake: Scott’s Grandma, Mom, and Aunt, Men’s Suits: Egara from Men’s Wearhouse, Photography: Stacy Able Photography