Heather Ryan Photography: A Late Summer Wedding at Historic Ashland

I joined Liza and Ian over the Labor Day weekend for their one year anniversary and long anticipated wedding reception at the gorgeous Historic Ashland. I have been speaking with L+I about their wedding plans since December of 2018... which is crazy... Mind blown!!

Like many others, due to Covid, they were forced with the hard decision to postpone their August 2020 wedding day. That didn't stop them from getting married though! They were married on September 5, 2020 at a small micro-wedding at their alma-mater, the University of Delaware, with their immediate families in attendance. Their ceremony was streamed live for additional guests to witness their nuptials, but they discovered it *just didn't feel complete* without celebrating with their extended families and friends. September 5, 2021, on their one year anniversary, they finally got to have the big PARTY and it didn't disappoint.

Liza and her ladies enjoyed the morning getting hair and makeup done and Ian joined in the afternoon dressed and ready to roll. I love how he casually strolled into the bridal area, bowtie already on, and went right up to his wife for a kiss. They laughed at the ease of the day: "we're already married!!"

The impending rain wasn't even an issue because they didn't need to coordinate or move an outdoor ceremony. We took photos around the Historic Ashland grounds, just before the rain hit and we took refuge on the large front deck. Their pup, Maggie, joined for a couple hours of photos and their cocktail hour! She even got to partake in the photo-booth, laying happily across mom and dad's laps for photos. I absolutely love Goldens. They're so easy going and love everyone <3

The moment that Liza and Ian finally got to see their reception space all set up was probably my favorite of the day. It hit Liza hard and fast as she broke into happy tears "I can't believe we're finally here. It's all so amazing." As guests made their way from cocktail hour to their seats for dinner, they watched the ceremony video of Liza and Ian tying the knot at UD. Tears welled up and then the newlyweds made their grand entrance. I loved the flow of the evening and how they were able to seamlessly incorporate their ceremony.

Their evening was filled with happiness everywhere, lots of dancing, The Maggie (their signature cocktail), heartfelt speeches, cupcakes, and a sparkler sendoff! Liza even changed into a second dress for the latter part of the party that was perfectly chic and cooling for the humid evening.

Liza and Ian, I love you guys!! Thank you so much for having me, and allowing me the treat of documenting this part of your story. From your engagement session, to your ceremony at UD, and now your reception and getting to meet your fur-baby Maggie...! I'm so lucky to have been your photographer. HUGS and Happy Anniversary!!!!