Kristen and Steve were married at the Gathering Place at Darlington Lake. It is a beautiful venue north of Pittsburgh overlooking the lake. This couple is so much in love, and this wedding has been a long time coming. You could just see it throughout the entire day. I don't always cry at weddings, but I definitely had tears in my eyes for this one (when the groom cries, I always lose it!).
While they didn't see each other before the ceremony, they had a letter exchange and were able to talk to each other. It is always an emotional moment. After the ceremony, their friends and family celebrated in style, with some epic dance moves. Check it out!
Vendors:
- Venue: The Gathering Place at Darlington Lake
- DJ, Officiant, Guitarist, Videographer: Joel Lindsey Entertainment
- Cake: Lincoln Bakery
- Florals: Fred Dietz Floral & DIY
- Hair & Makeup: Capristo Salon & Wellness Spa
- Dress: The Exquisite Bride
- Suits: Top Hat Tuxedo
- Caterer: Medure's Catering
- Photographer: Kathryn Hyslop Photography
The Wedding Advice I’d Give You After Photographing Weddings for 13+ Years
After photographing weddings for more than a decade, I have seen a LOT.
Perfectly planned timelines. Timelines that immediately went off the rails. 90-degree ceremonies. Snow. Missing boutonnieres. Champagne explosions. Veils with minds of their own. Flower kids who absolutely refused to participate.
And some really, really incredible wedding days.
So if you're planning a wedding in Pittsburgh, here's the advice I wish I could give every couple before their wedding day:
First Look or No First Look?
First looks are one of those wedding decisions the internet has somehow turned into a VERY BIG DEAL.
So, should you do one?
My deeply unsatisfying photographer answer is:
It depends.
I'm not going to tell every couple they need a first look because it's "better for photos."
Your wedding isn't a photoshoot, remember?
But after photographing weddings for years, there are definitely situations where I think a first look makes the day significantly easier.


How to Actually Get Candid Wedding Photos (Without Pretending Your Photographer Isn’t There)
Tips for real weddings.