You would think that those of us who live in northeastern Florida would not be caught off-guard by a chilly day in our area. After all, we are in NORTH Florida :). But, December 22, 2012, was quite a chilly day in our area. To those of you who are used to anything below, say 60 degrees, you will get a chuckle out of this. However, there was nice breeze blowing around our cold (to us) 55 degree temperature making it feel much colder, not only to this photographer but to all parties involved. In fact, the Ritz Carlton had already set up this wedding indoors, due to those brisk conditions. Note: I said, ‘had’ set up.

When Katrin Bell (my daughter and 2nd shooter- a phenomenal one) and I arrived to photograph the bride, I was ready for anything. That is how I go to weddings–ready for anything. I took my ‘norm’ shots around her room- detail shots, candid, capturing each moment, some gorgeous bridal portraits, ‘in the moment’ bridal images and images of the others who were very near and dear to her as each arrived in her room.

While taking these images, the bride commented that the day had turned quite beautiful and warmer, with its gorgeous sunshine and blue skies. She wistfully commented that she wished the ceremony was outside. She really wanted it there. (I found out it had been set up inside due to the earlier, chillier temps). So, seeing her disappointment, I made a phone call to the front desk and ultimately to the ‘powers that be’- the destination services department, great people I have talked to on many occasions. I told them the situation and that the bride really wanted her ceremony on the lawn. Do you know what they said? They said, YES! You see, this is the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, and I knew they would pull through, because that is what they do. I made the phone call at 3:30 for the 4:00 ceremony. Not only did they get the ceremony location ready, they set up in style, with a gorgeous arbor, graced with beautiful flowers, placed just perfectly on the South lawn of the Ritz. Plenty of blue sky, green grass, and ocean view abounded, and, to make a long story short, this was one happy bride and groom.

So, the rest of us were cold for just a few minutes. No one complained, not even the cute nieces and nephews (who, by the way were adorable AND so very well behaved). Why would they? It was the right thing to do. Hats off to the Ritz for making this dream come true for this bride and groom! The images I am sharing, below, in no particular order are just a portion of the images captured on this very special day (doubly special, because it happens to be my wedding anniversary, too). Katrin and I were so blessed to be a part and appreciate being called on for this most elegant day. Blessings… 

FYI: I am offering a basic digital photography workshop this Saturday, January 26, 2013,  from 10:00 – 4:00. If you are interested, please contact me at pambellphoto@comcast.net, for more information. It is going to be fun, and a great time.