“All White” At Magnolia Estate
Brian and Charlé's all-white themed wedding was a day to remember, held at the stunning Magnolia Estate in Miamisburg, Ohio. It was a celebration that took place just a day after Ohio had experienced the tail-end effects of Hurricane Helene. While many weddings across the state faced delays and interruptions due to power outages and damage, Magnolia Estate remained untouched, allowing the couple's plans to go on smoothly without a hitch.
The ceremony was the epitome of elegance and simplicity. Charlé's bridal bouquet, made up of long tulips, perfectly reflected this minimal yet sophisticated style. The choice of flowers was intentional, just like many other details that defined this special day. In fact, intentionality was a central theme for Brian and Charlé, not just for their wedding, but in how they approached their relationship and lives. Friends and family, particularly those within the couple's inner circle, frequently mentioned the couple’s focus on moving with purpose and clarity. This mindset infused the day with meaning and purpose, creating an atmosphere that was both intimate and deeply personal.
The entire celebration was filled with laughter, joy, and a sense of calm. There were no rushed moments, no forced formality—just genuine connection and celebration. Guests enjoyed the relaxed, chill vibes, a true reflection of the bride and groom’s personalities. From the ceremony to the reception, everything flowed with a peaceful rhythm that made it clear this couple was focused on savoring every moment.
Thankful for all who helped bring Brian and Charlé's vision to life.
Photographer: Sheldon James Photography
Venue: Magnolia Estate
Cake Company: Love Cakes by Dorothy Lane Market
DJ: 1Derfulmusick
Videographer: CookFilms
Mobile Bartending Services: Champagne Sisters
Wedding Coordinator: Tiara Nicole Events
Hello Fall: Your Wedding is a year away!
Welcoming Fall: Tips for 2025 Brides from Your Wedding Photographer
As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in, I'm reminded of why fall is one of my favorite seasons for weddings. The vibrant colors, cozy atmosphere, and soft, golden light make for absolutely stunning photographs. If you're planning a fall wedding in 2025, here are a few tips to help you make the most of this beautiful season.
1. Embrace the Fall Color Palette
A flat lay photo featuring bride and grooms wedding band
Photographer : Sheldon James Photography
Venue: The Barn At Wolf Creek
Fall offers a rich tapestry of colors—think deep reds, burnt oranges, golden yellows, and earthy greens. When choosing your floral arrangements, decor, and even your bridal party attire, consider incorporating these seasonal hues. They not only look incredible in person but also translate beautifully in photos, adding warmth and depth to every shot.
2. Book Your Vendors Early
Cutting of the Cake with Personalized Cake Topper
Photographer: Sheldon James Photography
Venue: The Warehouse, Troy Ohio
Cake Designer: The Cakery
Fall is an increasingly popular season for weddings, and 2025 will be no exception. With high demand, Especially in the months of September and October, it's crucial to book your key vendors—venue, photographer, florist, and caterer—as early as possible. Many vendors fill their calendars quickly for peak fall dates, so securing your dream team early ensures you won't miss out.
3. Plan for the Weather
Photographer: Sheldon James Photography
Venue: The Barn
Autumn weather can be unpredictable, ranging from warm and sunny to cool and rainy. Have a backup plan for outdoor elements of your day, such as a tent or an indoor alternative, to keep your guests comfortable. Additionally, consider providing cozy touches like blankets or a hot beverage station to enhance the seasonal vibe and keep everyone warm.
4. Golden Hour is Your Best Friend
One of the most magical aspects of fall is the golden hour—the hour before sunset when the light is soft and golden. This time of day is perfect for capturing breathtaking portraits. When planning your timeline, try to schedule some time during golden hour for couple photos. The natural light will add a romantic glow to your images, making them even more special.
5. Consider Seasonal Touches
Photographer : Sheldon James Photography
Incorporate seasonal elements into your wedding to create a truly autumnal experience. Think pumpkin accents, spiced cocktails, or a menu featuring fall flavors like butternut squash or apple pie. These little touches will not only enhance the seasonal feel but also make your wedding unique and memorable.
6. Don't Forget About the Early Sunset
As we move deeper into fall, the days get shorter, and the sun sets earlier. Be mindful of this when planning your schedule, especially if you're hoping to capture outdoor photos. Starting your ceremony earlier in the day allows for plenty of natural light and ensures you get those dreamy outdoor shots before the sun dips below the horizon.
7. Trust Your Vendors
Bride and Groom with Wedding Party and Guest
Photographer: Sheldon James Photography
Videographer: LosProductions
Venue: The Steam Plant
Wedding Planner: Angela's Premier Event Designs
Finally, trust the professionals you've hired to help bring your vision to life. Vendors like your photographer, florist, and planner have extensive experience with fall weddings and can offer valuable advice on how to navigate the unique aspects of the season. Lean on their expertise to ensure your day is as flawless and stress-free as possible.
Fall weddings are truly magical, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cozy charm. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable autumn celebration. I can't wait to capture the beauty of your big day in 2025!
A Special Wedding Ceremony With The Estate at Sunset Farm
In August, I had the pleasure of capturing a beautiful wedding at The Estate at Sunset Farm in Ohio—a venue that’s as enchanting as its name suggests. Nestled in the heart of Ohio’s countryside, this historic estate offers the perfect blend of timeless elegance and rustic charm, making it an unforgettable setting for any wedding.
Bridal Party Standing on Venue Front Steps
The venue, originally built in the early 1900s, has been lovingly restored to preserve its rich history while providing modern amenities. The sprawling grounds, with their mature trees and lush gardens, create a serene and romantic atmosphere that makes every moment feel like a scene from a classic love story.
For this wedding, the couple’s attention to detail was impeccable. From the intricately designed invitations to the personalized place settings, every element reflected their unique style and love story. One of my favorite shots from the day was of the bride’s bouquet— a stunning arrangement of blush roses and wildflowers that perfectly complemented the natural beauty of the venue. Another standout was the beautifully adorned dessert table, where the cake was surrounded by a variety of sweet treats, each more delightful than the last.
Playa Blanca roses mixed with Perennial Blue and lilac colors
As the sun began to set, the estate lived up to its name, casting a warm, golden glow over the celebration. The couple shared their first dance under a canopy of twinkling lights, with the setting sun as their backdrop—a moment that felt almost surreal in its perfection.
Shooting at The Estate at Sunset Farm was a dream come true, and I’m so grateful to have been a part of this couple’s special day. Their wedding was a beautiful reflection of their love, and I’m honored to have captured these memories for them to cherish forever.
From college sweethearts to “I Do’s”
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2022 • CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2022 • CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL
It’s always a special time when two love birds enter into a college world with the plans to earn a four year degree and come out with a wedding ring and the perfect start to life with their forever person.
a fun filled moment of the bride and groom before their first dance
Logan and Lawrence first met in the fall of 2012 on the campus of Tiffin University. It started with the mere exchange of pleasantries and blossomed into an unbreakable bond. Like many before them, Logan and Lawrence’s relationship started as friends who enjoyed each other’s company. They enjoyed lunch in the café between classes and game nights with friends that turned into late night conversations about dreams and aspirations. In May of 2015, Logan and Lawrence decided to take the next step in their relationship and make it official. In January of 2018 they relocated to Joliet, Illinois where they reside today with their four fur children.
a memorable walk though the hotel hallway
First dance from the newlyweds
Photographer- Sheldon James | @Fabio_buttons
DJ: Kelvon Fluellen
Day of Coordination - Madra Ginn- Jones
Area Event Manger - Joan Gavin (Missy)
Ice Sculpture: Nate Johnson
Caricatures Artist: Adam Belmares
Marquette Letters - Gina Schaffer
Thrown loveseat: Brandy Dominguez
Wedding planning and wedding day checklist
A checklist to help brides confirm that they have each of the much needed belongings on wedding day
Though you have every thought and detail in your brain as to how your wedding will flow, its important to have some organization to go along with it!
A wedding on a rainy day
Rain on your wedding day is good luck because it signifies that your marriage will last.
As you know, a knot that becomes wet is extremely hard to untie – therefore, when you “tie the knot” on a rainy day, your marriage is supposedly just as hard to unravel! We can thank Hindu traditions for this belief.
Jim and Jordan Coyne are the newlyweds behind Cliffside Acres.
People often ask them how and why we built a wedding venue, and to tell you the truth, it was never about weddings.
For them , it has always been about loving and serving ALL people and planting deep roots in our community.
They took an already beautiful property that we inherited from Jordan’s grandmother and a team of talented people (family, friends, neighbors & strangers) and built Cliffside Acres into what it is today: a place where our couples and their loved-ones celebrate their very best days.
I was booked to shoot Emily and Austin’s wedding in June of 2020. After speaking with the Coyne’s I discovered that I was one of the very first to have had the opportunity to shoot a wedding there. This venue is a DREAM!
Frequently asked questions when brides book with Cliffside Acres: Q: WHAT IS THE RENTAL FEE FOR CLIFFSIDE ACRES AND WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE?
A: Please click here to see our pricing and a list of what is included.
Q: WHICH DATES ARE AVAILABLE?
A: Click here to view our 2022 & 2023 availability. If you would like to book a 2024 date, please reach out to us directly at info@barnatcliffsideacres.com.
Q: WHAT IS THE BUILDING CAPACITY?
A: We have a maximum capacity of 200 guests, including the bridal party.
Q: WHAT DO YOU REQUIRE TO BOOK A DATE?
A: In order to book your date, we require a 50% first payment.
Q: DO I NEED TO SCHEDULE A TOUR?
A: We kindly request that all tours are by appointment only. You can request a tour through our scheduling service here.
Q: HOW DO I RESERVE A DATE?
A: Schedule a tour or send an email to
info@barnatcliffsideacres.com!
Q: DO WE HAVE TO UTILIZE YOUR CATERERS AND BAR SERVICE?
A: Yes, we offer an extensive list of fully-vetted catering and
bartending services, ranging in price, for you to select from
Q: ARE THERE OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS NEARBY?
A: The Springfield Courtyard Marriott is just 2 miles away and
The Mills Park Hotel in Yellow Springs is only 7 miles away. Both are
fantastic options within walking
distance of restaurants and breweries.
Q: DOES THE RENTAL FEE INCLUDE A TIME TO REHEARSE?
A: Yes, we do all of our rehearsals on Thursday evenings for the
weekend ahead. Our Friday couples have from 5-6 p.m., Saturday
couples have from 6-7 p.m., & Sunday couples have from 7-8 p.m.
For more information and to book a tour, Visit https://barnatcliffsideacres.com/
Barn at Cliffside Acres/ Wedding venue/ Event Venue
1751 Rebert Pike
Springfield Ohio 45506
Sheldon James Photography / Dayton Ohio Photographer/ Ohio wedding photographer
Tips when you are picking your wedding florist in Dayton Ohio
Macro/ up close shot of bouquet Dayton Ohio Wedding
Wedding flowers are really the heart of your celebration and can create the vibe you're going for: romantic, modern, whimsical, rustic—the list goes on and on. Hiring a florist is an important part of the wedding planning process, but there are a few things you'll need to do before signing a contract with your flower pro. Here's a step-by-step guide to finding the perfect florist for your wedding day.
When Should You Hire a Florist for Your Wedding?
We recommend starting to research wedding florists about 11 months before your big day, with the goal to sign a contract between 9 and 10 months pre-wedding. Basically, as soon as you've booked your venue and have officially set a date, you can start researching other vendors, including your florist. Given the current wedding boom, vendors are booking up faster than ever (especially if you're marrying during peak wedding season) which in Dayton Ohio peak season is considered June to November, so the earlier you can secure a florist, the better!
Couples Portrait (Stone Valley Meadows) 4914 Robinson Vail Rd Franklin Ohio 45005
1. Establish Your Flower Style
Some florists specialize in tall, lush, ornate centerpieces, while others are better at modern, minimalist arrangements. Find photos of bouquets, boutonnieres and centerpieces you like to figure out your style, and choose a wedding color palette. And familiarize yourself with some of the most common floral terms and types of flowers and greenery, so you'll be able to talk shop with your florist.
2. Determine Your Floral Needs
Do you want someone who'll not only make your arrangements but also help design the look of your reception tables and ceremony aisle? A floral designer is probably more your speed. Already have a wedding planner or an eye for design? Then a regular florist will likely do the trick. Figure out which is the best fit—this will allow you to narrow your search and help determine your budget.
3. Create Your Floral Budget
Décor and flowers should amount to about 10 percent of your overall wedding budget. According to The Knot Real Wedding Study, the average couple spent $2,300 on floral decor—but that number varies widely depending on your wedding location, guest count and other details. If you love flowers and want a grand floral arrangements, or are dead-set on peonies in November, plan to bump up this number. And account for extras like setup and breakdown charges, taxes and tips. It's essential you have a number in mind when you start meeting with wedding florists.
4. Get Recommendations
As with all wedding pros, you want a florist who's reliable, capable and within your price range. You also should find someone who is open to your ideas and whose taste you respect. One of the best ways to find your florist is by word of mouth—ask for recommendations from newlyweds you know and read online reviews on The Knot Marketplace. You can also check out real wedding photos from events that took place in your wedding location, find images of floral arrangements you like and see who created them. If you're working with a wedding planner or a venue coordinator, they should have some suggestions of local florists.
5. Schedule an Interview
You should hire someone you trust to make the right floral decisions—someone who instinctively knows what will look good together. Set up appointments with your "short list" of florists so you can connect in person and view a portfolio of their work. It's a good idea to come with a list of questions, and have the following information ready:
Your wedding date
An estimated guest count, including number of wedding party members
Your wedding venue
Color scheme and flower ideas
A list of your other booked wedding vendors
Landoll’s Mohecian Castle (561 Township Road 3352 Loudonville OH 44842 (Couples Portrait)
6: Show Don’t tell
Are you a true minimalist? Or are you looking to do an über-romantic, glamorous wedding? Your florist isn't a mind reader and images are more telling than words. Bring your Pinterest board, a bridesmaid dress fabric swatch and a photograph of your wedding dress or attire to your interviews. Share your vision and discuss your budget.
7: Consider the proposal:
Determine your top picks and have a second interview or follow-up discussion to hash out details like exact flowers, cost of materials and rentals, and setup and breakdown costs. Have each florist put together a detailed proposal for your wedding floral design based on what you've told them about your vision and budget. If you've spoken about many different ideas, ask them to prepare a "high" best-case scenario and "low" bare-minimum proposal. You can always mix and create a mid-range package—perhaps you spend more on the centerpieces and pare down the bridesmaid bouquets.
8: Pick a winner :
Review your proposals and determine the best match. If you have concerns about any costs or elements of the proposal, talk about them with your chosen florist now. When you're completely satisfied with the proposal, your wedding florist will turn it into a formal contract.
Jorgensen Farms (5851 East Walnut Street Westerville Oh 43081) Bride with her father
Tips for booking your Ohio wedding photographer
Hey Ohio brides! I’m the photographer at Sheldon James Photography and I want to spread some awareness about how you should be vetting photographers to hire for your wedding day. This list can mean the difference between professional, reliable coverage for your wedding vs being ghosted/ losing your most important images. Since Covid, the photography community has seen its share of scammers and I want to help you avoid that at all cost! We are also the ones spending the most time with you on this day (sometimes more than your bridal party. Be sure to meet up with them in person during a consult to see if you click!
Ask your prospective photographer these questions
• Is your business registered with the state? (Look their business name up on the Ohio sec. State business search. Red flag if it doesn’t show up.) Moreover any certificates, awards, and BBB accreditation, this is how all business register with the state of Ohio for tax and good lawful standing.
•do you offer a complimentary 30 minute engagement session with your wedding packages? ( this really helps you get acquainted with your photographer! I’m so glad I chose to offer this to my clients. It really helps break the ice)
•Do you have a contract?
•Does your contract cover my wedding with another photographer if you end up not being able to attend and are you the main photographer that represents your business? There are some companies that have many photographers under one umbrella so what in turn happens is, you book a photography company and the person you initially spoke with is not the photographer who shows up to shoot your wedding on your wedding day
•if I want to add on time to my package, how much does an extra hour cost?
•what are your travel fees? All weddings booked with us do not require travel fees unless there is 1+ hour of travel time.
•do I receive all finalized (based on their discretion) digital images with each package?
•what is your payment method? (Invoicing service should be an option)
•what is your contractual turn around time vs your actual turn around time
•how many weddings have you done before
•are you experienced in flash photography
•does your contract require a seat at a table and a plate of food?( ALWAYS feed your vendors especially your photogs. We run around more than anyone else! )
•be sure they offer in person consults for weddings
•a second photographer isn’t as important a many think it is, it just makes the photographers job a bit easier. If they offer a second shooter, that means they will be trusting them with specific moments to capture while they’re capturing something else, so, be sure to ask how experienced that photographer is. If they’re trusted with a special moment and they don’t understand how their camera/flash works you might have just lost that moment forever. If they DONT offer a second shooter that is their professional decision and only effects the photographer.
•always ask to see full galleries of past weddings so you can see their work in all light conditions
•how the images are delivered (digital files on an online gallery is the norm, most offer prints and album’s for extra costs!)
•ask how many pictures per hour they average. (50-100 per hour is generally what you’ll find!)
Dayton Ohio wedding photographer Sheldon James photography
Happy Halloween 🧛
Happy Halloween from @Jordayrae97. She is a multi- published model in who shoots primarily in Ohio. Her sessions are often about women empowerment and creates new work with Cincinnati, Dayton, and Columbus photographers. Jordan works often in studio, and on location. This vampire project was inspired by the spooky holiday!
Follow her on instagram @jordyrae97
Tiktok: @urfave_fitmom
Canyon Run Ranch
Canyon Run Ranch, near Troy Ohio
“Experience the romance of the woods” This venue is Earth-friendly, sustainable, Wild and Handcrafted beauty
Champaign toast from the bride and her bridesmaids
Canyon Run Ranch Ohio’s Outdoor wooded wedding venue and historic barn is Quietly nestled in the heart of the Stillwater River Valley near Troy, Ohio, Canyon Run Ranch is a sustainable outdoor destination wedding venue for those who value the natural beauty of Ohio’s wooded hills and sparkling waterways.
Outdoor lovers experience magical weddings in the shady forest on the ridge, get photos beside the creek above the waterfalls, and celebrate with their guests in the warmth of the authentic, historic bank barn under 1,000’s of twinkle lights, all powered by solar energy. The perfect setting for your eco-friendly, green wedding celebration.
Secluded and private, Canyon Run Ranch is a gorgeous setting to celebrate a woodland wedding with an authentic American barn, lush botanical gardens, beautiful stone home, pristine woodlands, and acres of native wildflowers.
Wedding ceremony location within the woods 395 N. Rangeline Rd. Pleasant Hill, OH 45359
/ pampas grass/ lost and found event rug rentals /1121 E 2nd St, Dayton, OH 45403
The Higgins
The Higgins
Wedding captured 10/22/2022 @ The GEM by Christopher’s located at 3425 Valley St, Dayton, OH 45424
THE GEM by Christopher's is a full service venue for weddings, receptions, parties, business meetings and much more. Rentals or Turn Key solutions. Amazing food and service from the Christopher's staff. THE GEM, where one call does it all. the layout of each event is unique, most events comfortably serve up to 150 guests for full facility rentals. They are able to divide the space for smaller events with their “Green Room” holding up to 60-75 guests and our “Main Hall” holding up to 100-125 guests. Layout is the key which is why we always encourage a tour and walk-through to envision possible layouts to accommodate your event.
What does the Gem cost? The event budgets have many factors, like season, day of week, time, partial/full facility, and your special needs. They like to keep things simple with a clear minimum rate, which includes many food options from their catering menu and is affordable and easy to reach.
Congratulatory hug to the newlywed
Do they offer Catering Services? Absolutely, that’s their bread and butter. They have been catering for over 25 years and The Gem gives them another location to show off our food. You can explore their catering menu online via their website to see the variety of options available, including dishes for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free guests. Let them know if you had something different or special in mind and their catering chef is happy to try to work with you to make it a reality!
The brides final walk as a fiancé
Alcoholic Beverages ? We have a D5 Liquor License (which includes beer, wine, and spirits) and have many bar service packages available. No outside alcohol is allowed on-site.
Handicap accessible ? Yes, there is dedicated, on-site parking at The Gem with preferred spots available for VIP / Special Guests. And we are proud that our facility is fully handicap accessible, including two wheelchair ramps to enter/exit the facility and ADA-compliant restrooms.
For more information, check them out at https://www.christophers.biz/event-venue