Katie Stoops Wedding Photography

So, a few months ago I received an email from PDN (Photo District News) saying that someone (STILL have no idea who) nominated me to apply for the Rising Stars competition. I remember reading it over & over & over because I simply couldn’t believe it. With the help of some critical eyes, I submitted a brief portfolio to them. Then, a month ago….a month ago (it’s been torturous to not tell) I found out that I had actually been chosen. I still can’t believe it. Honestly. To the person that nominated me…I will FOREVER be thankful.

Back in college I would read PDN (and still do!) admiring all of their featured photographers. To be included in this incredibly special collection of photographers seemed so far off but I had hoped that, one day, it would happen. Thank you to everyone who has been so supportive of my work-you’re like family to me.

xoxoKatie

shot with fuji 400h

I am SOOO excited that Zach & Clay’s wedding is the Monday feature on Snippet & Ink today!!!

Julia & Jon are happiness. They embody the life of life and I’m so happy to share their wedding with you.

Church: First Unitarian Church

Reception Venue: The George Peabody Library

Shoes: Enzo Angiolini

Planner: Hannah Marsh of Piccadilly Event Planning: 202. 489.1203

The flowers in Julia’s hair and the style of her hair is divine.

I loved when one of Julia’s bridesmaids was just looking at the gorgeous dress in awe.

This was such a great moment when Jon pinned on his father’s boutonniere .

Julia’s mom is a graphic designer who designed the invitations and save-the-dates. In keeping with the theme of having their reception at the Peabody Library, they chose to use library checkout cards for their save-the-dates which were marked with important dates in their relationship.

Julia had these clutches made for each bridesmaid:

Julia & Jon’s first look!

The guests arrived via big yellow school buses! So fun & different!

Look how beautiful the interior is…I love the coffered ceiling.

Look at this truly spectacular venue!

Julia & her mom designed the centerpieces. They covered votive holders with enlarged dictionary pages, while the florals were held in card catalogue file holders.

When the guests were invited into the reception, there were SO many “ooos and awes” from how incredible the space looked. From looking on the outside of the Library, you would never know it looks the way it does.

There’s nothing better than a rolling dance party!

Since they knew that most of their guests would probably prefer an alternate desert, they opted for a small wedding cake and an amazing assortment of mini desserts.

And they lived happily ever after!

I will be posting their incredible Baltimore wedding on Monday. I hope everyone has a nice relaxing weekend!

To say this was a highlight of my 2010 is an understatement. It’s pretty safe to say this was a highlight in my entire career…a highlight in my life. Obviously, I photograph weddings all of the time. It’s an amazing job…not even a job…a joy to be a part of so many peoples’ wedding days. However, to be a part of a day when two people who, because of their sexuality, were denied to be joined in such a special bond left me with tears. There was a point in their commitment ceremony (they were legally wed in DC) when I actually stopped photographing and soaked it in. Tears flooded my eyes. Every guest glowed with excitement and contentment to be part of Z & C’s moment.

I understand there are people who do not agree with gay marriage. Even though I don’t *get* that way of thinking, every single person is entitled to their opinion. However, just think…there is SO much hate & pain in this vast world…why would we deny people the chance to have love in their life? It doesn’t matter your race, sex, or age…each one of us deserves to be loved and who is anyone to say someone else doesn’t deserve it?

Thank you so much for taking the time to view these:)

xoxoKatie

Venue: The barn at the Agricultural History Farm Park in Montgomery County, MD

Florals: Zach’s sweet mom

Food: Since Zach & Clay are the masterminds behind the super popular foodie blog, The Bitten Word, food was a very important feature to their cocktail style reception. They had Oliver Friendly from Eat & Smile Foods who arranged an incredible menu.

Pies: Dangerously Delicious Pies

Anna shares some tidbits for you, “Kent Manor Inn was great and I would highly recommend this venue; beautiful setting, wonderful wedding site coordinator, great staff as a whole who were extremely knowledgeable and accommodating, and most importantly fantastic food!

As far as wedding planning - just have fun! I think lots of brides - including myself - get wrapped up in trying to make sure that everything is just perfect when it really is all about coming together with family and friends and celebrating (believe me no one will be commenting on the lack of monogrammed napkins or placement of your votive candles after your wedding!). Andy and I felt extremely fortunate to have so many of our friends and family take part in our special day and appreciated the moments we enjoyed with each of them. ”

Love these bridesmaid gifts from Anna! Who doesn’t want a Coach clutch?

A cute flower for the flower girl’s hair-adorable and a bridesmaid’s updo…absolutely gorgeous.