Country Chic Outdoor Summer Wedding at Crimson Lane Venue in Ada, Ohio

September 4, 2020

It was a beautiful day for a country chic outdoor summer wedding at Crimson Lane! Rachael and Matthew’s dream day was kissed with perfect weather, a fitting rustic venue, and an opportunity to celebrate their love with dear family and friends.

I have known Matt after years of watching him “grow up” at church. One day, he started bringing along a kind-hearted young lady he met a college with AMAZING long locks. I had the chance to spend some time with her at several of their family events and even took some professional head shots with her and her HORSE who I affectionately refer to as “Miss America”. (I mean, the horse’s hair is equally as gorgeous.)

I will never forget it. After dinner one evening, I received a message from Rachael with a photo attachment. The photo was of the couple at his family farm next to a huge white sign propped on a farming implement. The sign read “WILL YOU MARRY ME?” Just minutes before, Matt had slid open the barn door and surprised Rachael with a proposal. She NEVER saw it coming (even though she says that Matt isn’t always the best with surprises). ☺️ It took all of 15 minutes before they asked if I would be their photographer for their special day, and I immediately responded with an enthusiastic “YES!”

Fast forward to Friday of Labor Day weekend 2020, and this sweet, fun-loving couple was ready to make things official! Rachael was tucked away in the luxurious bridal suite with her girls, and Matt was hanging in the masculine groom’s suite with his guys. They were anxious … not about the vows, but anxious to be with one another. Matt told me he had no doubts that Rachael was stunning before he got to see her during their First Look before their ceremony. The emotions were sweet and genuine, and their bridal party was ready to celebrate their good friends.

They are lovers of animals, nature, all things rustic … and she REALLY loves sunflowers! (If you follow me, you may remember seeing photos from their engagement session last year among the sunflower field.) 🌻 Naturally, sunflowers were incorporated into their wedding vision, and the rustic setting suited them well. A good time was had by all, and I even had the pleasure of seeing some familiar faces from church – both recent and from years past.

I feel so blessed to have had the chance to get to know Rachael and Matt. The group texts are always entertaining 😉. But truly, I can say that they are GOOD people who would be willing to do anything for anyone else. We all need people like Rachael and Matt in our lives.

I could think of no more deserving couple to wish a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and joy. May God bless your marriage! Love you guys!

Photography: Amy Simkus Photography
Venue: Crimson Lane
Florals: Milk Maid Blooms, Hannah Hettinger
Hair: Danielle Thober at Inspire Salon and Spa
Officiant: Pastor David Nevergall, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Makeup: Jeanne Hooven MUA
Catering: The Milano Cafe
Cake: Ryanna Tietje
DJ/Entertainment: Tiger Entertainment
Bride and Bridesmaids Gowns: Twirl Bride
Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Jos. A. Bank
Invitations: Penelope's Paper Pantry on Etsy
Rings: David Fairclough Fine Jewelers
Bridal jewelry: A Little Bling Boutique on Etsy

Love rustic weddings? See more from Sheyanne and Billy’s Outdoor Wedding at Spiegel Grove, Fremont.

Selecting Amy Simkus as our photographer was honestly one of the best decisions we made for our wedding! She is very easy to work and communicate with. While taking pictures, she is a such a hype woman!!

"

- abigail