In the heart of Columbus, Ohio, stands the magnificent St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. Known for its grandeur and architectural splendor, this church is a beacon of faith and a popular venue for many weddings. However, on a beautiful spring day, it became the setting for one of the most intimate and heartfelt ceremonies I’ve ever had the privilege to photograph. Makenna and William’s wedding was a true testament to the power of love, with just five cherished guests filling the vast space with warmth and genuine affection.

A Grand Venue for an Intimate Affair

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, with its soaring ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and expansive nave, is designed to accommodate hundreds of guests. Yet, as I arrived to capture Makenna and William’s special day, the sheer scale of the church contrasted beautifully with the intimacy of their gathering. The five guests in attendance made the grand space feel incredibly personal and exclusive.

Starting the Day at the Renaissance Hotel

The day began with a series of beautiful portraits at the Renaissance Hotel in Westerville. The hotel’s elegant ambiance provided a perfect backdrop for capturing the anticipation and joy of Makenna and William as they prepared for their ceremony. The mid afternoon light filtering through the large windows added a touch of magic to the photos, highlighting the couple’s excitement and the deep bond they share.

A Ceremony Filled with Love

Despite the small number of attendees, the love and joy in the church were palpable. Makenna and William’s connection radiated through every glance, touch, and smile. The ceremony, led by Father Olvera, was filled with moments that highlighted the couple’s deep commitment to each other. Their vows echoed through the vast church, making the moment feel even more profound.

As I captured the ceremony, the expressions on the faces of their guests were truly moving. Each person present shared a special bond with the couple, and their happiness was evident in every frame. The intimacy of the event allowed for a unique opportunity to capture candid moments of genuine emotion.

Capturing the Details

Photographing such a small wedding in such a large church presented a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The contrast between the grand architecture and the intimate gathering allowed for creative compositions that highlighted the beauty of both the venue and the couple’s connection. From wide shots that showcased the grandeur of St. Paul’s to close-ups that captured the tender moments between Makenna and William, each photo told a part of their love story.

Celebrating at Home

After the ceremony, we traveled to Makenna and William’s new home for another set of portraits. This was a particularly special part of the day, as it allowed us to capture the couple in the space where they will begin their married life together. Their home, filled with personal touches and a sense of warmth, provided a perfect backdrop for these intimate photos. The comfort and familiarity of the setting brought out genuine smiles and relaxed moments, adding another layer of depth to their wedding story.

Reflecting on the Day

Makenna and William’s wedding at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church reminded me that the size of a wedding doesn’t define its beauty or the depth of emotion felt. Their day was a powerful reminder that love, in its purest form, can fill even the largest of spaces with warmth and joy. It was a privilege to capture their wedding, a day filled with genuine love and heartfelt moments that will be cherished for years to come.

To Makenna and William, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day. Your love story is an inspiration, and I wish you a lifetime of happiness and adventure together.

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If you enjoyed this story and want to see more of my work, feel free to browse through my portfolio https://asteriaphoto.com/blog/ or contact me for your own intimate or grand celebration. Love is beautiful in all its forms, and I am honored to capture it through my lens.

Caroline Stiers is a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer, NYC wedding photographer and destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, emotional imagery with an editorial flare.