Oak Meadow Ranch Wedding with Exotic Animals

bride and groom hug on bridge at Oak Meadow Ranch

I can’t believe Catherine and Matthew are married! I’ve known them since 2019 when we met at anniversary mini sessions I was holding at a local vineyard. We’ve been keeping tabs on each other since (well, Catherine and I have!) and so when they reached out because they were engaged, I was over the moon. From the start, Catherine told me that I was one of the first vendors she booked because it was important to her that I was a part of her celebration. Seriously, so honored! Since then, I’ve captured their engagement portraits and Catherine wanted to do a boudoir session too! I love every moment I Get to spend with these two and I can’t wait for you to see their Oak Meadow Ranch wedding day on the blog today!!

Oak Meadow Ranch Wedding Day

I just adore Catherine and Matthew. They’re so adorable together and every minute of their wedding day was just so special. Although we may have run behind on our schedule, everything came together for the newlyweds. Catherine and Matthew decided to have a first look and I was so overwhelmed watching them together. Matthew’s reaction to their first look is one of my all-time favorites! I know that for Catherine their first look was relaxing. She had told me beforehand that she was feeling the jitters, but everything settled once they were together. During their first look, they even got to meet some of the exotic animals on the property, including David Lee Sloth. Yes, you read that right – a sloth. And even with the first look, he cried when he watched Catherine walk down the aisle, too. They’re definitely emotional people (like me!) and it was so special.

couple meets sloth at Oak Meadow Ranch on wedding day

But the emotions didn’t stop there. Unfortunately, Matthew lost his mom about 10 years ago. To honor her, they decided to have him carry a portrait of her down the aisle to rest in the front row. His father was able to officiate their ceremony, so it was extra meaningful for everyone! Catherine planned to honor both of her grandmothers, too. One grandmother gifted her a black mink jacket specifically for her wedding day, so we made sure to capture some portraits in that. The other one had a special handkerchief for her. I loved seeing all of the personal touches they brought to the day!!

After an emotional first look and ceremony, it was time to party! Oak Ranch Meadow keeps other exotic animals on the property, so their guests were able to meet some of them. It was definitely a highlight of their reception. They enjoyed a private last dance before driving off in the vintage truck from the venue after their sparkler exit. What a perfect end to a lovely day!

Congratulations again to the new Mr. and Mrs.! I’m so happy I could be with you both on your big day and I’m so happy for you both!!