If you’ve never been to my blog before, or you’ve only visited once or twice, let me take a minute to introduce myself. My name is Katie, I’m a Delaware wedding photographer and the owner of Creative Image Weddings. I also travel and do all kinds of sessions, but today we’re focusing on weddings – I’m about to share Derek & Keshia’s beautiful wedding from the Waterfall with you.

Before we get to that amazing wedding and the stars of this post, just a few more things about me. I’ve been photographing weddings professionally for about 15 years. In that time I’ve seen it all! I’m thankful for the experience and I know that it serves my clients well. My faith is very important to me (it gives me purpose and joy), I love my family (my hubby, 2 teenage daughters, and a very spoiled MinPin), and I’m a bit of a craft beer snob. Favorite breweries? Dewey, Other Half, The Answer, and Tree House are probably my top four. It’s so hard to pick though!

Why Weddings?

One of the main reasons that I love photographing weddings and that I continue to photograph weddings is that I enjoy telling love stories through my lens SO MUCH. Also, weddings allow for a great deal of creativity as every couple and every wedding is different. I also genuinely love getting to know the couples that I work with. I’ve met so many wonderful and amazing people through my work. Take Derek and Keshia. I’ve really enjoyed meeting them, (they brought the glamour to their engagement session!) working with them, and helping them to feel more comfortable in front of the camera. Keshia introduced me to one of her bridesmaids saying, “this is Katie, she gets down on the ground.” Lol! She said that because she knows I’m not afraid to do what it takes to get the shot that I want. She and Derek were cracking up over me laying in the middle of the Marian Coffin Gardens near then end of their engagement session.

Let’s get to their wedding! Derek and Keshia are from the Philadelphia area, but chose to get married at the beautiful Waterfall in Claymont. After choosing a venue in the First State, they naturally chose a Delaware wedding photographer, and I’m so thankful that they chose me! I started the day with the ladies at the Sheraton in downtown Wilmington. We then moved to the Waterfall so that Keshia could get in her gorgeous gown.

A Delaware Wedding Photographer’s Dream

Derek and Keshia knew from the first time they contacted me that they would like to do a ‘First Look’. Not sure what that is? It’s a time set aside for the bride and groom to spend a few quiet moments together BEFORE the ceremony. Rather than seeing each other for the first time on your wedding day in front of all of your guests, it’s more of an intimate reveal. It is a great moment to catch in photos (as you will see, Derek was pretty blown away by his beautiful bride). There are other reasons it’s a great idea! Check out my FAQs page – I address ‘First Looks’ there.

I refer to grounds of the Waterfall as a photographer’s dream. It has the most beautiful setting for First Looks, ceremonies, groups, etc! The outdoor area boasts a beautiful white marble bridge, gazebo, and fountain just to name a few highlights. You literally have all you need right there for a wide range of photos/backgrounds.

For the ceremony, Keshia’s brother gave her away. I love the view of the fountain behind the ceremony site as people walk down the aisle (you can see it below in one of the photos of Keshia and her brother). Derek and Keshia read their heartfelt vows, exchanged rings, jumped the broom, and are now husband and wife!

Reception Time at the Waterfall

Not only does the Waterfall have beautiful outdoor accommodations, their indoor ballrooms are pretty breathtaking. For this wedding, we were in the Grand Ballroom. Look at the ceiling! Gorgeous. Derek and Keshia started the night with their first dance, and it was a fun one to photograph. The DJ (Jeanyo Entertainment) really brought it with the sparklers and fog!

Derek and Keshia seemed to have a blast – you could see it on their faces! One thing that I love about receptions is all of the completely candid moments. Smiles, laughter, and reactions from guests when the guys refuse to catch the garter (yeah that happened, haha). These are things worth looking back on with some amazing photos.

Derek and Keshia, congratulations! Thank you for the awesome privilege of capturing your day!

Are you getting married and looking for a Delaware wedding photographer? I would love to chat about how we can capture your love story and all the moments you want to treasure. Get in touch!

The Amazing Wedding Team

This wedding had an amazing team of vendors!

Wedding Planner: Elegant Events Planning & Design

Beauty: Sabrina Saint Fort & Desi Artistry

Bride & Bridesmaids Fashion: Nilah & Company

Bride & Bridesmaids Fashion,
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: L&H Bridal

Cake: Desserts by Dana

Cinema: Melanin Love Films

Entertainment: DJ Jeanyo

Florals: Simply Flora’s Florist

Honeymoon: Majestic Dream Vacations

Photography: Creative Image Weddings

Rehearsal Dinner: Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront

Stationery: Minted

Transportation: Ace Limousine & Airport Service

Travel & Accommodations: Sheraton Suites Downtown Wilmington and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Wilmington

Venue: The Waterfall Catering and Special Events