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Modest-Glam Wilbur Mansion Wedding in Lehigh Valley | PA Wedding Photographer

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This Wilbur Mansion wedding could not have been more perfect and picturesque for two longtime sweethearts. Journeying through the previous year with Andrew and Rachel has been a true privilege. From photographing the moment Rachel said “yes” to Andrew’s proposal at National Cathedral, to their picture-perfect snowy engagement session at the DAR Headquarters, to a warm rehearsal dinner at Hotel Bethlehem (more to come on that in a later ENP Journal post). Now I cannot wait to share highlights from their wedding day in Lehigh Valley, PA!

Andrew & Rachel’s Love Story

As sweet as any love story could be, Andrew & Rachel are longtime childhood friends. They attended the same elementary school, where Rachel first developed a crush on Andrew (unbeknownst to him)! But it wasn’t until 2020, after years of casual, occasional connecting on social media, that Andrew reached out and eventually shared his feelings for her. The plot twist – she was a taken woman at the time!

Remaining friends, Rachel’s previous relationship ended and they once again connected and began officially dating in the summer of 2021. Their relationship endured long distance as Rachel moved to DC and family tragedies with the loss of Rachel’s father. Andrew’s love was steadfast and his remote job allowed for extended visits to keep growing their love together. Finally, on November 5, 2023, Andrew proposed to Rachel at the National Cathedral, a milestone in their relationship I had the honor of preserving as their photographer!

Returning to Lehigh Valley, PA for a Wilbur Mansion Wedding

Now Andrew & Rachel are preparing to move into their new home together in Arlington, VA. But they returned to the setting their connection first started – the Lehigh Valley – to seal their commitment to one another. I first arrived at the Bethlehem Hotel to photograph their Rehearsal Dinner and “Night Before” portraits. Befitting this childhood friendship-turned-marriage, the warmth and love between their dinner guests was palpable.

By the next morning, that buzz of energy and excitement was still riding high. Andrew & Rachel both got ready at Wilbur Mansion, their wedding reception venue. The mansion was a perfect setting for their wedding day design, blending traditional, steeltown manor charm with minimalist, mid-century modern decor.

A Touching Packer Memorial Church Wedding Ceremony

After a sweet first look with her bridesmaids, we all headed to their ceremony at Lehigh University’s Packer Memorial Church. The ornate cathedral sat in stunning glory against Pennsylvania’s peak fall foliage. There, Andrew & Rachel shared their personal vows before their friends and family, committing their relationship to the Lord.

We couldn’t help but use the gorgeous fall backdrop at the church for their family formals and bridal party portraits! Of course we had to stay behind a tad longer for their newlywed portraits, as well. The glow on both their faces was so fun to capture in the vibrant, sunlit colors surrounding them.

Wilbur Mansion Wedding Cocktail Hour & Reception

Returning to Wilbur Mansion, we continued with a few more portraits before sending the couple off to their cocktail hour. They were welcomed by their guests and were able to spend time greeting each one before beginning their reception dinner.

After dancing into the reception space, everyone settled at their tables with salad to hear from the couple’s friends and Rachel’s mom for toasts. Admittedly, Rachel’s mom’s toast had me tearing up. Maybe that’s because I’m now a mom to a baby girl. But she so beautifully made tribute to Rachel & Andrew’s story.

One touching moment I’ll always remember was when Rachel was surprised by an additional toast. Her best friend Lana, who was originally to serve as maid of honor but could not make the wedding, recorded a toast speech for Rachel. It was watched on an iPad while guests got to listen through the speakers as Lana shared her love for Rachel and her new marriage to Andrew. There were few dry eyes in the room.

In Andrew & Rachel’s Words…

In the spirit of my mission to magnify the beauty of marriage, I always love asking couples what it is that they love most about one another. Emily Nicole Photography best serves couples seeking to build beautiful marriages. That is so often done through the little mundane moments that remind you why you love each other. So, in Andrew & Rachel’s own words, here is how they answered.

What Rachel loves about Andrew: “It is so hard to say what I love most. Andrew is truly the best person I know. He is so selfless. He puts others first in every single scenario. I love how much he loves and takes care of his family, and does the same for me.”

What Andrew loves about Rachel: “I love Rachel’s sense of humor. We laugh so much in our relationship and just have some much fun teasing one another.”

What do you value most about your relationship?

“We value the unwavering commitment we have one another, and the friendship and love we have in one another.”

What is the most beautiful thing about marriage, in your opinion?

“The most beautiful thing about marriage is its representation of Christ’s love for His church, and its life long commitment.”

Congratulations, Andrew& Rachel, and to your families as well. I wish you both such a beautiful married life ahead. May it be filled with wonderful adventures, gracious blessings, and plenty of new restaurants to visit together. 😉

Vendor Shoutouts

I was honored to work alongside a vendor dream team, consisting of the following talent:

More Journal Posts Like This

Love what you see and want to be the next ENP Couple? I travel all over the East Coast, as well as serve couples in the DMV area who want to build a beautiful marriage. Learn more, then inquire with me today to chat!

Meanwhile, check out my other work below to get inspired as you plan your special day.

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Engagement Photo Ideas That Tell Your Story

Every couple has a unique story, and the best engagement photo ideas go far beyond posed smiles. Recently, I photographed “A” & “L’s” engagement session—an ENP couple who requested that I protect their privacy and not share identifiable images online. Their request wasn’t just respected; it opened the door for a deeply intentional session filled with quiet, meaningful moments that beautifully reflected their relationship.

As a photographer specializing in storytelling and editorial imagery, I want couples to know that your engagement session can and should feel personal. You don’t need to perform for the camera—you just need a photographer who knows how to turn your real-life love into visual poetry.

Why Engagement Photo Ideas Should Be Personal

Many couples think engagement photos are just about dressing up and smiling at the camera. While I definitely capture classic portraits, that’s only a fraction of the full story. The best engagement photo ideas come from understanding who you are as a couple—your rituals, your connection, your humor, and your journey.

For “A” & “L,” that meant starting their session in a quiet park, sitting side-by-side on a bench where they’ve spent countless hours reading their Bibles and journaling together. These aren’t just habits—they’re emotional anchors in their relationship. Photographing those rituals added a depth to their gallery that no traditional pose ever could.

And then there was the ring: “A” wears a gold band on his right hand as a symbol of engagement in his culture. On their wedding day, that ring will move to his left. It’s a tradition full of meaning—and one I made sure to feature with a detailed, editorial-style shot that tells that part of their story.

Editorial Engagement Photo Ideas for Storytelling

When we think of great engagement photo ideas, editorial photography might not be the first thing that comes to mind—but it should be. Editorial doesn’t mean impersonal or overly styled. It means refined, intentional, and expressive.

I guide my couples with subtle posing, always encouraging movement, touch, and interaction. In “A” & “L’s” gallery, I included:

  • Classic portraits (yes, the ones grandma wants for her mantel)
  • Thoughtful candids full of laughter and genuine connection
  • Detail shots of meaningful objects like their Bibles and both “L” and “A’s” engagement rings
  • Wide, environmental shots that add context and a sense of place
  • Quiet in-between moments that feel like stills from a film

These engagement photo ideas create a well-rounded gallery that feels less like a checklist and more like a visual love letter.

Tips to Plan Meaningful Engagement Photo Ideas

Want to make sure your session is just as unique and story-driven? Here are some ways you can help me create something truly special:

1. Share Your Love Story With Me

Before the session, I’ll send you a short questionnaire. This helps me understand your personalities, how you fell in love, what you value, and how you spend time together. The more I know, the more authentic your photos will be.

2. Bring Meaningful Props

If there’s a book you both love, a blanket from your first date, or items that symbolize your relationship (like “A’s” gold band), bring them! These kinds of details give your engagement photo ideas texture and significance.

3. Pick a Location That Matters to You

Sure, sunset fields and rooftops are gorgeous—but so is the cozy corner of your favorite café or the trail where you go on weekend walks. Let’s choose a spot that feels like you.

4. Let the Moments Unfold Naturally

My sessions are never rushed or overly choreographed. I’ll offer guidance, but the best photos happen when you’re genuinely present with each other. Laugh, talk, cuddle—just be yourselves.

How Your Love Story Inspires Timeless Engagement Photo Ideas

At the end of the day, engagement photo ideas should celebrate what’s true and beautiful about your relationship—not a one-size-fits-all concept. With “A” & “L,” we created something soft, editorial, and sacred without ever showing a full face. Their images still speak volumes, because they are layered with authenticity, intention, and emotional storytelling.

If you’re looking for an engagement session that feels deeply “you”—with all the variety, intimacy, and editorial beauty you’ve been dreaming of—I would be honored to create that with you.

Looking for an Atlanta-based wedding photographer? Let’s design your dream engagement session together. Click here to inquire and save your date.

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