This downtown Indianapolis elopement was so incredible to photograph. From the amazing couple, to the decor and thoughtful touches, to the splash of fun and surprise mixed in. Tanorria has been a long time client of mine for headshots, and I’ve been witness to her journey as a public figure, author, chef, racial equality educator, woman, friend, and now married lady! I was so thrilled to witness this elopement and help document a beautiful and amazing couple.
Downtown Indianapolis at The Stutz Building was the setting for the day
Tanorria reached out to ask if we could use a studio space I work out of for her downtown Indianapolis elopement. I knew it would be the perfect fit. The neutral space was ready for the custom backdrop and simple decor Tanorria and Tay selected for their elopement. There was cake and champagne, as well as gorgeous florals. Plenty of rose gold touches made this space transform into such a beautiful elopement setting.
Tanorria had a fun surprise up her sleeve
Being that their elopement happened to fall on October 31, Tanorria decided to do a fun surprise for Tay. She donned a blow-up unicorn costume and did a faux first look with Tay outside. He was so surprised and I loved the laughs and reactions Tanorria got. I loved that Tanorria went with the holiday and added some extra fun to her already fun day.
A simple elopement ceremony with just a few people
Tanorria has always been one that has struck me as confident in who she is and what she wants. I loved seeing her and Tay create the wedding they wanted. They only had a few helpers present. This included Tanorria’s close friend to officiate. This couple married one another in a simple yet stunning ceremony. It goes to show that you can really create the wedding day that *you* want. Tanorria and Tay made their wedding unique to them, and that made me happy.
After a more formal first look, the couple shared a bourbon toast together. After some photos we made our way to the studio space for the ceremony. Tanorria walked up in her soft dress while Tay in his sharp suit looked on. Candace, their officiant and dear friend, led them through a simple ceremony, helping them wed. They then sealed their ceremony by jumping the broom together.
Champagne, Cake, a dance, and photos
They toasted with champagne and had a bite of the custom cake Tanorria had made for their wedding day. After a sweet first dance and some photos with their helpers, Tanorria and Tay were ready for some photos.
We shot portraits in the studio, utilizing a velvet couch and the neutral walls. Then we made our way downtown to finish up their photo coverage.
We landed at the Indiana Statehouse for photos next. The limestone backdrop and touches of green were a perfect setting for these two. I loved how relaxed and comfortable they were. They didn’t need to rush and be off to the next wedding to-do list because they chose something small and elegant. To all the couples considering an elopement, you won’t be disappointed! Choose the elements of your wedding that feel true to you, and make your wedding unique to you!
Tanorria and Tay: I absolutely loved getting to work with you for your downtown Indianapolis elopement and I feel so honored to know you.
Venue: The Stutz Building
Florist: Flower Box Indy
Cake: Hannah Bakes
Dress: David’s Bridal
Makeup: Temara Payton
Groom outfit: Men’s Wearhouse
Hair: Wild Locz
Officiant: Candace of Food Love Tog
Photography: Leah Rife Photo
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR AN ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOUR WEDDING? I WOULD LOVE TO TALK TO YOU ABOUT DOCUMENTING YOUR BEAUTIFUL CELEBRATION WITH A CUSTOM ELOPEMENT PACKAGE. REACH OUT HERE TO CHAT WITH ME TODAY!
