Elizabeth and Michael
Elizabeth and Michael’s wedding day was a perfect reminder that beautiful wedding photos do not depend on perfect weather. Their celebration began at Saint Patrick’s Church in Erie and continued along the waterfront at the Sheraton Bayfront Hotel. Although rain and strong winds arrived early in the day, the results were nothing short of incredible.
If you are planning an Erie Bayfront wedding, their day offers valuable lessons for creating a beautiful experience regardless of the forecast.
Why the Sheraton Bayfront Hotel is a Great Wedding Venue
One of the biggest advantages of the Sheraton Bayfront Hotel is convenience. Elizabeth and Michael were able to get ready at the hotel, leave for their ceremony, and return to a fully prepared reception space.
This seamless flow reduced travel stress and simplified the timeline. As a result, the couple spent more time enjoying their wedding day and less time worrying about logistics.
The hotel also offers excellent indoor photo opportunities. Its glass-lined breezeway provides beautiful natural light throughout the day. Therefore, couples can still capture stunning portraits even when the weather does not cooperate.
For anyone considering an Erie Bayfront wedding, this flexibility is a major benefit.
Weather Challenges Can Create Amazing Photos
Many couples worry when rain or wind appears in the forecast. However, Elizabeth and Michael’s wedding proved that challenging weather can produce unforgettable images.
Their wedding day was one of the windiest we have ever photographed. Instead of fighting the conditions, we embraced them. The result was a collection of dramatic veil portraits that became some of our favorite images from the entire season.
Because of this experience, we often encourage brides to consider a longer veil. Long veils add movement, elegance, and visual impact. On windy days, they can create photographs that feel truly cinematic.
An Erie Bayfront wedding often comes with waterfront breezes. Therefore, planning for wind can actually work in your favor.
Helpful Planning Tips for Wedding Details
Elizabeth and Michael also provided fresh florals for their detail photographs. This small choice made a huge impact.
When preparing your wedding details, ask your florist for a few extra blooms and pieces of greenery. These loose florals help elevate photographs of invitations, rings, jewelry, and other meaningful items.
In addition, consider incorporating fresh flowers near your cake table or cookie table. These elements photograph beautifully and create a more cohesive wedding gallery.
Trust Your Wedding Team
Originally, we planned to photograph portraits at Frontier Park. However, heavy rain forced a last-minute change.
Fortunately, years of wedding experience allowed us to pivot quickly and find alternative locations. Because of that flexibility, Elizabeth and Michael still received a beautiful and diverse collection of portraits.
When planning an Erie Bayfront wedding, choose vendors who can adapt when unexpected situations arise. Experience often makes the difference between stress and confidence.
A Beautiful Ceremony at Saint Patrick’s Church
Saint Patrick’s Church provided a stunning setting for Elizabeth and Michael’s Catholic ceremony. The architecture created a timeless atmosphere, while the church staff and priest were wonderful to work with.
After the ceremony, guests participated in a fun bubble exit outside the church. Bubble exits photograph beautifully and work especially well for both photo and video coverage.
We want to thank Elizabeth and Michael for inviting us to capture their wedding day. It was a joy and honor to celebrate such a sweet couple. Congratulations to the new Mr. & Mrs. Buzas!
Vendor Team:
PHOTOGRAPHER: Sara Haines Photography
VENUE: Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel
STATIONERY & SIGNAGE: Minted
HAIR & MAKEUP: Ambridge Rose Spa & Salon
DRESS: Bridal Elegance
GROOM’S ATTIRE: Men’s Warehouse
ENTERTAINMENT: John Gallagher
CAKE/BAKERS: Justine Made
BRIDES’S MAID DRESSES: Birdy Grey
RINGS: Dahlkemper’s Jewelry Connection
Frequently Asked Questions About an Erie Bayfront Wedding
Is the Sheraton Bayfront Hotel a good venue for rainy wedding days?
Yes. The hotel offers indoor locations with excellent natural light, including its window-lined breezeway. These spaces provide beautiful photo opportunities regardless of weather conditions.
Can you get great wedding photos on a windy day?
Absolutely. Wind can create dramatic and artistic images, especially when a bride wears a long veil. Long veils add movement and elegance to portraits. They also create stunning photographs in waterfront locations.
Is Saint Patrick’s Church a good ceremony location?
Yes. The church offers beautiful architecture, a traditional Catholic setting, and excellent opportunities for portraits both inside and outside.
What is the biggest advantage of an Erie Bayfront wedding?
The waterfront setting provides beautiful scenery while venues like the Sheraton Bayfront Hotel offer flexibility, convenience, and indoor backup options when weather changes unexpectedly.
Planning a wedding in the Erie area? Check out The Best Wedding Venues in Erie, PA and The Best Engagement Photo Locations in Erie, PA. To see an SHP wedding in Erie visit A Brix Winery Wedding, and to see an SHP Engagement visit An Erie Engagement Session. And if you want more information about having SHP shoot your wedding, contact us here.
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