Julia and Matt's intimate courthouse elopement was truly one of the most perfect weddings I have ever had the privilege of photographing. On a chilly January afternoon, the couple, joined by just their immediate family, exchanged vows at the Volusia County Courthouse. It was the kind of wedding that reminds me why I love what I do, and honestly, I wish I could photograph weddings like this every single week for the rest of my life! Let's dive into all the beautiful details of Julia and Matt's special day.
The Heartwarming First Look
As Julia and Matt arrived at the courthouse, they shared a first look that left everyone in awe. The joy and love in their eyes were undeniable, and it was such a heartwarming moment to witness. You could truly see how deeply they cared for each other and how excited they were to start their new chapter together as husband and wife. After their first look, we headed inside the courthouse to finalize their paperwork and meet with the officiant. With the sun shining and a gentle breeze making the day feel perfect, Julia and Matt requested to have the ceremony outside on the courthouse lawn. It was a beautiful setting, creating an intimate and personal atmosphere for their vows.
Strolling Through the Historic Downtown DeLand
After the ceremony, we embarked on a walking tour of the Downtown DeLand Historic District, one of my absolute favorite spots for wedding portraits. The district is brimming with charm and history, making it an ideal backdrop for wedding photography. Mainstreet DeLand is a vibrant area lined with charming boutiques, restaurants, and historic landmarks that give every photo a sense of timeless romance. The architecture is a mix of historic facades and colorful murals, creating endless opportunities for dynamic and unique photos. Walking through the district, it felt like every corner was a new adventure waiting to be captured on camera.
The Old Volusia County Historic Courthouse
One of the best stops along our journey was the old Volusia County Historic Courthouse. This iconic building, with its grand architecture and classic columns, exudes a sense of timeless elegance. Built in 1929, it’s a nod to the rich history of the area and an amazing spot to capture photos that feel both classic and sophisticated. Julia and Matt's portraits in front of the courthouse were stunning, with the building's grandeur providing the perfect backdrop for their love story. The way the light hit the facade, combined with the couple’s joyful energy, made for truly magical images.
A Special Boudoir Gift
At one point during the day, Julia took a moment to present Matt with a gift—one of the best gifts I’ve ever seen a bride give to her groom! It was a boudoir book that I had the pleasure of photographing for her. Seeing his reaction as he flipped through the book was priceless; it was such a personal and meaningful gesture that added another layer of intimacy to their wedding day. The gift was a testament to their love and trust, and it was so special to see the way it strengthened their bond even further.
The Athens Theatre – Champagne Pop Magic
Next, we stopped at one of my favorite spots in DeLand: the Athens Theatre. This historic venue, with its vintage marquee and classic architecture, has been a centerpiece of the community since it first opened in 1922. The lighting was absolutely perfect, so we decided this was the ideal spot for a celebratory champagne pop. The glow from the theater lights, paired with the excitement of popping champagne, created some of my all-time favorite photos. There’s something magical about the Athens Theatre—it feels like stepping back in time, and it brings such a sense of old-world charm that elevates every photo taken in front of it. For Julia and Matt, the energy and excitement of this moment captured the essence of their celebration.
Da Vinci Gardens – A Personal Touch
Julia and Matt frequently enjoy date nights at Da Vinci Gardens, so incorporating this spot into their wedding portraits was a must. The garden is an enchanting hidden gem in downtown DeLand, with its lush greenery, romantic lighting, and cozy atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for a quiet moment amidst the bustle of the city, and it added such a personal touch to their wedding photos. Being able to capture them in a place that holds so many memories made these photos even more meaningful. It’s not just a beautiful spot for photos; it’s a place filled with love and connection for Julia and Matt, making it an integral part of their story.
Sweet Moments at Whit's Frozen Custard
To finish off the photography session, we made a stop at Whit's Frozen Custard store, another local favorite. This charming ice cream shop is a staple in downtown DeLand, and it was the perfect way to wrap up the day. Julia and Matt shared a delicious ice cream sandwich, and I even got to join in on the fun! It was a playful, sweet moment that captured the essence of their relationship—joyful, easygoing, and full of love. Whit's has a nostalgic feel, and the photos taken there have a timeless, carefree vibe that perfectly matched the couple’s personalities.
Why Courthouse Elopements Are a Perfect Choice
Julia and Matt's wedding is a beautiful example of why eloping with just immediate family at a courthouse is such a fantastic option. It allows couples to focus on the moments that truly matter—exchanging vows, celebrating with loved ones, and capturing memories in a relaxed, intimate setting. By choosing a historic downtown location like DeLand, couples have the opportunity to take stunning portraits surrounded by character and charm, without the hustle and stress of a large wedding. It’s about celebrating love in its purest form, and with the right photographer, every moment becomes a timeless memory.
Julia and Matt’s day was a reminder that simplicity, intimacy, and personalization are the keys to a perfect wedding. It was truly an honor to be part of their story, and I can't wait to capture more beautiful, love-filled days like this in the future.