Bridal portraits at Griffy Lake Nature Preserve

An Intimate Winter Wedding in Bloomington

This winter wedding in Bloomington was a reminder that the simplest wedding days are often the most heartfelt. Sarah and Chance didn’t get caught up in wedding overwhelm—they knew they didn’t need elaborate décor, a weekend packed with events, or even every traditional element to create a day that celebrated their love in a meaningful way. They tied the knot at their former church, joined me for portraits at Griffy Lake Nature Preserve, and then shared an intimate dinner with their loved ones at Uptown Cafe. I was so honored to capture it!

Bride getting ready for her Bloomington wedding

Winter Wedding in Bloomington

As Indiana University alumni, Sarah and Chance always had a feeling they would say “I do” in Bloomington. They met while studying at the IU School of Music—Sarah was a French hornist and Chance a percussionist—and quickly bonded over their shared faith and love of nature. When it came time to plan their wedding, it was important that the day reflect their story.

The day began with a simple ceremony at Hope Presbyterian Church, their place of worship while attending school at IU. Although it was January, the church still had its holiday decorations up, giving the ceremony a beautiful sense of warmth. Against a backdrop of twinkling lights, the couple exchanged vows. Then, as they exited the church, friends and family showered the newlyweds with silly string!

Winter floral arrangement with white roses and evergreens

Wedding ceremony at Hope Presbyterian Church in Bloomington

Portraits at Griffy Lake Nature Preserve

Griffy Lake Nature Preserve is one of my favorite spots for Bloomington wedding portraits. The view of the water is beautiful in every season, and it’s a wonderful place to explore and take a deep breath between wedding events, especially if your venue doesn’t offer many portrait locations.

Although it was very cold on Sarah and Chance’s wedding day, the couple braved the chill for some gorgeous portraits beside Griffy Lake. Sarah bundled up in a soft cardigan and a hand-crocheted scarf as the two of them strolled and twirled along the quiet shoreline. There was so much love in every glance they shared as they took in the fact that their wedding day had finally arrived.

Afterward, we headed downtown to capture a few more portraits before the reception at Uptown Cafe. I love the warmth of the brick in those photos, especially contrasted with the bright downtown lights. It was the perfect way to wrap up our time together before the couple joined their loved ones for a hearty dinner, complete with filet mignon, Uptown’s famous pot roast, and, of course, lots and lots of cake.

I loved that Sarah and Chance stayed true to themselves and planned a laid-back wedding day. Their winter wedding in Bloomington put love at the center, highlighting some of the locations that meant the most to their relationship—a true testament to the uniqueness of their story.

Are you planning a Bloomington wedding? Whether you’re dreaming of a simple celebration like Sarah and Chance’s or a larger event with all the trimmings, I’d love to chat about what you’re planning. We can talk about the kind of photography you’re looking for and how I can serve you. Let’s connect!