Bridal portraits at Laurel Hall in Indianapolis

Modern Black and White Wedding at Laurel Hall

A wedding and portrait photography based in Bloomington, Indiana, serving couples and families across the country and beyond.

MIKA

Meet

I first met Rae and Darion seven years before they got engaged, when they were still students at IU. At the time, I was just starting as a professional photographer and looking for ways to build my portfolio. I snapped some portraits of the two of them, and we kept in touch. Many years later, I had the honor of photographing their wedding at Laurel Hall!

Flatlay of a black Art Deco wedding invitation and a golden female bust figurine

Wedding dress hanging between two windows at Laurel Hall

Laurel Hall: Indianapolis Wedding Venue

When Rae and Darion began planning their wedding, they envisioned an upscale venue with a vintage feel. They soon stumbled upon Laurel Hall, which perfectly fits that description. The elegant mansion features historic architectural details, ornate wood paneling, and stained glass windows. The grounds are also lovely, with six acres of gardens and mature trees, making them the perfect setting for portraits. Additionally, a grand staircase descends from the mansion to the outdoor ceremony space. I’ll never forget the moment Rae appeared at the top to make her entrance as a bride!

Rae and Darion wanted to do an in-depth exploration of their venue before their wedding day. So, we shot their engagement session at Laurel Hall, too! We enjoyed revisiting locations from that session when we shot their bridal portraits, especially the staircase inside the mansion.

Floral pillars with baby's breath and white roses at an outdoor wedding ceremony

Black and White Spring Wedding

Rae and Darion’s wedding was a vintage-meets-modern affair. The historic setting created a backdrop for an elegant event, and the couple encouraged their guests to wear formal attire. Meanwhile, modern black and white details ensured the celebration felt fresh.

The ceremony, cocktail hour, and portions of the reception were outdoors to make the most of the spring weather. The couple exchanged vows in a tucked-away green space with the mansion as their backdrop. Then, as I whisked them away for portraits, their guests migrated to the patio for drinks and mingling. Soon after, Rae and Darion’s grand entrance with their wedding party signaled the start of the reception! Their attendants carried custom marquee signs as a nod to the couple’s love of the movies.

After dinner, Rae and Darion’s first dance, and the cake-cutting ceremony, the reception continued inside the mansion. This couple’s guests came ready to party, and the dance floor was always busy! A late-night snack of Domino’s pizza fueled the celebration into the wee hours.

Black and white seating chart sign with line-drawn florals

Cocktail hour on the patio at Laurel Hall

I’m so glad I had this opportunity to reconnect with Rae and Darion! Their wedding day was full of love and laughter, and the setting at Laurel Hall was unforgettable. Whether you’re planning an Indianapolis wedding or plotting a proposal, I would be honored to help you preserve your memories. Start by exploring my photography services, then get in touch to schedule a discovery call!