Lakeside Wedding | Emily & Glen | Portraits by Mandy

Lakeside Wedding Full of Rustic Charm & Fireworks

I can’t think of a better way to spend a chilly, overcast Saturday than wrapped up in the joy of a lakeside wedding like Emily and Glen’s. These two are the kind of couple who make everyone around them feel instantly at ease—laid back, kind, and so clearly in love. Their wedding at Waltman Lake Lodge was the perfect reflection of that spirit: relaxed, joyful, and bursting with color.

From the moment I stepped into the bridal suite and saw a perfectly packed box of details waiting for me (photographer love language!), I knew this was going to be a good day. Emily is the type of bride who’s both incredibly organized and completely present. That’s a rare combo, and it made the entire day flow so smoothly—even when a rogue tree branch fell and tried to sabotage the ceremony by pulling her veil out just seconds before she walked down the aisle. True story. The veil popped off, the coordinator popped it back in, and Emily? Completely unfazed. She just laughed and kept moving. My kind of bride.

The ceremony took place outdoors overlooking the lake, with the quiet beauty of the lodge and surrounding woods setting the tone. Despite the cool temps and cloudy skies, the day felt warm. Maybe it was the joyful crowd, maybe it was the incredible bright floral arrangements everywhere you looked (seriously, these flowers were doing the most), but more than anything, I think it was the people. Emily and Glen are clearly loved by many.

One of the most meaningful parts of the day happened at the reception, when Emily and Glen shared a dance with her grandparents—on their 68th wedding anniversary!!—under the twinkle lights on the patio. I don’t even have words for that one. I can’t get over how sweet it is to share an anniversary with such a wonderful example of marriage.

And speaking of unforgettable… they ended the night with a fireworks show. This was a first for me as a photographer, and I won’t lie, I was a little nervous. You only get a few minutes, and there’s no do-over. But oh my goodness. Those images of the two of them watching the sky light up? Total magic.

Emily and Glen, thank you for trusting me with such a sacred, joy-filled day. You made my job easy by being exactly who you are—thoughtful, fun, and full of love. Your lakeside wedding was such a beautiful start to what I know will be a strong, steady marriage. Without further ado, I hope you love reliving this day through these images as much as I loved capturing them.