James and Rachel’s rooftop wedding at the Cleveland Embassy Suites
This past Saturday we finally had the chance to photograph the winner of our giveaway. This couple’s story hit close to home for a couple reasons: Rachel has aspired to do wedding photography herself but let that go and opted for a more stable 9-5 job. Giving up on your passion just brakes my heart, especially when that passion is photography. James meanwhile is suffering from kidney failure and patiently waiting for a transplant. My brother has struggled through that exact problem and will be dealing with it for life so I know how tough it can be. You guys are troopers!
We were already looking forward to James and Rachel’s rooftop wedding at the Cleveland Embassy Suites, but we were in for quite a treat when we saw all the fun details they had planned. From the shoes, the rings, birdcage veil, the knee-length wedding dress purchased on Etsy, the paper flowers, the rooftop ceremony and the art gallery reception, this wedding was certainly unique and full of personality.
On to the photos. Let’s start with James’ favorites:

Their first look:


I’ve been dying to photograph a rooftop wedding like ones I’ve seen in New York. Thankfully the view from the Embassy Suites is pretty striking
A touch of ecofetti

In case you didn’t know by now, we at Genevieve Nisly Photography love birdcage veils. Rachel can totally pull it off too

Both Jamy and Rachel are cavs fan so we made some time to head over to the Q for some photos.



Reception at the Wooltex Art Gallery

Rachel was sure to give her daughter Hayle some much needed personal attention.


Rachel’s BFF Lisa with a contagious laugh and great headpiece



Mine:
Her ring holds a chunk of silver



Have I mentioned how much I liked Rachel’s dress? The knee-length and open back was so refreshing. If you have not heard of Etsy yet, you need to check it out!


I was given carte blanche during the ceremony to move around. Whoo hoo!




Grandma was pulled out on the dancefloor against her will




It was such a pleasure photographing you two and your families! Thanks for the extra treat
Great location, fun dress and shoes, this must have been a blast to shoot! I especially love the portraits with the bride sitting in the chair. Perfect!
Wow what a great and fun wedding!! I LOVE all the details as well! That dress is so fantastic! You guys captured the wedding wonderfully and they were very blessed to have you both there! Great job!
AWESOME images! I love the locations and the details of this wedding too – what a great job you did in highlighting them!
I also love the new look of the blog [that is, new since the last time I visited]!
We cannot thank you enough for being part of our day! As we said in the email, we both believe entering the contest was the best thing we did for our wedding! And we’ve only seen the “teasers!”
Your work is just amazing! We cannot wait to see more. Thanks again,
The Barbics
Fabulous pictures guys – love the shoes!!!
Looks like such a wonderful fun day for Rachel and James, you captured the Rockwell Ring so perfectly! I’ll take pleasure in recommending your work.
I too, love the pics of the bride sitting in the chair on the roof. Beautiful!!!