Despite the pandemic postponement to their 2020 plans, Jessica and Nick tied the knot at the Fowler House in Lafayette, Indiana on a beautiful afternoon in August.
As a native of Lafayette, the Fowler House has been a fascination to me since childhood. I can remember visiting the house at least once or twice during my childhood when it operated as the local historical society. But, it’s history goes back much further. The house was built by millionaire Moses Fowler back in 1852. (Fowler was a friend of John Purdue, founder of Purdue University.) The house is in the style of “Gothic Revival” which is known for pointed arches in windows and doors and decorative wood trim exteriors. Some of the window even have the original wavy glass.
Not too many years ago, I happened to be in my hometown and stopped by the Fowler House to peek in the windows. I notice that it was not longer a museum but under renovation for an event venue, and I dreamed of one day shooting a wedding or photo shoot there.
My dream came true when Jessica and Nick contacted me about photographing their wedding! With its grand staircase, expansive porch, wood paneling, and wavy glass all contribute to the character of this fabulous venue. Everywhere you look there is a beautiful setting for pictures providing easy story-telling opportunities.
If there is a negative about this location it is that there is no one room large enough to seat a crowd. Guests are seated at tables in adjoining rooms, or even indoors and outdoors as was the case with Jessica and Nick’s wedding. This presents a challenge not just for photography, but also for communication, gathering folks together for speeches, and viewing the special moments like cake cutting and first dances. I would recommend having a good MC or DJ to facilitate the communication and flow of the event.
Jessica and the ladies got ready in a lovely upstairs room overlooking the courtyard and back lawn where the ceremony was held. The natural light in that space is perfect for hair and makeup styling, and the large mirrors make a great dressing room.
Jessica’s uncle drove her in his classic car from the front of the house to the ceremony space at the back lawn while the rest of the wedding party processed from down the staircase at the back of the house.
After the ceremony the portraits of the couple, wedding party, and extended family took place around the classic car, on the front lawn and porch, and a few indoors.
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