Khalif + Cladia: An Enchanting August Wedding

When Two Become One

The first chapter of Cladia Plantin and Khalif Mentor‘s happily ever after: August 9, 2020.

Even in the midst of a pandemic, one thing remains: The inseparable bond and connection between these two. I had the honor of capturing their intimate engagement session at Hunting Hill Mansion back in June. Both are humble and caring humans who are madly in love. Recently, I had the immense privilege of being their Lancaster wedding photographer. It was a day they will remember for the rest of their lives.

Riverdale Manor in Lancaster, PA

Khalif and Cladia’s special day was held at this historical 19th-century farmhouse, and wow, were we blown away. Located an hour outside of the city of Philadelphia, you will find this waterfront venue based on 6 acres that boast all of the Conestoga River’s beautiful sights. The endless beauty easily offers up a plethora of backdrops.

It’s impressive what Riverdale Manor has to offer. The amenities are modern and the staff was impeccable! It’s genuinely a first-class joint. When you step inside the pavilion, you will experience a natural and rustic setting surrounded by foresty. And let’s not forget about the ballroom. Here you will find grand beamed ceilings and wooden floors. The windows are magnificent, allowing natural light to illuminate the entire space. Look up, and you’ll observe iron chandeliers that genuinely help create a shabby chic atmosphere. This makes for the perfect dancefloor!

Turn It Up!

Oh – and big thanks to Occasions Disc Jockeys for their services. Their energy had everybody on their feet. If you need DJ services for any festivity, hit them up for professional and trustworthy services that won’t disappoint.

On the day of a wedding, there is an on-site farmhouse where bridal parties can prepare for the day in privacy. I’m sure no matter what type of event you might hold here, it will exceed your expectations.

Teamwork Makes The Dream Work

There are definitely people who we would like to show our appreciation to that created a flawless day. Having quality and dependable vendors on your wedding day makes all the difference. They play an essential role in how the entire day will pan out. Could you imagine a caterer being two hours late? Ever heard of the words bridezilla or better yet, hangry? Trust me when I say check out reviews, do your research, and look for professionalism. I would recommend quality vendors to avoid unwanted stress that might even show through your photos. Thankfully, each vendor used for this wedding was outstanding and provided amazing services.

Once Upon A Time

Cladia dazzled in her gown from The Sample Rack – a locally owned shop that offers designer wedding gowns for a fraction of the price. They believe everyone deserves to feel like a million bucks, without having to spend big bucks to do so. Her off-white Pronovia wedding dress was fit for the queen she is.

Dr. G Makeup Artist added her special touches and made Cladia picture perfect. Her hair was a masterpiece, thanks to The Philly Hair & Makeup Co. And for Khalif, he was handsome in his outgoing blue tux and bow tie, thanks to the Men’s Wearhouse. His smile is enough in itself to light up any room he walks into, and you can definitely tell he is over the moon for Cladia. They couldn’t have done a better job at matching his unique style.

A huge shoutout to Monica from Thyme & Seasons for coordinating the venue and supplying catering services that had everyone smiling. They even created the mouth-watering cake that had all the guests talking. Each bite was incredibly delicious and dreamy!

We would also like to give them a shoutout for supplying the groomsmen’s attire; everyone looked spectacular. The bridesmaids were picture perfect in their dresses from Azazie.

Forever & Ever

Before the ceremony, these two had the opportunity to do their first look session. Wedding nerves are real, so this is always a good time to shake off the jitters. It was a remarkable moment as they saw each other in a private setting away from family and friends. It’s a tender and intimate moment couples can cherish and remember for the rest of their lives. They were so happy to have some time to see each other finally!

Their closest family and friends surrounded Cladia and Khalif outside for their ceremony. Their wooden alter embraced simplicity and style with mesmerizing flowers flowing down the sides. The white chairs on the green lawn were enchanting, and the way the sunlight snuck in through the tree’s canopy was absolutely breathtaking. Guests beat the heat thanks to the delightful fans given to them (these wooden fans displayed the wedding program info on them – so fun).

More Thank Yous

Thanks to Plenty of Petals for arranging the blooms – the resulting arrangments were to die for. As the bridal parties made their way up the center aisle, Cherrywood Live Ensembles performed beautiful live melodies, and they also played during cocktail hour.

These two bought their wedding signs from some of my favorite places to online shop – Etsy and Minted. They were quirky and adorable! It can be challenging to shop for weddings, but these sites make it much simpler to do. Etsy is an endless site that offers unique products made from real sellers – it’s borderline addicting. Minted offers unlimited designs from talented artists for basically anything; prints, pillows, totes, and so much more.

Teaming Up

I am grateful for the second photographer we had for this wedding, Ben Deibert. Having a second set of eyes and another lense has various benefits when it comes to photographing a wedding. As much as I’d like to be, I cannot be in two places at once. For more extensive sessions (like weddings), it almost becomes necessary to have two photographers. When I was located in one place, Ben was at another. Regardless if we are in the same room or not, I know there were plenty of minor details, angles, and volume that we captured and accomplished as a team.

Two minds and two cameras are better than one. Every single detail matters for a couple’s wedding, that’s why having a second shooter was a major win-win on both sides. For example, a second shooter can capture pictures of things like rings while the other photographer focuses on the bridal party etc. – one must not forget those important shots of rings! They symbolize marriage and unity. These rings are exclusively from Zales and really have that wow factor!

Of course, where would I be without the greatest assistant ever? A huge thank you to Denida Seybert for being there to make sure everything is seamless and smooth. Not all superheroes wear capes!

It’s Honeymoon Time!

At the end of the day… after the cake is devoured and the dances are done, it’s always best to go out with a bang, right? Right. A wedding usually includes a beautiful entrance, so these two decided it was only best to have an exit that matched just that. We’ve all seen a romantic movie where guests throw rice or doves are released as a couple leaves together for the first time as newlyweds. It’s classical and timeless! Their sparkler exit was unique and made for stunning images. The guests loved being a part of this, too, as they sent off the honeymooners!

#PlantinGotMentored

It was a glorious wedding – my heart is full from working with people who are so full of love, laughter, and fun. I hope the next chapters of their new lives together are everything they’ve ever dreamed of. It was a blessing to be able to witness such a momentous day, and to document it through photographs.

As you begin this new beautiful covenant, may you both stay true to each other and enjoy life to the fullest. We know you as will as you two are perfect for each other! Congratulations again – we wish you the best. Here are a few more of some of our favorite shots!

Wedding Photography in Lancaster, PA

Weddings – it’s one of my specialties. There’s nothing better than a great love story. As a Philadelphia wedding photographer, that’s one of the best parts about my job – creating relationships with clients and following their journey in this crazy thing called life.

If you are ready to freeze those special moments in your life and produce those into admirable imagery, click here for more info. J&J Studios is ready to meet you and embark on this adventure with you.