Vendors I Love: STEPHANIE LAWRENCE PHOTOGRAPHY
I met Stephanie working on a windy ceremony on the rooftop of the Wythe Hotel. She was so warm and personable - which is always a joy when working on a wedding. When I saw her work, I was like, “wow!” She captures moments in such a genuine way. Our paths crossed again this past fall at The River Cafe. I knew the couple was in great hands! But it’s better to have Stephanie speak about her process! Without further ado, I’m happy to shine the light on Stephanie from STEPHANIE LAWRENCE PHOTOGRAPHY!
What was the path that led you to become a photographer?
I've been a photographer for quite some time now, falling in love with this art form from an early age when my grandfather gifted me my very first digital camera. In high school, I enrolled in a darkroom class where I learned how to shoot, develop and process my own film - simply put, the rest was history!
What excites you about weddings?
What excites me most about weddings is the honesty of them. A wedding day is one of those rare moments in life where people are fully present. Emotions are close to the surface, connections feel deeper, and nothing has to be forced. It brings me such immense joy to see blending families come together. Celebrating the love between two people and the new life they're creating together under one singular roof.
What do you look for in a couple?
I work with couples who lead with love and let everything else fall into place. They know who they are, trust their instincts, and aren’t interested in traditions that don’t feel true to them. My couples aren’t performing for an audience or chasing a picture-perfect version of a wedding day. They’re fully embracing and living it. They show up for the joy, the nerves, the tears, the laughter, and every beautifully imperfect moment in between. Choosing presence over pressure and meaning over expectation.
What is the greatest compliment you’ve ever received?
The greatest compliment I’ve ever received came from a wedding guest earlier this year who told me they completely forgot I was even there taking photos. To know I had blended in so seamlessly, becoming part of the celebration rather than an interruption, meant everything to me. That “fly on the wall” presence is exactly how I want couples and their loved ones to experience their wedding day; fully present, while I quietly document it as it naturally unfolds.
What do you desire for your business?
I desire a business that feels deeply aligned with my values, my creativity, and the couples I serve. I want to continue working with people who trust me, show up as their authentic selves, and value presence over perfection. My goal is to create work for my couples that feels honest and lasting, while building a business that allows me to slow down, stay inspired, and give each story the care it deserves. More than growth for the sake of growth, I want sustainability, creative fulfillment, and connection with both my couples and my own life.
What are you grateful for?
I’m most grateful for the trust my couples place in me. Being invited into such an intimate, meaningful day and given the freedom to document it honestly is something I never take lightly. I’m grateful for the connections that form through this work, for couples who value presence over perfection. And for the ability to build a business rooted in creativity, intention, and human connection. Getting to do work that feels true to who I am while preserving moments that will matter for generations is something I’m deeply thankful for! I also could not make this all happen without my supportive loved ones, especially my husband, Mathew.
