Cynthia Viola Photography

Beth and Sean

Marywood Center Wedding | Beth and Sean

Wedding PhotographyCynthia Viola
You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams
— Dr. Seuss
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Rehearsal

I remember talking to Beth several months ago as it was raining on their second photoshoot with me and we decided that the chances of it raining a third time, on their wedding day, had to be very slim, so we accepted it and waited for the big day. The universe did not disappoint! They had the MOST beautiful day without a cloud in the sky and a perfect cool breeze coming in off the lake at Marywood Retreat. We were practically jumping with joy!

They had tons friends and family come in from out of state and it was wonderful to see them all able to celebrate together. A couple times while they were getting ready the girls talked about different people being there and Beth got a little choked up. I love it when couples have such wonderful relationships with their guests. They were laughing and dancing all night long, so grateful for the time together.

Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Details
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Bride
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Details
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Bride

Beth’s nieces are super important to her, and they loved seeing her all dressed up. Addy thought it would be cute during the photos to run off and hide at one point though. After every bridesmaid kicked into full momma-bear mode and scoured the grounds we found her hiding under one of the beds just giggling. She was happy to pose for the photos after that. Gotta love a little adventurer.

Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Bridesmaids
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Groomsmen
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Ceremony
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Marywood Retreat Center Wedding
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Reception
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Reception

Steve and Jessica gave heartfelt speeches about how kind Beth and Sean are, how they’re perfect for each other and committed to one another no matter the trials they’ve had or will have. With plenty of tears shared they gave out hugs then turned to the dance floor to dance the night away. It was such a beautiful evening.

Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Reception
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Reception
Marywood Retreat Center Wedding Sparkler Exit


We wish you guys all the happiness in the world! Thank you for letting us be a part of your big day!

The Vendors who made Today Possible:

Photographers: Cynthia Viola with Kalypso Burley

Venue and Catering: Marywood Retreat Center

Coordinator: Ansley Beaver and Matt Achorn at Marywood

Bride and Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Melissa Sweet from David’s Bridal

Groom and Groomsmens’ Suits: Men’s Warehouse

Hair Stylist: Lauren Burks with Braid Bar

Make Up Artist: Kelsey Sgroi

Florist: Flowers by Shirley

Officiants: Father Guy Noonan & Deacon Mark Sciullo

DJ: DJ Richard Levine

Cake Baker: Publix

Invitations: Vistaprint

Favors: WeddingsByChelsie (Etsy)


Alpine Groves Engagement | Beth and Sean

Engagement PortraitsCynthia Viola
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do rather than the ones you did
— Mark Twain
Rainy engagement shoot

It has been nothing but adventure with these two from the moment we met. Beth and Sean actually won a session with me right when I moved down here last year. I was trying to get to know new families and couples and we hit it off right away! Hurricane Irma had just swept through leaving behind scattered storms and a billion mosquitos so we got to know each other real quick as we sat in the car waiting for a particularly heavy storm to pass. (In Florida, I learned very quickly, you just wait out the storm, you rarely need to cancel the shoot).

 Their first couple photoshoot  involved dancing in the rain and this one was no different. You could say they're pros by now, but it's important to know how to take on less than pleasant situations with your love. How you handle them together will either grow your relationship or hurt it. These two don't seem to even blink when life throws crazy at them. I know they're going to be amazing together for life. 

They've been dating for 5 years, and still blush when the other gives them a compliment. I love it. We attempted to stay dry with the umbrellas at first, but eventually just let it go, there was no use. Nothing makes me happier than a couple willing to let loose and just let life happen. The images are more real and the memories lasting. After all, there's nothing memorable about a shoot where you did everything you were told, smiled when you were supposed to, and nothing went wrong. You'll end up with pretty images, but they won't tell a story. The story comes in the pouring rain and the wet feet and failed "Dirty Dancing" jump attempts. It comes in the secrets given and laughter shared.

I'm grateful for you both Sean and Beth! Can't wait til April!

Rainy engagement shoot
Engagement shoot in the rain
Engagement shoot in the rain
Engagement shoot in the rain

If you enjoyed this you might also enjoy this rainy couple session, and this one at North Beach Pier