I was thinking about just how to describe this wedding on my way traveling back to Orlando, and I thought that the word 'love' sums up the day in it's entirety. There was thoughtfulness and love put into every aspect of Emily and Julia's  day. A deep, true love for each other, an explosion of love from everyone so excited to see them happy, a love for those remembered, a love of florals and a love of good cake. A little rain in their hometown of Buffalo, NY did not phase anyone! 
Mary and I were obviously giddy to photograph two brides and they just happened to be absolutely stunnig!! Julia chose a strapless Ines Di Santo gown from Nordstrom and paired it with a Toni Federici cathedral length veil. Her classic look was flawless with an updo and makeup by Salon Elizabeth. Julia added a touch of glitz with her blue, crystal embellished Badgley Mischka heels. Emily looked stunning in a simple and elegant high neck wedding gown. She chose a timeless style with hair and makeup by Excuria Salon. Emily wore her hair swept back into relaxed curls and completed her look with her grandmother's timeless veil. 
Their first look was in the gardens at the Twentieth Century Club. It was exciting, emotional and filled with pure joy. Julia shed a few tears of happiness and it was so sweet for them to have a few moments just to be together. There may have been a small audience watching from the balcony, but they waited to cheer and it was more than welcomed!! 
Butterflies have always reminded Julia of her late father, so it was only fitting to have a butterfly release on this special day. In the company of their closest family and friends, Emily and Julia released a box full of butterflies. One flew right on top of Julia's bouquet and just hung out there for several minutes. It was a beautiful way to honor her dad's memory.
Emily and Julia walked each other down the aisle and it was simply gorgeous. Both of their mothers wept and I truly believe that everyone in the room was touched. Julia's stepfather served as the wedding officiant and provided an extremely heartfelt ceremony.  Tears of happiness were abound. 
After the emotional ceremony, it was time to celebrate! Julia worked at Maureen's Wholesale Flower Market for several years, so of course they were called upon for all the florals. They certainly executed and turned the Twentieth Century Club ballroom into a romantic space filled with candlelight, sprawling greens and the most beautiful assortment of flowers. 
The couple was introduced to their guests and cut their simple, yet lovely, white wedding cake by Carriage Trade Pastries. Wedding cake may have been dinner for one bride and I think that may have been the most amazing choice! The speeches from Emily and Julia's siblings were both thoughtful and funny. Poppers on the tables revealed colorful crowns for each guest, and it was time to party!  Atlas Band played an assortment of Motown and fun music which had everyone on the dance floor immediately. Conversations, laughing, dancing and cocktails. All the good stuff.  It was all there. Full of love, for these two beautiful people. Just as Emily and Julia fell madly in love with each other, it is very clear that their family and friends are so in love with them, together as a couple. 
Congratulations Emily + Julia! We were so excited to be a part of your incredible day! 

Venue: Twentieth Century Club
Dress: Nordstrom - Ines Di Santo
Veil: Nordstrom - Toni Federici
Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Julia's Hair and Makeup: Salon Elizabeth
Emily's Hair and Makeup: Excuria Salon
Invitations: Zenger Group
Rings: Blue Nile
Florals: Maureen's Wholesale Flower Market
Cake: Carriage Trade Pastries
Band: Atlas Band
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan

Keywords: Orlando Wedding Photographer, Destination Wedding Photographer, Buffalo Wedding Photographer, Florida Wedding Photographer, Orlando Brides, Buffalo Brides, Florida Brides, Orlando Weddings, Buffalo Weddings. 

I'm not quite sure when our little boy turned into a big kid, but here he is. 5 years old today. I feel compelled to write this in scattered thoughts like the conversations we have. He will ask the most random questions and is thrilled to hear a ten minute explanation, especially during church or a movie. He loves every sport and will gladly play with anyone. He is quiet but full of personality. He likes to help me cook. He is happy to play with kids 3 years older or 3 years younger than himself. He is a night owl and only wakes up in the morning if his breakfast is ready. He is our middle dude. He loves his older brother and wants to do everything he does. He is also protective of his younger sister and endlessly entertains her. He is by far the silliest of the 3 and can make either one laugh in an instant. He is our peacemaker. Always the first to compromise or share. He gets very sensitive when he's overtired. He just learned to ride his bike without training wheels and is so proud of himself. He always "loses his question." He is aloof most of the time and can get lost walking to the car. Sometimes, we think he may actually be living on his own planet. But then he will put something together the we can't even do. The most frequent answer to a question we receive is still "Whaaaaat?" We adore his laugh and mischievous smile, his quiet confidence and willingness to help. Unless that includes picking up all the toys that he pulled out. If there are tools or cleaning supplies involved, he is in!  He wants to be a hockey goalie and takes pride in putting on all the pads and practices the moves he has memorized while in goal. He loves being outdoors and swimming. I think he would sleep outside, if we would let him. He is my adventurer who loves to explore and gather treasure. Anything we find is exciting and he is just as happy to toss it as he is to find it. It does not take much to make this guy happy and we are so thankful for him!
​Happy 5th Birthday Joey! We love you so much!

I am savoring these last, baby nurturing days
As each one slowly slips through my fingers.
You repeatedly show me that you are strong willed.
Fiercly independent.
All too often,
Opting to hold my hand rather than be held.
Full of vibrant personality. 
A bright smile shimmering when you giggle.
Little curls bouncing as you anxiously run to keep up with your boys. 
I will continue to bask in the warm sunshine of your early morning snuggles. 
Revel in the evenings when you crawl into my lap, 
Gazing up at me as you gently pat my shoulder. 
Time is a thief. 
So I hold on tight to these moments 
Knuckles white, 
Like you now grasp my hand as we walk together. 
I hope you always love me as much as you do now. 
My little shadow.
My sweet baby girl. 

Happy 2nd Birthday, P!

Keywords:
​Orlando Family Photographer, Orlando Newborn Photographer, Orlando Lifestyle Photographer

I love engagement sessions. It is so great to get to know a couple before their actual wedding date! Amanda and Matt are truly the sweetest couple, so kind, and just beautiful people. And, can I please have Amanda's hair?! Gah!! I had so much fun with them at their beach session. I can hardly wait until their summer wedding next year! For all of my friends in Orlando, here is proof that there are beaches near Buffalo and that it is not always snowing!! Only for about 7 months! Ha

I remember the days leading up to the birth of our second baby. The uncertainty. The guilt. Feeling like you are going to crush your first born's whole world. Bringing home your sweet baby, feeling so full of love, and wondering just how your toddler will react to this new little being who will take over their home. Then, something magical happens. Your toddler suddenly falls madly in love with their new sibling. They want to hold the baby, snuggle the baby, feed the baby. And so that sibling bond begins. This is something that moves me to the core. I love seeing it with my own children and I truly hope that they will always be close. I am so grateful that I was able to witness this bond with sweet Brennan and his new sister, Molly. Here are some of my favorites from Molly's in-home newborn session at just 5 days old. Big brother really loved her up!! 

Jenna + Jeff know how to party, and what a party it was! Every measure was taken to ensure their day was fun and that those closest to them had a great time while they experienced Buffalo, NY,  Jenna's home town! 

The day started off with Hair and Makeup for 10 girls! Hair Reformation by Natalie and her team had everyone looking gorgeous in record time. We were seriously impressed by their beautiful work and efficiency!  Jenna wore a gorgeous fitted white gown from M.A. Carr Bridal that featured a low cut back adorned with beaded straps for a touch of sparkle. She paired her dress with a chic updo and cathedral length veil. Jenna completed her look with shimmery Jimmy Choo heels. She was beyond stunning! We witnessed a sentimental moment when Jenna's dad saw his little girl in her wedding dress, eyes welled up with tears. It was so sweet!! Jenna's bridesmaids were beautiful in a their many variations of flowing blush gowns from Lulu's and Adrianna Papell. The guys sported Men's Wearhouse Calvin Klein Extreme Slim Fit suits in blue with tan shoes. All of the bouquets, bouts and table arrangements by Woyshner's Flower Shop looked lovely with white roses and hydrangeas, lush greenery and blush accents. 

Jenna + Jeff were married with a traditional Catholic ceremony held at Saint Michael Church in downtown Buffalo, where Jenna's family has long attended mass. After the ceremony, we took some wedding portraits at the ever popular Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the same location where Jenna's parents had their wedding photos taken over 30 years ago! As Jenna + Jeff walked down the gallery stairs, back to their Status Limousine party bus, they were greeted with cheers and dancing that literally shook the bus. It was quite the welcome and a sure sign that it was time to par-tay! They took a few laps in the bus before cocktail hour at the renowned Statler City. The golden ballroom looked amazing with the sheer essence of it's historic nostalgia and all of Jenna and Jeff's personal touches. White florals and greens, combined with the vast crystal chandeliers and candlelight provided a grand and romantic feel.  

The party got started when the bride and groom walked in to Def Leppard's "Pour Some Sugar on Me." Their energy was infectious! Thoughtful and emotional toasts to the couple were exchanged, followed by first dances full of crowd pleasing spins and dips. Everyone then congregated to the dance floor as Shine played so many great songs. They were unbelievable, even coming down on to the dance floor allowing the crowd sing along on the mike. Blackhorse Videography was there to document it all and we cannot wait to see that video! Everyone, young and old, was singing and dancing  all night long. Perhaps the highlight of the night was when the bride got on stage and sang to Shania Twain's "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" The crowd went wild!  It was such a good time! The whole day was just perfect, and fun. So much fun!!! Congratulations Jenna + Jeff! We wish you a lifetime of love, laughter and good times together!!


Venue: Statler City
Ceremony: Saint Michael Church
Dress and Veil: M.A. Carr Bridal
Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Suits: Men's Wearhouse Calvin Klein Extreme Slim Fit
Florals: Woyshner's Flower Shop
Hair and Makeup: Hair Reformation by Natalie
Transportation: Status Limousine
Desserts: Kupkate's 
Jewelry: Kendra Scott
Groom's Wedding Band: Aydin's
Bride's Wedding Band and Engagement Ring: Cheryl Fornash
Bridesmaid Dresses: Lulu's and Adrianna Papell
Band: Shine
Video: Blackhorse Videography
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan

While in town from Orlando, I got to meet this adorable baby girl!! I love a good one year old cake smash and this little one did not disappoint! I think it's safe to say that sweet Mia thoroughly enjoyed her first experience with cake. That, and clapping at Daddy! She's so stinking cute!! 

 She is stunning and crazy talented.  What a honor to get to see her sparkling personality shine!
​Good luck in your Senior year, Kylie! 

A name passed down through four generations
Homage paid to a patron saint
Cultures blended together
Each carefully thought detail
In preparation
To meet this boy
Bright blue eyes
​Fair skin
Faintest of auburn hair
All bundled up
Into this sweet little soul

I had the absolute pleasure of meeting this handsome little boy and his momma. I loved hearing about his story. Below are a few of many favorites from baby Auggie's in-home newborn session! 

     It was a beautiful wedding, full of the happiest of tears and thoughtful, personal touches on each part of the day. Friends and family from around the country traveled to Buffalo, NY to celebrate Kailey + Costa. These two are so loved! Kailey chose a strapless satin gown with a button down back and gorgeous lace detail down the train from Bliss Bridal. She was breathtaking!! Alyssa O'Mara styled Kailey's hair in a relaxed updo and the look was completed with a cathedral length veil and suede Jessica Simpson open-toe heels in pale blue. Kailey paired her dress with a delicate, gold and crystal encrusted belt and kept her jewelry simple with a gold K + C initial necklace from her mother. Grace Reedy and Frankie Gardner - Peffer did a beautiful job on everyone's makeup and each of the bridesmaids looked stunning in their unique, champagne toned dresses. The guys wore blue suits from Jos. A. Bank paired with tan leather shoes. Kailey and Costa exchanged heartfelt notes and gifted each other a pair of timeless diamond earrings and a Movado watch, that they each wore for the big day. Ellen Mathis Florals designed the most lovely bouquets and bouts. Champagne colored roses, pops of ivory and lush greens combined with oversized proteas are the flowers a girl's dreams are made of! Ellen even created a gorgeous floral head piece for the bride to wear after the ceremony. Kailey added an heirloom charm, inscripted by her late sister, to her bridal bouquet. 
     Before the ceremony, Kailey + Costa met in the Japanese Gardens, just behind The Buffalo History Museum and shared an intimate first look. You could feel the happiness radiating from them!  It was so nice for them to be able to enjoy this sweet few moments of time together as a couple, before sharing their vows in front of all of their closest family and friends. The wedding ceremony was held outdoors, overlooking the gardens.  Kailey + Costa's dear friend officiated as they were wed in front of a wooden arbor built by Costa and engraved with the couple's  initials. There was not a dry eye as cherished friends read aloud during the ceremony and Kailey and Costa recited their own vows to each other. Kailey surprised Costa by having the lyrics of song from their first dance engraved on his wedding band! 
Outdoor cocktails and rounds of Jenga followed the ceremony. The ballroom inside of the History Museum was transformed by Ellen Mathis Floral and Decor. Hundreds of floating candles and tea lights, adorned with simple greens and the scent of fresh eucalyptus provided a romantic feel. The tables and candlelight on the first and second floors looked magnificent. To get the reception started, Kailey + Costa danced to their song, "Baby I'm Yours."  After their first dance as husband and wife, humorous and emotional speeches were shared by loved ones. Steve Balesteri and the Uptown Sound provided the musical entertainment and they were amazing! Dancing went on well into the night, with guests taking breaks to visit the huge donut wall, featuring Paula's Donuts, a Buffalo favorite! 
It was the perfect wedding day for these two wonderful people. Congratulations Kailey + Costa!! We hope you enjoy every bit of your honeymoon and are jealous of all of that amazing food you are sharing on instagram!!! We wish the two of you a lifetime full of laughter and happiness together! 


Venue: The Buffalo History Museum
Dress and Veil: Bliss Bridal
Hair: Alyssa O'Mara
Makeup: Grace Reedy and Frankie Gardner - Peffer
Florals and Decor: Ellen Mathis Floral Designs
Shoes: Jessica Simpson
Suits: Jos. A. Bank
Jewelry: Reeds Jenns
Cake: The Grange Kitchen
Band: Steve Balesteri and the Uptown Sound
Catering: Oliver's Restaurant 
Donut Wall: Paula's Donuts
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan