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. 

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

     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

Lauren and Joe are the sweetest couple. Not only are they gorgeous, they are warm and caring people who impact lives and make those around them feel good. Every person at their wedding seemed to feel this same way. All  were smitten to see these two souls find each other. Their family and friends are just as incredible- so welcoming, kind, and eager to see Lauren and Joe say "I do." It was truly a beautiful day, full of joy and happy hearts all around. 
Their day began at the fabulous Hotel Henry. This iconic architectural landmark is nothing short of amazing. Every aspect about this urban resort is intriguing, stemming from its historical background when it was designed as an asylum 145 years ago. Today, the hotel boasts a unique blend of historical architecture, combined with gorgeous modern elements. With all the trees and park areas in full bloom, it was the perfect Spring location for Lauren and Joe's modern take on an elegant, garden inspired wedding. 
 Groomservice did an exceptional job for the bridal party with hair and makeup, everyone looked beautiful! The bridesmaids wore unique, floor length gowns in blush, from David's Bridal. The Maid of Honor wore the same hue but chose a lace detailed, open back design by Hayley Paige Occasions. Lauren chose the most gorgeous, Sottero and Midgley wedding gown in champagne, with a jewel encrusted bodice and layers and layers of whimsical tulle. Delicate, rose gold jewelry, strappy heels from Bebe, and a cathedral length veil by Gorgeous Compliments completed her look. Lauren looked beyond stunning! All the girls mouths literally dropped when they walked into the room and saw her in her dress! So pretty!!!
The guys were total overachievers and were ready hours before Status Limo arrived. Joe and his groomsmen looked dapper in their classic black tuxedos from The Black Tux. Joe gifted Lauren with a simple and elegant bracelet and a card with the most lovely sentiments. Lauren got Joe a beautiful black custom watch before they exchanged vows. Everyone just adores these two, more wedding day gifts were exchanged, a few tears of happiness were pushed back, and we prepared to leave for the ceremony. 
Lauren and Joe were wed in a traditional Catholic ceremony held at St. Joseph's Cathedral. The priest performed a heartfelt and interactive ceremony full of love for the couple. It was beautiful to witness.  Cocktails and the reception were back at Hotel Henry. Shutter Dream Studio may have made Joe's day when they flew the drone across the hotel courtyard for some arial shots of the wedding party. It was pretty awesome! Costamagna Design did an amazing job making all a bride's style dreams come true. A perfect, pastel colored assortment of peonies, roses and sprigs of greenery made up the bouquets and boutonnieres, complimenting the blush and rose gold wedding details and providing a Spring vibe. The ballroom looked breathtaking. It was like a romantic garden party with cascading greens and pastel florals on champagne tabletops, filled with candlelight. Collecting antique glass candle holders seems to run in the family and was part of Lauren's vision for the reception decor. Her mother collected each unique, vintage candle holder and filled the tables with these treasures. Hand scripted placecards, framed photos of the bride and groom, and a memorial table were just a few of the many personal wedding touches. Perhaps one of the highlights of the night was the highly anticipated cookie table, "A Pittsburg Tradition." Lauren's sister, Katherine, and several others, baked over 300 cookies! Beyond the cookies was a 4 tiered, vanilla wedding cake adorned with blush pink and peach flowers, created by Ohlson's Bakery. Joe had his own groom's cake, a donut cake with vanilla icing and sprinkles. Yasss! 
The speeches were thoughtful and from the heart. The love in the room for Lauren and Joe was palpable and there was barely a dry eye as everyone toasted the couple. There was so much dancing and fun at the reception. You have to love a couple with Bride and Groom beer funnels! Scroll to the end for one of our favorite wedding photos, ever!
​Seeing these two and their families come together was an amazing experience. I truly believe that Lauren and Joe will "keep dancing" and continue to make each other happy for the rest of their lives.
​Congratulations Laurent and Joe! We love you guys!!

Event Design: Costamagna Design
Venue: Hotel Henry
Chruch: St. Joseph's Cathedral
Wedding Dress: Sottero and Midgley
Veil: Gorgeous Compliments
Tuxedo: The Black Tux
Bridesmaid Dresses: David's Bridal
Maid of Honor Dress: Hayley Paige Occasions
Hair and Makeup: Groom Service Beauty and Dry Bar
Limo: Status Limosine
Cake: Ohlson's Bakery
Shoes: Bebe
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan
Video: Shutter Dream Studio

I was fortunate enough to photograph a lovely styled shoot with Taylor'd Southern Events. I believe that inspiration comes with a story, so here is my take on this portion of the styled session...

Amidst the nerves and excitement of seeing your groom and jumping into your forever life, there is an important time just before. That time you spend getting ready for the biggest day of your life, with the most important people in your life. Those girls you grew up with, whose opinions you value, who tell you if you have something in your teeth and who love you as much as the person you are about to marry. This inspirational post focuses on this intimate and exciting period of time. 

The girls are getting ready at Arundel Estate, a marvelous venue, just outside Orlando, with classic southern charm. Our bride is breathtaking. She has her best friends beside her and they are all having fun at this alluring Estate as she awaits meeting her groom on their wedding day. 

Our bride’s dress is the palest shade of blush with intricate lace detail. It is beautifully paired with a two tier, mid length veil and sleek updo. The florals are both classic and vibrant with peonies, roses and modern greens. The bridesmaids look chic and elegant in their blush pink dresses with gold accents. 

A simple sweetheart table adorned with local greens, luxurious gold tableware and a cozy bench resides on the relaxed poolside terrace. A gorgeous, custom water color designed paper suite by Scissortail Creative Co-op, added to the whimsical and lighthearted feel of the wedding day. 

Once everyone was ready, the bridesmaids were delighted to send off their bride to her romantic new beginning in a classic black ride. A brand new feeling of excitement and fun await. 

A huge thank you to this dream team of vendors:
​
Planner and Designer – Taylor'd Southern Events 
Venue – Arundel Estate
Florist – Fern and Curl Designs
Cake – Rose Hill Cakes
Vintage Rentals & Décor – Weathered and Worn Vintage Market
Reception Table & Arbor - Taylor'd Southern Events
Dishes & Flatware - Dishie Rentals
Classic Car - Cole's Classic Cars For Hire
Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist – igotodidi.com
Calligrapher – Etui & Co
Bridal Gowns & Bridesmaid Dresses - Bridal Gallery of Orlando
Menswear – Men's Warehouse
Invitation Suite - Scissortail Creative Co-op
Bride & Groom - Katelyn & Jared Haile
Solo Bride - Danielle Montalvo
Bridesmaid - Hannah Gardner
Bridesmaid - Breanna Swanson

Photographed using a mix of medium format film and digital imagery. 

So much time and energy goes into planning your wedding. What do you do when it's all over and you have hundreds of beautiful images to share? Click here for some fun ideas on how to share your own wedding photos! 

Taylor'd Southern Events had a vision for an elegant affair featuring blush pink, an assortment of beautiful greens and metallic accents. Lauren created a modern take on classic southern staples. In this inspirational shoot, a beautiful love story comes to life at a small town venue full of character and southern charm. 

Arundel Estate is set amongst eleven beautiful acres in the heart of Central Florida. The stunning two-story southern estate is like no other hotel or venue location. Surrounded by endless manicured landscapes, oak canopies, and a fragrant lavender field the estate property is simply incredible. 

Our models exemplify the modern day bride and groom with a bit of southern flare. The bride wears a romantic flowing gown, adorned with long, lace sleeves and an open back. The blooms are a lovely mix of pastel colors with a variety of unexpected textures. The color pallet, with hints of blush and pops of peach, accentuates the warmth of the South. Spring inspired pastels such as pale lavender, ivory hues and subtle greens provide a whimsical feel. 

A small tablescape takes its cue from the grandeur of the venue with metallic candelabras, gold accents and delicate flower sprigs. Greens in the centerpiece are pulled from the surrounding landscapes. 

Our real life couple share an uncompromising love for one another that make this story all the more endearing.  A polite, charming, romanticism between two people that will last forever.

I find film so dreamy. I'm encouraged in this learning journey as many of the images below were captured on film. 

Thank you to all of the amazing vendors who brought this styled shoot together:
Planner and Designer – Taylor'd Southern Events 
Venue – Arundel Estate
Florist – Fern and Curl Designs
Cake – Rose Hill Cakes
Vintage Rentals & Décor – Weathered and Worn Vintage Market
Reception Table & Arbor - Taylor'd Southern Events
Dishes & Flatware - Dishie Rentals
Classic Car - Cole's Classic Cars For Hire
Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist – igotodidi.com
Calligrapher – Etui & Co
Bridal Gowns & Bridesmaid Dresses - Bridal Gallery of Orlando
Menswear – Men's Warehouse
Invitation Suite - Veraly & Company
Bride & Groom - Katelyn & Jared Haile
Solo Bride - Danielle Montalvo
Bridesmaid - Hannah Gardner
Bridesmaid - Breanna Swanson

I met Ally back in 2008 when I traveled from Orlando to Rochester for sales training. We were in the same training class! We hung out in Rochester for a few weeks, had a ton of fun, and have kept in touch through social media. We were pregnant last year at the same time and our babies are just a few weeks apart in age. I was ecstatic when Ally messaged me about photographing her wedding! Alicia and Todd are incredible people. They have a grand total of 7 kids, ranging from 19 years to 1 year. Yes, that is not a typo. This day was the most incredible union of two amazing families. It was so emotional for Ally and Todd and for their kids. Everyone was so happy, crying tears of joy. It was very sweet and everyone's makeup stayed put! Yes!!! 

The day began with hair and makeup at Groom Service in the Hotel at the Lafayette. Ally's hair and makeup were gorgeous and paired with her champagne colored, embellished gown from The Jacqueline Shoppe, she was simply stunning. The girls wore floor length, multi colored dresses from Lulu's that were beautiful. The guys were looking sharp in suits of various shade of gray and the baby adorned a cap and suspenders. I mean...can he get any cuter?! 

Ally and Todd wrote their own vows and the intimate ceremony of family and their closest friends was very emotional. I'm not sure there was a dry eye in the room! You could feel the true love and deep devotion between them. It was a beautiful moment as all of the kids listened to their parents describe their feelings and how they planned to spend the rest of their lives together as a family. They looked on with heartfelt smiles and weepy eyes. Ally's daughter, Kenzie, sang the song for their first dance and it was magical. Then, Ally and her son danced as he told just how happy he was for her. It was so touching. As a mother of boys, this really pulled on all my heart strings. I was crying behind my camera, witnessing this moment of unconditional love and happiness. 

Congratulations Alicia and Todd! You did it!!! I am so honored to have been there to document your amazing day and I wish you a lifetime of happiness together! 

Venue: Hotel at the Lafayette
Hair and Makeup: Groomservice Beauty Bar
Dress: The Jacqueline Shoppe
Girls Dresses: Lulus
Rings:  Bomi Jewelers

Mary Catherine and Alex will be getting married in Tuscany in a few short weeks. Before the big day, they knew they needed to have a civil ceremony in the U.S. Since they were coming all the way from London, why not have all the wedding festivities during one trip?! With family in NJ and Buffalo, they somehow managed it! Engagement Party in NJ, check. Bridal shower in Buffalo, check. Legally become husband and wife, check. Next stop, a fairy tale wedding in the Italian countryside! Living the dream, these two! Congratulations Mary Catherine and Alex! It was a beautiful celebration and I was so happy to be a part of it. I hope you have the most wonderful wedding in Tuscany and I wish you a lifetime of happiness together! Ciao!!

We may have a family crush. The Barrick's and the McDonald's are just the best, Mary and I felt like part of the family. Everyone was so nice, thoughtful, fun...and they all love to dance! This wedding was like a reunion. We got to see so many friends from weddings we have photographed over the last couple of years. It was really so much fun to be there, watching the celebration of love between two amazing people. 

Catherine and Devon are such a great couple. Their family and friends love them to pieces and being around either of them is sure to bring fun and laughter. There is no doubt in my mind that Catherine and Devon will have fun together for the rest of their lives! Devon, being the thoughtful guy that he is, surprised Catherine with the sweetest card and a brand new pair of J. Crew sunglasses she had been eyeing for their honeymoon! Nice way to start the day!! 

Catherine's bridal gown was so gorgeous. It was a whimsical combination of lace and tulle, with a plunging neckline and a delicate criss-cross back. She paired her wedding dress with a cathedral length veil and crystal earrings for a romantic look. Catherine changed up her attire with an earring swap after the church ceremony for a more laid back look. Fawn and Fox Salon created a lovely twisted updo that paired wonderfully with the dress. Catherine looked incredible! The light pink roses and periwinkle blue hydrangea bouquets by Maureen's were the perfect accent to the crepe bridesmaid dresses in Arctic Ice. Jaime did a fantastic job with all of the girls makeup, everyone looked so, so pretty! Devon was looking sharp in his navy and black, custom made suit, complete with his initials underneath the collar. The groomsmen wore matching navy suits in a slightly darker hue that went beautifully with the paler shade of the bridesmaid dresses. 

Catherine and Devon were married in a traditional Catholic ceremony at Catherine's childhood church, St. John the Baptist. I was pleased to see Father Van Dyke, the priest who married my husband and I, and a favorite teacher of many Canisius guys! It was pouring rain during the wedding ceremony and as soon as it was time for the new Mr. & Mrs. to walk out of the church, the rain miraculously stopped and the sun peeked out! Perfect timing for a celebratory exit!

Devon proposed near the Peace Bridge, so we headed over to Bird Island to get a few photos with the Peace Bridge in the background. It was a quick stop with 25mph wind gusts right on the water. It was wild! We got it done and headed right over to the hidden gem of Buffalo reception venues, the Twentieth Century Club. This place is right next to Tempo, but most people don't even know it exists. It's a women's club that rivals the authenticity of the other well known clubs in Buffalo. The interior is ornate and a bit eclectic and the ballroom is astonishing. We took a few more photos of the wedding party in the lush garden area and on the gorgeous patio. Catherine and Devon were lucky to have a cool day in the middle of August and the weather ended up being just perfect for outdoor cocktails in the garden area. 

The views from the main level of the Twentieth Century Club were picturesque, with the ballroom elegantly decorated and all the windows open to the courtyard, overlooking the guests enjoying their time together. The sit down dinner was served in the grand ballroom with large, arched windows and an elaborate chandelier. The white tables were surrounded by gold chairs, and adorned with ivory hydrangeas, pale pink baby roses and a touch of greenery. The white table numbers were in gold frames with a single sprig of green foliage in the background. Simple and elegant. The room was stunning and all the details were gorgeous! 

There were five speeches that were both thoughtful and hysterical. With heartfelt tears, followed by laughter, you could feel the love for Catherine and Devon from those that are closest to them. After dinner, came the dancing. This is what this couple was waiting for all day! The music was good. Really good. Catherine and Devon had a song request piece in their invitations, so they had a great list of songs ready to be played.  Andy, from Toy Bros, was on point and the dance floor was never empty. The newlyweds were the first ones on the dance floor and never left. Everyone was out there dancing, even the grandparents! It was such a beautiful celebration and an incredibly fun day! Thank you, Catherine and Devon for trusting us to capture your special day. It was truly and honor to be a part of your wedding! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. McDonald!!!


​Dress: M.A. Carr
​Shoes: Dolce Vita
Veil: Bel Aire Veil
Jewelry: Scherer's Jewelers
​Cake: Dessert Deli
DJ: Toy Bros
Venue: Twentieth Century Club
Church: St John the Baptist
Bridesmaid Dresses: Paper Crown
Florals: Maureen's Wholesale Flower Market
​Makeup: Jaime Ruggiero
Hair: Fawn & Fox Salon
Videographer: Video Portraits WNY

There is something to be said about very large wedding parties. When you have 20 people standing up in your wedding, you have a lot of people that love you! For Caroline and Alex, these people are either family, or friends they have known through all walks of life. These are friends they have known from grammar school or even moved with around the country. Alex has a tight circle of friends that he grew up with in California and a whole other set of friends that he has been close with now, for a decade while living in Chicago. Caroline has remained close with the girls from her days at St. Mark's School, Nardin, and Fredonia.  Caroline and many of her girlfriends from Buffalo, followed each other to Chicago and have been happily living there for years. It's like their whole Buffalo crew just relocated to the windy city. Unbelievable! That being said, you can imagine what this reunion was like for Caroline and Alex. So much fun, so many laughs! And lots of singing. This crew was not afraid to sing it loud, sing it proud! 

Caroline and Alex's romantic and chic wedding day began at the new Hotel Henry. This impressive urban resort has been renewed from the old Buffalo State Asylum for the Insane. The exterior of the building is incredible with two iconic towers that have been Buffalo landmarks since the late 1800s. The interior has been restored with modern renovations giving the hotel a stylish and contemporary feel. There are several lounge areas throughout the interior and an open concept restaurant centrally located in the hotel. The resort features all of the exclusive amenities you would find at your typical upscale hotel, but the restored architecture throughout the building is awe-inspiring. From the large wood beams, rustic metal pipes and gigantic pulley systems, there so many interesting caveats throughout this building. 

Hair and makeup started in Caroline's suite which was a gorgeous loft with modern accents. The 10 bridesmaids looked stunning in their long, chiffon gowns in ice blue. Caroline looked absolutely gorgeous in her off-the-shoulder ivory gown with button down back and lace embellishments. This breathtaking dress was paired beautifully with a sophisticated updo and cascading bouquet. I am obsessed with the colors in this wedding. I love that very pale blue, and the simple but oh, so elegant mix of ivory and white details. Maureen's did a phenomenal job of bringing Caroline's vision for the florals to life with a blend of white and ivory, accented with an array of pretty greens. The guys looked dapper in classic black tuxedos with black bow ties and white pocket squares. They accessorized themselves individually with on trend sunglasses. 

Caroline and Alex were married at St. Mark's Church in North Buffalo with a traditional Catholic ceremony. They had a lovely ceremony and a wonderful opera rendition was performed by a male/female duo after communion. This song was so beautiful that the whole congregation applauded when it was over.  After the wedding ceremony, it was back to Hotel Henry for a few quick photos with the wedding party and cocktail hour. The ballroom had a romantic vibe with a fusion of textures in ivory, gold and the glow of candlelight. Caroline's bridesmaid actually wrote all of the calligraphy for the invitations and escort cards for the reception. The gold script was so lovely! The elegant table decor featured tall candelabras with flowers and low florals to add depth and dimension to the room.  The ivory cake was simple, yet stunning with gold and ivory rose accents. The bride and groom had their own sweetheart table just beyond the dance floor with an open view of the band and all of their wedding guests. 

This wedding was all about the dancing and the party. And what a party it was! The new Mr. & Mrs. Soulier were introduced and playfully cut their wedding cake. The cake cutting was followed by some heartfelt and hilarious speeches from the father of the bride, maid of honor, two best men, and a blessing from the bride's uncle. Caroline was summoned by her sister to sing aloud the theme song from the musical "Annie" during her speech and, thus "The sun will come out tomorrow..." was happily sung! After dinner, Party of Nine got the dancing started with Caroline and Alex's first dance as husband and wife. It was a sweet and emotional dance to "I Can't Help Falling in Love With You". All of their friends stood up and gathered around the dance floor cheering them on. They sang and laughed and kissed. Their love for each other was palpable! 

The father/daughter dance really got the party started. There was already a small crowd around the dance floor and then "Sweet Caroline" began to play. You can't help but get up and sing along to that song! The bride and her father were having such a good time dancing and singing together. He lifted her into the air and she waved to all their "fans." It was awesome! The mother/son dance was equally as great on a more sentimental level. Alex is an only child and his mother held on to him like she didn't want to ever let  him go. I cried behind the camera and am crying again just thinking about it. At the end of the song, she brought Caroline on to the dance floor and handed Alex over to her. It was a very touching moment. Once the music started, the dance floor was packed and it never slowed up. Caroline hand picked each song the band performed and she certainly knew her audience. Everyone was dancing all night long. Caroline even got up on stage and sang with the band, it was great! This was probably one of the most fun weddings ever! Congratulations Caroline and Mike! Mary and I are so very honored to have been a part of your wedding and we wish you a lifetime of happiness together!!

​Dress: Kelly Faetanini
​Makeup: Jaime Ruggiero
​Hair: I DuPretty
Calligraphy: Laura Georger
Shoes: Nina NYC
​Jewelry: James & Sons
Veil: Etsy
​Cake: Sweet Beginnings
Venue: Hotel Henry
​Ceremony: St. Mark's Church
​Bridesmaid Dresses: Amsale
Florals: Maureen's Wholesale Flower Market 
​Band: Party of Nine
Video: Anland Media