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. 

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

Caitlin and Mike are just great people. When you are around them, you feel incredibly welcomed and comfortable. They are always laughing and being around these two is just fun! The same is true about being around all of their family and friends. From the minute I stepped foot into Caitlin's parents' home, everyone was so friendly and accommodating. You can tell everyone in Caitlin's bridal party just adores her. Their reaction to her getting ready, all of her beautiful wedding details and her stepping into her dress was that of pure joy. Each and every one of Caitlin's bridesmaids expressed so much excitement for Caitlin and her husband to be. Even with the absolute downpour that was happening outside, everyone remained so calm and optimistic about how the day (and weather) would play out. 

Caitlin had the most beautiful wedding dress. Both her Matron of Honor and her Maid of Honor described " that dress is so Her!". She selected a gorgeous, form fitting gown with crystal embellished capped sleeves. Caitlin chose a cathedral length veil to complete her look and it was stunning! The Donna Morgan sequin gowns in rose gold were so pretty and the color looked amazing on each of the bridesmaids. Maureen's did a fabulous job with the florals. Beautiful bouquets filled with fluffy Ranunculus and miniature roses in champagne were the perfect accent to the color scheme Caitlin chose. Yes, I had to look up those flower names!! 

The guys started their day with a catered brunch at one of Mike's favorite local bars, The Swanee House. After kicking back in the morning, they quickly got ready to roll on over to St. Joseph's Cathedral where the festivities would begin at 12:00 sharp. All the guys sported tan Banana Republic loafers, which was a nice compliment to their navy suits. I have to give it to these guys, somehow, they arrived on time and everyone was wearing their rose boutonnieres come ceremony time! 

Mike and Caitlin tied the knot with a traditional Catholic wedding ceremony at one of the most beautiful churches in Buffalo, St. Joseph Cathedral. Noah and Olivia were adorable walking together as ring bearer and flower girl.  Little Ava made it down the aisle and she knew she did a good job. She started clapping for herself and wanted everyone to join in! Mike got a little emotional when he saw Caitlin walk down the aisle and Caitlin was holding back tears when her father gave her away. It was all very sweet. After a lovely ceremony and some family photos on the wet grass, there were finally clear skies above. We decided to head to the rooftop of Caitlin and Mike's building for some wedding photos. What a good choice. They have some unbelievable views of the city and the colors were amazing. That rose gold and navy combo just popped up there, with all of Buffalo in the background! It may have been so windy that my hair tie flew out, but the wedding party hair stayed in place. Kudos to Liz Jackson and Diane Wright!! I'm so excited about those pictures up there. Yes, you can tell its windy, but it was fun! Apparently, it wouldn't be Caitlin and Mike's day without some form of hockey. After the rooftop, the limo went to the Harborside Arena to check in on the 11 Day Power Play hockey game and the entire wedding party made the news! 

Cocktail hour was at Asbury Hall in downtown Buffalo. There were nearly 30 tables, adorned with white hydrangeas and gold floral accents, candle light and rose gold table numbers. The bridal party was announced and the newlyweds cut their elegant three tier cake from Muscoreili's bakery and played nice as they fed it to each other. They went right into their sweet first dance to a song by Thomas Rhett called "Die a Happy Man", sung acoustically by Steve Balesteri. It was beautiful as they laughed and sang to each other.  This adorable couple had several heart felt speeches made in their honor. These emotional speeches made everyone both laugh and cry. The highlight of the reception decor was the edible portion! A huge dessert table featuring delectable treats baked by the mother of the bride and the bride's aunt. This dessert bar was a colossal success, the guests loved it! You know how the rest of the night went...Dancing, dancing, dancing! Everyone had a blast on the dance floor! 

Caitlin and Mike, thank for the opportunity to capture your special day. We had a phenomenal time meeting your wonderful family and friends. We felt so welcomed and had a great time celebrating with you guys! We wish you a lifetime of happiness together!! Congratulations!

​Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan
Wedding Dress: Bliss Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses: Donna Morgan
Earrings: Kate Spade
Bridal Shoes: INC International
​Hair: Liz Jackson and Diane Wright
Makeup: Blush Makeup and Hairstyling
Men's Footware: Banana Republic
Ceremony: St. Joseph Cathedral
Venue: Asbury Hall
​Cake: Muscoreili's Bakery
Band: Steve Balesteri
Florals: Maureen's Wholesale Flower Market

This love story began when Chelsey was 16 years old and started working as a camp counselor at the YMCA. She met Peter and his two sisters while working there and the rest is history. Ten years later, Chelsey and Peter remain inseparable!

As his friends affectionately describe...Peter is slightly obsessed with Disney. So, it was fitting that their fairy tale engagement would happen at Walt Disney World. Chelsey incorporated just a touch of that Disney spirit into their big day with her Disney branded, "I Do" shoes and Mickey Mouse socks for Peter! This added a bit of playfulness to the gorgeous blush, white and navy color pallet selected for the wedding party.  I just love these colors! I also like the unique styles the bridesmaids chose for their pale pink dresses. Their beautiful gowns combined with the blush, ivory and greens of the florals was perfection! Let's talk about Chelsey's dress for a minute. Gorgeous, right?! It was not exactly her first pick. She actually had purchased another dress and suddenly decided it was not 'the one'. Gasp....!! Bliss Bridal to rescue. She found this lace embellished stunner, paired it with a mid length veil, and never looked back! It was obviously the right decision, Chelsey was absolutely glowing all day long!!

One of my favorite parts of Chelsey + Peter's wedding day was when Chelsey read the note Peter had written to her. She actually read it aloud so Paul could get the audio and we all got to hear his heartfelt message. It was such a sweet and emotional moment and I love how he actually created his own greeting card with their favorite saying "Best Day Ever" on the back! So, so sweet! 

Chelsey and Peter sealed the deal in a traditional Catholic ceremony at St. Thomas Aquinas church in South Buffalo. They will becoming SB residents in the very near future, so we swung by their brand new home to get a picture with the SOLD sign. Their first home - how exciting!! Then of course, we had to get a picture in front of the YMCA, where it all began. After that, we were off to Delaware Park for a few photos, then it was party time at Pearl Street Bar and Grill. The reception room looked charming with twinkle lights and white hydrangeas offset with rustic touches like wine barrels and wood centerpieces. They included just the right amount of lace and candle light to soften the industrial feel of the room. 

Chelsey and Peter's first dance left us speechless. It was seriously, one of the sweetest first dances I have witnessed to Ed Sheeran's "Tenerife Sea". They sang every word to each other with such passion and conviction. It was as if no one else was in the room. I think I will always remember their first dance when I hear that song, it was so incredibly sincere. 

Chelsey and Peter, you are the nicest couple and have the most wonderful families. Mary and I are so honored that we were able to witness your love for each other and capture these memories. Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Evaldi!! 

Florals: Maureen's Wholesale Flowers
Ceremony: Saint Thomas Aquinas
Music: Stephen Schottman
Venue: Pearl Street Grill
Video: Monarch Videography
Cake: Ohlson's Bakery 
Rings: Graeber Jewelers
​Bridal Gown: Bliss Bridal
Veil: Bel Aire
Bridesmaid Dress: Adriana Pappel, David's Bridal
Hair/Makeup: Bella A'more

Lauren and Mike are one of the funniest couples I have ever met. We knew this wedding would be a blast and it did not disappoint! With a wedding party of 28, you know that Lauren and Mike are loved by many. They each have a magnetic personality and as a couple, they have a charisma that you just want to be around. On their wedding day, that energy radiated throughout everyone. There were heartfelt moments with tears (just a few tears, rule of the day was no crying!) and so many laughs throughout this special day.

The bride's whimsical lace and tulle gown was from MA Carr Bridal in Orchard Park. For hair it was long, laid back waves for the beyond beautiful bride and unique styles for each of her bridesmaids.  Jaime Ruggiero did an amazing job, as always, on everyone's makeup. All of the girls were just stunning in their palest pink chiffon Donna Morgan dresses. They were all ready and dancing in the bride's Tamarack Club condo before the limo bus picked them up for the traditional Catholic ceremony at Holy Name of Mary just down the road in downtown Ellicottville, NY. After the ceremony, close family and friends were invited back to Uncle Vinny's amazing hillside home for a pre-cocktail party with spectacular views of the entire ski village area. This cocktail party before the cocktail hour, seems to be a new trend! 

More festivities began with the cocktail hour at Holiday Valley Lodge when Rich Variety Productions got the reception started and the wedding party made an entertaining entrance. The bride and groom danced over to cut their four tiered, monogrammed cake that was a delicious creation by Dessert Deli and Jeff from Custom Video Memories captured everything on video. The speeches were absolutely hysterical and had everyone roaring.  Maureen's Wholesale Flower Market created the bride's vibrant bouquet with pops of magenta and light pink. Pale pink and ivory blooms were chosen for the bridesmaids, along with the lovely ivory hydrangea and baby's breath centerpieces that adorned each of the 39 tables at the elegant reception. Lauren and Mike even had a singer performing Frank Sinatra classics during their cocktail hour and the evening was complete with a visit to the outdoor patio area where a Cigar Roller was rolling custom cigars for all of the guests while they enjoyed taking in the magnificent views of Holiday Valley. The bride and groom were truly the life of this party and that showed on the dance floor when they were hoisted into the air by all of their friends. This crew loves to dance and the music was amazing, Lauren and Mike took a few turns spinning with the DJ and everyone was dancing and having a great time! 

A huge thank you to Mary O'Sullivan for being my second shooter and for all of your help and gorgeous captures! Congratulations to Lauren + Mike, we were so happy to be a part of your big day. Wishing the two of you a beautiful life full of fun and laughter!