It was a long time coming for this 2020 wedding that was rescheduled due to Covid. I think everyone would agree, it was well worth the wait! 

Krissy and Brian had such an incredible day. The girls started the day getting ready at Krissy's parents home. Hair and makeup came right to them and had everyone looking amazing. The bridesmaids wore different styled floor length gowns in pale blush. Krissy chose a romantic, form fitting Essense of Australia wedding gown from Bliss Bridal. She was a dream in this sexy dress with French lace and an open back! So gorgeous, her friends kept calling her Barbie! Krissy and her dad had the sweetest daddy daughter first look and her bridesmaids gifted her a beautiful memory book and the last page was a handwritten not from Brian. It was really so sweet, she teared up reading it. Brian and the guys got ready at his house. They looked great in their navy suits from Men's Wearhouse. 

Krissy and Brian were wed in a traditional Catholic ceremony at St Christopher Church in Tonawanda, NY. It was a love filled ceremony and you could see the joy in their faces! After the ceremony, they had a bubble exit from the church and we did a few family photos outdoors. The bridal party took the limo bus over to Tifft Nature Preserve for some more photos and it was off to 500 Pearl for the real party. The reception took place in the Forbes Theater. It was beautiful. Every detail was carefully selected and had a touch of Buffalove. Flowers by Johnny created gorgeous arrangements of hydrangeas and white and blush roses that complimented the girls bouquets perfectly. 

The speeches and dancing were the main events at this wedding. We knew it was going to be fun! We heard thoughtful and witty sentiments from the matrons of honor, the best man and a surprise speech from the groom's sisters. Everyone was laughing at the funny stories and smiling warmly while listening to shared memories. Krissy and Brian are so loved. After the speeches, we witnessed all of the sweet first dances. Brian literally swept Krissy off her feet and dipped her at the end of their first dance which was met with many whoops and cheers. Once dinner was completed, Shine Band started playing and everyone was on the dance floor. I don't know if I have ever shared so many dance pictures but this crew knows how to have a good time. Guests were dancing and singing, doing the worm, limbo, the Dirty Dancing lift...you name it..it was awesome! Everyone had the best time!

Congratulations to the new Mr. + Mrs. Sultana! We are so happy for the two of you. You and your family and friends are so warm and kind.  We felt so honored to be a part of your amazing day. 

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Thank you to this wonderful team of vendors who helped make the day perfect! 

Dress designer: Essense of Australia
Dress boutique: Bliss Bridal
Florist: Flowers by Johnny
Ceremony: St. Christopher Church
Venue:  500 Pearl
Entertainment: Shine Band
Video: Black Horse Videography
Cake: Village Bake Shoppe
Bridesmaids: Birdy Grey
Groom: Mens Wearhouse
Stationary: Minted
Makeup: The Beauty Atelier (Nicole Morris)
Hair: Designer’s Edge Hair Salon Shannon Infante
Bride's rings: Yadav 
Jewelry: NY International Style
Groom’s ring: Scanlon Jewelers
Photographer: Rooted Love Photography
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan

Brittani and Amanda of Buds Flower Co recently held a pop-up flower shop in Lake Nona. They took over the former space of Jacq & Jack across from the Boxi Park area for Valentine's Day weekend. I had the opportunity to stop by on Friday while the girls were setting up and take a few branding photos. They transformed the coffee shop into a floral haven. The space was covered floor to ceiling with an array of beautiful vases and colorful flowers. All arrangements were available for purchase for Valentine's Day weekend. They also created a flower bar, where customers were able to make  custom arrangements for themselves or to gift that special someone. It was so much fun to watch Brittani and Amanda work their magic, precisely cutting each stem, arranging flowers just right and taking care of each customer with the biggest smile on their faces. If you haven't heard of Buds Flower Co, you should definitely check them out! They grow a variety of their flowers in Amanda's garden, right in Lake Nona, FL. They also use sustainably sourced flowers and offer custom arrangements and a flower delivery service to Lake Nona residents. I have had the pleasure of seeing their work first hand, and if you love unique and gorgeous flowers, you will not be disappointed! 

This beach elopement at LaPlaya Beach and Gulf Resort was so beautiful. The sun peeked out from behind the clouds over this stretch of beach as it rained all around us.  Trinity Event Rentals created a simple and elegant arbor on the beach with ivory chiffon draping around the top and sides with gorgeous florals by Botanicals on the Gulf hung from above. It was perfect for this intimate wedding! Katherine and Ray were married years ago and after being separated for the last three years, they found their way back to each other. They recited their own vows to each other in a unique and heartfelt ceremony. Tears of joy were shed as they reaffirmed their deep love for one another. It was so sweet!

Congratulations Katherine + Ray!
I am so honored to have been able to document this special day for you!! 


Thank you to all of the wonderful vendors that made this day so memorable! 
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Venue: LaPlaya Beach and Gulf Resort
Florist: Botanicals on the Gulf
Styling: Trinity Event Rentals
Dining: Baleen Naples
Photographer: Rooted Love Photography

Meet me at the end of the earth....

I was recently a part of a beautiful beach elopement styled shoot in Buffalo, NY.  The weather forecast showed the rain was supposed to hold out for us but as soon as everyone was finished setting up, tiny wet droplets began to fall from the sky. Most of this shoot was photographed in the rain! You can actually see how hard the rain was coming down in several of the photos. I am so happy we were still able got some gorgeous images of everyone's hard work.  And our models, they were truly amazing and totally unfazed by getting soaking wet. They were also willing to walk along rocks and through the water which was an absolute dream!

​​I am completely honored to have worked alongside such creative and talented vendors.

Thank you all for making this day happen! 

Wedding Dress Boutique: M.A. Carr Bridal
Dress Designer: Martin Thornburg
Styling: Quaint Rentals
Florals: April Spencer Floral Design
Hair and Makeup: Hair by Kayla Victoria
Models: Kayla Tomasello and Conor McDermott
Gray Dress: ASOS
Photographer: Rooted Love Photography
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan
​Film Lab: Photovision

Lauren + Alex's wedding day was nothing short of incredible. I remember talking to Lauren about how she and Alex met and their story could be the basis of a Lifetime movie. Lauren went in for a routine dental visit and there was a new dentist...Alex! Due to obvious reasons, their wedding plans were revised, and changed again four weeks before the big day. With a communal effort, everything fell into place beautifully to celebrate these two amazing humans. Lauren's parents backyard was transformed into a festive wonderland and the couple made sure to sprinkle in some lovely traditions from Alex's Ukranian heritage throughout the day.

The girls started the morning in style, getting ready in the Presidential suite at the Marriott Harborcenter in downtown Buffalo, NY. The view of the Buffalo waterfront was spectacular! Lauren, her bridesmaids and some family members hung out, drank mimosas and got ready for the big day. Everyone was super relaxed as the weather went from pouring rain to the sun peeking out behind the clouds just before it was time to leave. Jaime Ruggiero had everyone looking absolutely gorgeous and Dan O'Brien, Kristen Franco, and Kelly Hausler created the most beautiful hairstyles! Everyone looked amazing! 

Lauren chose a simple and elegant off the shoulder, Vagabond Alpha gown with button detailing down the back from Lovely Bride Rochester. She paired it with a low bun and loose curls. Lauren completed her wedding look with nude Badgley Mischka satin and crystal heels and a custom clutch made from her mother's wedding dress. She looked stunning! The bridesmaids wore unique dresses to fit their individual styles and all were in the champagne, ivory and beige color scheme. They looked so good!! The bride's bouquet was beautiful with white and ivory blooms and greenery created by Williams Florist. The bridesmaids' bouquets complimented their dresses perfectly with white roses, pale pink blossoms and sprigs of greenery. Lauren and her father share a special bond. This was evident throughout the entire day. They shared a daddy daughter first look in Lauren's hotel suite just before the ceremony that was incredibly sweet and memorable. 

Lauren and Alex were wed at Saint Michael Church in a traditional Catholic ceremony where the priest shared a thoughtful and personalized homily with the couple and their families. To celebrate and incorporate the groom's heritage, a traditional Ukrainian crowning ceremony was included. After the ceremony, the wedding party headed over to a neighbor's property for some photos. It was as if we had entered into an enchanted garden! After some quick photos, the Limo bus headed to the reception. Lauren and Alex had not seen how her parent's backyard had been transformed. To say they were surprised would be an understatement! First, they were greeted by their pup, Mosely, who sported a navy bowtie for the occasion. After a few loving licks, they continued down the white hydrangea lined driveway into the entrance of the their wedding reception. Guests were welcomed into the white tent decorated with lush greenery and twinkling patio lights. The first tent contained a bar and candlelight adorned hightop tables for cocktail hour. The second tent contained the most beautiful decor ready for a lavish dinner party. Every little detail was taken into consideration. Guests names and table numbers were written in calligraphy on parchment with gold accents. Multiple arrangements of white and pale pink florals sat on each table surrounded in candlelight. Menus were placed at each table setting and accented with a simple green sprig. Everything was gorgeous! 

Lauren and Alex had their first dance as husband and wife while Vin DeRosa played. Lauren's father thanked everyone for coming to the wedding and explained how everything came together in just 4 weeks after many changes from the original wedding planning. With the help of many family members and friends, they had created the most beautiful wedding space in their backyard. It is incredible how beautifully everyone and everything came together. Lauren's father, her two brothers and Alex's sister all gave such warm and heartfelt speeches. They had everyone both laughing and crying. Lauren and Alex are two of the most selfless people. There is so much love between these two families and everyone was so excited that Lauren and Alex had found each other. 

Oliver's catered dinner featuring perogies, seabass and NY strip steak. Everything looked delicious and guests enjoyed a fun Affogato Bar after dinner. Lauren and her father shared a lovely first dance and Alex and his mother danced to a Ukrainian song full of twirls and laughs. Then, everyone got on the dance floor as the band played favorites from all generations! Threads of Ivory got it all on video and we can't wait to see it! 

Sometimes plans must change. Some things are out of our control. This was a situation where two people who are so in love, found a way to celebrate their marriage in the middle of a pandemic. Their family and friends came together asking how they could help and in the end, created something extraordinary. This is a day that Lauren and Alex will always remember. A beautiful light in a strange year.

We are so honored to have been a small part of your story. We hope we served you well, and please know, that you two have inspired us! Lauren and Alex, you are surrounded by so much love.
​Best wishes for a wonderful life together!  

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Thank you to the amazing team of vendors who helped to make this day so special! 

Wedding Planner: Marilynn Militello
Hotel: Marriott Harborcenter
Florist: Williams Florist
Makeup:  Jaime Ruggiero
Hair: Daniel O'Brien, Kristen Franco, Kelly Hausler
Dress Designer: Vagabond 
Dress Boutique: Lovely Bride Rochester
Shoes: Badgley Mischka
​Rings: Reeds Jenss
Groom: Bonobos
Invitations: Rust Belt Love
Ceremony: Saint Michael Church
Catering: Oliver's
Band: Vin DeRosa Music
Video: Threads of Ivory
Photography: Rooted Love Photography
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan

Shelbi and Shane share an intense love, for one another, and for those around them. This love was evident on their wedding day. You can easily see it in the way they look at each other, they are so in love. Shelbi and Shane are the type of couple that others gravitate toward. Kind, sincere, welcoming and fun. They were surrounded by so many people who absolutely love them both individually and as a couple. 
Shelbi and Shane's wedding celebration was beautiful day that began at Bending Branch Ranch, a lovely venue with an adorable  cottage where all the girls got ready. Gloss Bridal & Beauty Bar did hair and makeup for everyone and the ladies looked amazing! Shelbi stunned in long, loose waves that highlighted the open back of her form fitting lace and satin gown from One and Only Bridal Boutique.  She added a mid length veil with beaded edges and a beaded barrette to her hair to complete her wedding day look. Shelbi was absolute perfection! The bridesmaids were gorgeous in their long taupe, chiffon gowns from Lulus.  Everyone carried bouquets by Kelly Shannon Floral full of fluffy white blooms and fresh greenery. Shelbi's bouquet was sprinkled with her favorite, sunflowers, as an homage to their engagement. Shane proposed to her in a field of sunflowers! The groom and his crew wore navy suits and taupe ties. They hung out and played pool at the venue as they awaited the start of the ceremony. One of my favorite things about this wedding is that Shane's dad was his Best Man. They truly are best friends!
Shelbi and Shane's wedding ceremony took place on a wooden altar between two large oak trees just as daylight was coming to an end. There ceremony was both sweet and emotional with many working to fight back tears. Cocktails were served immediately after the ceremony in the brand new wooden barn of Bending Branch Ranch.  Wooden center pieces from a 16 year old oak tree cut down from Shelbi's parents home were surrounded by white blooms, baby's breath, greenery and candlelight. The interior of the barn was simple and elegant. Gold chargers adorned with navy napkins topped the white linen tables and each guest was gifted a wooden monogrammed coaster. The reception began with Shelbi and Shane's first dance as husband and wife. He sang to her as they held tightly to each other. There was hardly a dry eye in the audience! The father/daughter and mother/son dances were equally as sweet and emotional. There is just so much love between these two families!  A four course dinner was catered by Whatever's Clever Cuisine. After dinner, the party really got started with DJ Live Productions.  This group knows how to party! Everyone was out on the dance floor, no matter the age!  These families know how to throw a party! 

Shelbi and Shane, your wedding day was so amazing! Mary and I sincerely enjoyed getting to know the two of you as a couple and your sweet family and friends. We hope you had a wonderful time in the Turks and Caicos! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Godwin!! 

A huge thank you to all of the fantastic vendors who made this couple's dream a reality! 

Venue: Bending Branch Ranch
Dress: One and Only Bridal Boutique
Hair and Makeup: Gloss Bridal & Beauty Bar
Bridesmaids: Lulus
Florals: Kelly Shannon Floral
Planning and Catering: Whatever's Clever Cuisine
DJ: DJ Live Productions
Invitations: Shutterfly
Photography: Rooted Love Photography
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan

I have known Jessica for years. She is one of the most sweet and creative people I know. She seems to have found her perfect match in Mike and I am over the moon happy for the two of them!
Jessica + Mike chose to have a small, intimate wedding outside of Orlando, but not too far away.  The Cedar House Inn, an adorable bed and breakfast in St. Augustine, offered the quaint feel they were looking for in Florida's most historical city. Jessica and Mike hung out for the afternoon and were later joined by immediate family for their wedding ceremony and to celebrate afterwards.
Jessica chose to wear a gorgeous ivory tulle empire waist dress with intricate beading from Anthropologie's BHLDN line. Makeup by Caroline Throneberg and loose curls accentuated the romantic feel of Jessica's dress. A delicate flower crown and mid length veil completed her wedding day look. She was a dream! Jessica had a hand in creating her own lavender and white bouquet, complete with cascading greens, her flower crown, and veil. Everything was stunning! Mike chose a tailored navy suit with lavender accents. They looked amazing and were really so sweet together! 
I love all weddings, but there is something about the intimate setting of an elopement that is very emotional and truly special. I hope I did you guys proud and am so honored that I was able to be a part of this memorable day! Congratulations Jessica + Mike!! So excited for you two!! 

Venue: The Cedar House Inn
Hair: The Hive Beauty Bar
Makeup: ​Caroline Throneberg
Dress: BHLDN

Micaela and James are really the sweetest couple. They are deeply loved by their many friends and family members. This Christmas wedding was beautiful on so many levels. The church, the venue, but most of all, the love that Micaela and Jamie share and the reflection of that love shining back on them from those closest to them. 
Micaela and the girls began the day with hair and makeup by Morcelle Salon and Little Lou Beauty at the Buffalo Club. They all looked gorg and if you want to feel like royalty in the Queen City, this is it! From the dark woodwork covered walls, heirloom paintings, awe inspiring hallways topped with golden chandeliers and massive staircases, this venue is the epitome of historical elegance. Micaela chose her wedding date because the Club would be decorated for Christmas. The holiday decorations are something to be seen! Lovely Christmas trees, wreaths, strands of garland and white twinkle lights adorned every room, staircase and mantel. 
Micaela decided on a stunning long sleeved, ivory and lace David Tutera gown with a touch of sparkle that she found at Dalia’s Bridal. She paired her dress with some really fun silver, jewel encrusted shoes by Betsey Johnson. A low updo with loose curls and a mid length veil completed her wedding day look. She looked like a princess! The bridesmaids were winter perfection in their burgundy, floor length gowns and fur shawls. Bouquets dripping with winter florals and evergreen sprigs from Maureens Buffalo Wholesale were the perfect accent to Micaela's color palate. The guys hung out at Jamie's house before the ceremony. They all looked great in their suits from Jos. A. Bank and classic bowties. 
Micaela + James were married in an abbreviated Catholic ceremony at the most impressive Saint Joseph Cathedral in downtown Buffalo which was also beautifully decorated for Christmas. After the traditional ceremony and some family photos, we headed back to the Buffalo Club. Cocktails were served in the main hall, amidst the massive Christmas tree with a pianist playing in the background. Guests were invited to sign the guestbook and found their name cards with a beautiful key styled keepsake that directed them to their dinner table. Dinner tables were clothed in white with monogramed Buffalo Club stemware and lovely winter florals. Each guest received a sweet treat with Mickey and Minnie Mouse on the front as an affectionate reminder of where the Disney loving couple got engaged.  During dinner, everyone enjoyed listening to the thoughtful speeches and heartwarming words directed toward the newlyweds. There were several laughs and a few happy tears. After dinner, Micaela and Jamie shared their first dance as husband and wife. Dessert and coffee were served in the library. Attendees noshed on brownies, lemon squares and tiramisu. Finally, everyone moved to the ballroom where Silver Arrow Band was playing. Micaela and her dad had a sweet first dance, as did Jamie and his mother. Everyone joined the dance floor when the band started playing Taylor Swift and some heavy singing and dancing ensued. Late night tacos were served and everyone sang and danced well into the night. It was really such a beautiful day, full of wonderful people and Mary and I were so honored to be a part of it. 
Congratulations Micaela and Jamie! We hope you had the best time on your first honeymoon in Charleston, SC!! Yes, first! Italy is up next for these two!!!!! 

Thank you to all of the amazing vendors who helped to make this day so special! 

Ceremony: Saint Joseph Cathedral
Venue and Cake: Buffalo Club
Bride's Hair and Makeup: Morcelle Salon (Gina Pattie)
Bridesmaids Makeup: Little Lou Beauty  (Leah Rennie)
Dress Designer: David Tutera
Dress Boutique: Dalia’s Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie
Shoes: Betsey Johnson
Groom's attire: Jos. A. Bank
Band: Silver Arrow Band
Florals: Maureens Buffalo Wholesale
Invitations: Party Harty
Photographer: Rooted Love Photography
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan

Aralyn + Jacob's wedding day was so much fun and bursting with love! The girls began the day at The Millennium Hotel in Buffalo, NY where they sipped champagne, chatted and laughed while a very talented girlfriend did their hair. Ava Grace did a beautiful job on makeup while babies were fed and passed around to many loving aunts.

Aralyn chose two dresses for the occasion. She selected a traditional, strapless princess gown, with delicate lace details that she found at a trunk show for her ceremony. She chose a more fitted, satin gown with a jewel encrusted bodice for the rest of the day and evening. Rose gold jewelry and shoes added a hint of color and sparkle. A side swept, relaxed updo completed Aralyn's look. This momma looked amazing! Since momma had two gowns, it was only fitting that Aralyn's 5 month old daughter, Elly, had two outfits as well. She was so cute! The bridesmaids wore different shades, textures and dress styles, all in a rose gold hue. The men were outfitted in gray suits from Men's Wearhouse with vests and black bowties. 
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Aralyn + Jake had a really sweet first look. Daughter Elly stole the show when she was brought over to see mommy and daddy. It was so beautiful to see there little family of three all together on one of the happiest days of their lives. Aralyn's nephew, Tommy, was also part of the wedding. He and Elly are close in age and they were both so good for the entire day. They were simply adorable! The bride and groom are highly allergic to flowers so Aralyn's mother-in-law created a unique bouquet for Aralyn and each of her bridesmaids of white peacock feathers and heirloom pearls and jewels. Aralyn honored her late grandfather with a rendition of his image attached to her bouquet. 

The bride and groom were married in a lovely ceremony under a simple white arbor adorned with willow branches and twinkling lights at Kloc's Grove.  Jake got a little choked up when he was saying his vows, leaving very few dry eyes among the family and friends in attendance. Jake + Aralyn have such a fun and playful relationship and their wedding day reflected that! 

We were so honored to be a part of such a special day. Seeing Aralyn, Jake and sweet baby Elly, together as a family of three was so wonderfully heartwarming. The excitement we witnessed from their families who came together from different countries and the other side of the world was so beautiful. It was truly a joyous event and one that we will never forget!! 

We wish you all the best, Aralyn + Jake and your adorable daughter Elly! Hope you have an amazing honeymoon in Punta Cana!! 


Venue: Kloc's Grove
Makeup: Ava Grace
Hotel: The Millennium Hotel
Groomsmen: Men's Wearhouse
Entertainment: DJ “Shyguy” Shawn
Videographer: Dan Richardson
Day of coordinator: The Wedding Connection
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan