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. 
​
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

​Amanda + Matt's wedding day was truly such a beautiful event. The people, the venue, the weather...it could not have been more perfect! Amanda and her bridesmaids began their day hanging out in their suite while having their hair and makeup done at The Tamarack Club of Holiday Valley Resort in Ellicottville, NY. Groomservice had all the ladies' hair looking amazing while The Makeup Parlour made sure all the girls' makeup looked flawless. Amanda shared the sweetest gifts with her mother, father and mother in law, while her sister/Maid of Honor gifted her with a beautiful bracelet to wear on her special day. It was all so touching and everyone did their best to hold back their tears!  Amanda chose a unique Inca wedding gown by Grace Loves Lace from NYC. It is a dress bridal dreams are made of. The gown was so flattering with delicate lace, a low back and feminine details. She was so unbelievably beautiful in it! Amanda paired this with a simple cathedral length veil and nude heels with dangling drop pearls and crystals around the ankles. A stunning half-up fishtail hairstyle with relaxed curls completed Amada's look. She looked effortlessly chic and beyond gorgeous!! The bridesmaids chose coordinating gowns in various shades of pink, blush and champagne from Adrianna Papell and Lulus. It was such a soft and beautiful color palette. Matt sported a modern navy suit by Hugo Boss, while the rest of the guys wore suits in the same hue from JP Tailors with multi colored satin ties and coordinating pocket squares and socks. They all looked so well put together! Matt gifted all the guys with personalized flasks, complete with a cartoon image of themselves on the front. These gifts were hilarious and actually very practical throughout the day! 

Matt and Amanda chose to have a first look and it was so lovely and romantic. These two are absolutely enamored with each other in the very best way! Their happiness is contagious! After the first look, we took some photos and guests headed to the ski chairlift for a champagne cocktail and a ride up to the mountain top ceremony. The view was amazing! Keith James played music for the ceremony while over 200 guests watched this happy couple become husband and wife in front of a gorgeous floral and pampas grass arch created by Swan Street Florist. Amanda and Matt recited their own vows that were incredibly heartfelt and thoughtful. After the ceremony, guests headed back down the mountain for cocktails and the reception in the main lodge at Holiday Valley Resort. The newlyweds sat at a sweetheart table in front of a decorative wooden hexagon sculpture with floral details that reflected the ascetic of the floral arch from their ceremony. Tables were adorned with elevated gold vases holding pampas grass, fresh eucalyptus and rich greenery. Amanda and Matt were showered with love during the kindest speeches from their dearest friends and her brother and father. When your brother tears up and calls your new husband your "soul mate", you know you've found a partner that your family adores! After dinner, the bride and groom shared their first dance and cut their three tiered, gold foil embellished wedding cake created by Chrusciki Bakery. DJ Mike S. of Toy Bros got everyone on the dance floor with glow sticks for Buffalo's favorite "Shout" song. Stephanie and Mary Beth of Video Network got it ALL on video and we cannot wait to see it! Everyone was out there, included all the kids that were having the time of their lives. It was really so cute! 

Amanda and Matt share a love that is so special. They are two of the warmest and kindest people. It was evident that they bring so much joy to those around them. You can't help but to feel the energy of their love and happiness when you are in their presence. We wish the two of you all the happiness in the world. Congratulations!!!

Thank you to all of the wonderful vendors that helped to make this day so amazing! 

Venue and Coordinator: Holiday Valley Resort
Dress: Inca Gown by Grace Loves Lace
Bridesmaids: Adrianna Papell and Lulus
Hair: Groomservice
Makeup: The Makeup Parlour
Groom Attire: Hugo Boss
Groomsmen: JP Tailors
Ceremony Music: Keith James
Invitations: Black Bow Studios
​Florals and Arch: Swan Street Florist
Bouquets and Boutineers: The Faux Bouquets
Cake: Chrusciki Bakery
Video: Video Network
DJ: Mike S. of Toy Bros
Photography: Rooted Love Photography
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan

Erika and Tony truly had such an amazing day filled with joy and so much love. Their day was unique to them and filled with several personal touches! The girls began the day Studio 1404 on Hertel. Everyone looked gorgeous! Erika's half up look was the perfect compliment to her pale blush and tulle BHLDN Ricarda wedding gown. As they continued to get ready, Erika wore an ivory, satin and lace custom robe created from her mother's wedding gown, by Unbox the Dress. It was so lovely and such a sweet sentiment! Her mother helped Erika get into her own wedding dress that was absolutely stunning, featuring a deep V and feminine floral details. Erika paired this with an heirloom veil that her mother wore on her wedding day, updating the comb with a modern, jewel encrusted version. Erika's mom surprised her with simple and elegant diamond earrings to wear on her special day. Her look was completed with blush toned Badgley Mischka Vivien Flats, accented with floral crystals for the just the right amount of sparkle! Erika was such a dream that both her mother and father teared up when they saw her. It was really so sweet! The bridesmaids looked fabulous in their mix and match BHLDN gowns in whipped apricot. Erika chose to get ready at her parents home and we took photos with the girls in her favorite place, their beautiful garden backyard. Tony chose to get ready at the North Buffalo Ice Rink, a place where he has spent so much time, it feels like home! He and his groomsmen had access to the lobby, rink and locker rooms. Getting ready together and laughing as they might before a hockey game was actually a really fun idea!!

The bride and groom were married in a abbreviated Catholic ceremony, in front of their closest family and friends at St. Joseph University Parish in Buffalo, NY. After the ceremony, Erika and Tony drove away as husband and wife in a white vintage Rolls Royce. They met their beloved pup, Murphy, at Albright-Knox Art Museum for a few quick pictures and were off to cocktails at the iconic Hotel Henry. Erika and Tony have a love of history and architecture so this was a natural choice for a location to celebrate their nuptials. Daulton, of The Refined Host organized the entire day and kept everything running smoothly with the help of Made by Anatomy who served as the most wonderful Bridal Valet. As guests walked into the room for cocktails they passed the cutest, hand drawn pictures and encouraging words for the couple from Erika's students while listening to the Buffalo String Quartet Play. The very talented Flowers by Johnny, also a family friend, transformed the ballroom into a dream space full of candlelight and the prettiest florals. Pale peach, blush and ivory roses, white hydrangeas and the loveliest greenery topped each table in tiered arrangements. Marissa at B Sweet Designs worked her magic again with the dessert table she created! Glittering gold donuts, strawberry and mango macaroons, cake pops and so much more expertly designed and displayed looking almost to good to eat! 

Silver Arrow Band got the party started right away with lots of dancing! Erika's father gave the most heartfelt welcome speech where he told their guests "Erika has this way about her. She just makes everyone feel good and loved when they are with her...I see how she is, when she is with Tony. He just makes her so happy." Oh my Lord, it is so true!! You can just feel the happiness exploding from these two and I don't think there was a dry eye in the crowd! Erika's sister and Tony's brother gave endearing and humorous speeches that were so meaningful to the couple. After dinner, it was back to the dance floor. Erika and Tony and all of their guests enjoyed their time singing and dancing and posing in the Photo Booth. The gorgeous cake, by Blue Eyed Baker, was rolled onto the dance floor and cut, providing an additional treat for everyone. 

Erika and Tony are the nicest, most patient couple. They, along with their family and friends, welcomed us with open arms. We were so honored to be a part of such a memorable day, with such kind and lovely people. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, and Congratulations!! Mary and I hope you had the best time in the Turks and Caicos!! 

Thank you to the fabulous team of vendors who worked so hard to make
Erika + Tony's wedding day so special! 

Venue + Catering: Hotel Henry
Planning + Event Design: The Refined Host
Dress: BHLDN Ricarda
Shoes: Badgley Mischka Vivien Flats
Bridesmaids: BHLDN
Robe: Unbox the Dress
Videography: Darren from Jacquelyn Daley Photography
Floral Design: Flowers by Johnny
Rentals: All Seasons Tents and Events
Vintage Car + Transportation: Advantage Limousine
Invitations: Rust Belt Love
Day-Of Paper Goods: Paige by Design
Band: Silver Arrow Band
Cocktail Musicians: Buffalo String Quartet
Cake: Blue Eyed Baker
Dessert Table: B Sweet Designs
Bridal Valet: Made by Anatomy
Hair + Makeup: Studio 1404
Photography: Rooted Love Photography
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan

Natalie + Adam had the most beautiful wedding day. It was easy to see how much they are loved by the outpouring of friends and family from near and far. Everyone was so kind, eager to support the lovely couple and to celebrate in their union. And there was no lack of celebration! Natalie and Adam made it a priority to ensure their guests had a good time, and what a good time it was! Exhale Events ensured everything ran smoothly and on time, leaving everyone else to simply enjoy themselves. 

The wedding day began with sunshine and temperatures in the mid 50s, which made for a pretty much perfect Spring day in Buffalo, NY. The girls started their day with hair at Fawn and Fox Salon and makeup by Jaime Ruggiero. Everyone looked amazing!! Natalie was a dream in her simple yet stunning, form fitting, ivory gown from Lovely Bride NYC. A touch of beading added the perfect amount of sparkle. Natalie completed her look with a custom, cathedral length veil, ivory heels and diamond earrings from her mother. The guys kept it classic in black tuxedos with black bowties, accented with crisp white pocket squares. Each bridesmaid wore an ivory, a-line gown which may be my new favorite wedding look! Maureen's Buffalo Wholesale Flower Market created gorgeous bouquets bursting with the fluffiest ivory peonies, roses and fresh greenery. As a loving tribute to her late father, Natalie had her dad's gold wedding band sewn into her bouquet. His memory, along with that of Adam's father, was very much present the entire day. The love that Natalie and Adam share for their loved ones was inexplicably palpable.

Natalie and Adam were wed in a traditional Catholic ceremony at Saint Louis Roman Catholic Church in front of all of their closest family and friends. After they stated their intentions and shared in the Eucharist together, it was off to the Japanese Gardens since the cherry blossoms were in bloom! This was a popular location as there were parades of people, weddings, well wishers and others enjoying the Spring blossoms. We were able to squeeze in for a few photos of the wedding party and some bride and groom portraits and it was well worth the time we waited for a clear spot! 

When we arrived back at The Greenhouse Room of the Hotel at The Lafayette, the loft style space had been transformed. White table clothed tables were adorned with beautiful white blooms and greenery amidst golden candlelight, creating a classic and romantic atmosphere. Perhaps the star of the culinary show was the unbelievable dessert table, styled by B Sweet Designs. Guests would wander by, stating "it's too pretty to take anything off of it." Cookies, cake pops and loads of other sweets surrounded the statement piece, an exquisite, ivory wedding cake topped with purple and green succulents, created by Romano's Italian Bakery. This delectable cake tasted just as good as it looked! 

Heartfelt speeches, sprinkled with bits of humor had everyone reminiscing. Natalie and Adam danced their first dance to a lovely rendition of "You Make Loving You Easy" played by Silver Arrow Band. Lighthearted Mother/Daughter and Mother/Son dances followed and then it was time for everyone to cut loose. The band played, everyone danced, and one guest even played his own beer bottle saxophone. There were so many fun highlights at this reception. The drinks were flowing and the party continued until late into the night. My heart was just so full as I flew home to Orlando the next morning. It was a wonderful Mother's Day weekend!

​ Congratulations to Natalie + Adam! You guys are so loved!! We hope you had an amazing honeymoon in Hawaii!!! 


​

Venue: Hotel at The Lafayette
Church: Saint Louis Roman Catholic Church 
Event Coordinator: Exhale Events
Hair: Fawn and Fox Salon
Makeup: Jaime Ruggiero
Wedding Dress and Veil: Lovely Bride NYC
Bridesmaid Dresses: Brideside
Florals: Maureen's Buffalo Wholesale Flower Market
Cake: Romano's Italian Bakery
Dessert Table: B Sweet Designs
Band: Silver Arrow Band
Rings: Hofert Jewelers
Invitations: Ashwood Ink
​Save the Date: Rustbelt Love
Transportation: Simply the Best Limo Service
Second Shooter: Mary O'Sullivan

A look at our setup by quaint rentals for our 2019 Holiday Mini Sessions! It's so pretty!! I still can't believe we did this again! When we moved to Orlando, FL, I really didn't think this Buffalo tradition would continue, but I'm so happy it worked out! Thank you so much to my brother and sister-in-law for allowing us to use their beautiful back porch, it was perfect! Thank you, Mary, for your endless help and for singing, dancing, and having every kid's song known to man at the ready on your phone! And a huge thank you to all of our wonderful clients who waited for this day and showed up when the weather was less than ideal.  I am so grateful for each and every one of you! 

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.