I thought for sure by Thursday that I would be feeling better…no such luck. Strep throat had a grip on me for the second time this year. As I boarded the plane to NY I just hoped that I could sleep on the way…no such luck. Never in my life have I had issues with my sinuses but I guess as a result of me being ill, flying took a toll on my head like never before. It was weird. I had this immense pressure and tingling in my nasal cavity the entire flight. Yuck!
We arrived in NY and meet up with Jeff’s parents and sister at the airport. We were off to his twin brothers wedding. The ride from La Guardia to upstate NY was…well, let’s just say…an experience. ;-) Rehearsal dinner was held at a quaint little restaurant called Cameo’s. Which happen to be spitting distance from my brother in laws apartment…yes I did just say “spitting distance.” I mean seriously it was and you know that I just gave you a visual worthy of a laugh out loud. Ha! Ha!
Friday arrived and we headed out apple picking. I adore fresh fruit and it was pretty cool to just walk up and pick my own apple…fresh, crisp, delicious! That evening we enjoyed a spaghetti dinner hosted by the Bride to be’s parents. I must give props to Casey’s parents as they left no stone unturned when it came to this wedding.
It’s Saturday, wedding bells are ringing and the weather is perfect. The couple is married in a stunning Catholic church at 2:00 in the afternoon. The interim between ceremony and reception was completely accommodating for wedding portraits. I wish that all of my weddings were structured in that same fashion. I was not the wedding photographer but ya’ll know that I could not resist capturing a few shots of my own to share. I respectfully kept my distance but was able to land a few memorable captures…from some rather unusual angels. It was fun to just shoot randomly and see what I could come up with.
Soon we boarded the limo bus…which I think is such a fantastic alternative to the traditional stretch limo. Up to the mountain we traveled. The bridal party celebrated, danced and laughed. Upon arrival the bridal party was escorted to a private cocktail hour as the guests enjoyed their own cocktail hour. This was a first for me but I thought that it was a great way for the Bride and Groom to catch their breath and prepare for their grand entrance and a night of celebration in their honor.
Introductions began and the wedding reception was in full swing. The ball room was illuminated by a back wall of natural light windows with a dramatic view of the sunset lit mountains. It was beautiful! Orchids adorned the centerpieces and place settings were marked with rocks displaying the names of each guest…unique and memorable.
The music played and we danced. And danced. And danced. There was a photo vendor at the wedding offering group or individual pictures immediately processed and made into a keepsake magnet. I’ve seen photo booths but not photo magnets. That was pretty cool!
When the night came to a close many of the guests headed back to the mountain side resort for an after party…complete with a huge fire pit, freshly grilled hot dogs (courtesy of the Bride’s Father) and no shortage of beer! None for me, thank you. But, what a fun way to end a beautiful occasion! When you made it to your room you were greeted with one final wedding favor which was a cute little thank you bag full of room snacks. Again, the Bride’s parents had truly thought of everything! Kudos to you Mr. and Mrs. Miller!
Casey and Brian…I hope that the love that you felt on your wedding day will accompany you for the rest of your lives. Enjoy your time in Aruba! Much love and congratulations!!!
~Dawn
GORGEOUS!!!!!!! Wow, they are so blessed to have you for their special day. Great work Dawn. Sorry you were sick.
Dawn, you rocked this! I'd hate to have been the hired wedding photographer to have to follow these. I hope you're feeling better.
Poor Dawn! You and flying just do not get along well. These pictures are stunning though. Absolutely stunning!
BEAUTIFUL…absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!!
Stunning!! I know you were respectful of the primary photographer but still you got some absolutely stunning shots of their special day. You are such a blessing to the their family. I'm glad you had such a good time and hope you ate enough of those delicious looking apples to keep the dr away for a long, long time!
My favorite picture is the bride sitting on the red park bench having a quite affectionate moment with her groom…. That's the part of photography I love…. artistically capturing those moments. Beautiful job Dawn!
Beautiful Dawn!
Beautiful job as always.. My favs are the one against the wall on St. Jeffersdon Strret ( I believe) and the one of them together on the bench with the water… So beautiful.. You amaze me more and more everyday. I honestly couldn't be prouder of you!!!
I meant..St. Washington street, lol…