Tag Archives: Outdoor wedding

Wedding: John + Shawn Marie

John and Shawn Marie tied the knot Friday afternoon at Becker Farms and it was so sweet. There was so much joy throughout the day as they were surrounded by people who so obviously loved the two of them. Just one look through these pictures and you’ll have no doubt. Not only that, but the two of them share a sincere and pure love for one another. Their vows made all the guests (and maybe even me – I’ll never tell) tear up.

Shawn Marie’s mother suddenly passed away last December and it has been crushing for the family. I never met her, but by getting to know those who loved her, I could tell without a doubt that she was one incredible woman. She was extremely close to Shawn Marie. They did a wonderful job honoring her life and keeping her close throughout the day. From the picture that was carried around, to the bouquet with a piece of her mom’s wedding dress wrapped around it, to the multiple times I not only heard stories about her but also caught Shawn Marie looking upward… she was truly there.

John and Shawn Marie, you both are wonderful people. I so much enjoyed documenting your wedding day and I’m so honored that you invited me to this special, sacred event in your life. I know you both will make it – You share a forever kind of love. Keep the important things the most important and celebrate all the good things that come your way. I know you have and will continue to cling to one another in the hardships as well. I wish you all the best from the depths of my heart.

  • 2nd Photographer: David Barone-Vu
  • Venue: Becker Farms
  • Makeup: Maria Cardena
  • Hair: Brendan Hudson
  • Videographer: Jeremiah Gryczka, Mountain House Media
  • Florist: Carol Logan, Flourish
  • DJ: Tim Heimbuerger, H&H
  • Dessert: Becker Farms Bakery
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Wedding: Tim + Jenna

The last wedding of my 2018 season was Tim and Jenna’s this past  Saturday. The fall colors were out in full bloom and stunning but unfortunately it rained literally every minute of their day. But Tim and Jenna made the most of it and didn’t let the rain get to them at all. They still held their outdoor ceremony (under a covered patio) at the beautiful Deerfield Country Club.

Their friends and family were so care-free as well as they celebrated Tim and Jenna all day. It was one big party as you can tell by the dancing photos. They were such a great group.

Jenna was stunning in her lacy dress and Tim’s face as he looked at his bride all day just made my heart melt. You can see how much he cherishes her. Girls, get a guy who looks at you the way Tim looks at Jenna. Seriously.

We had some (freezing cold) fun to close out the night getting some shots in the rain. I figured, why not celebrate it with some creative photos since they’ll always remember just how much it rained on their wedding day. It’s good luck I hear.

Tim and Jenna – way to close out my wedding season with a bang. You guys were so fun to work with and I loved celebrating with you. I wish you the best. Keep treating life as an opportunity to smile, laugh, and cling to each other through all it has to bring. Congrats!

  • Venue: Deerfield Country Club
  • Makeup: Caitlin Ann
  • Second Photographer: Julie Hong
  • Florist: Blanchard Florist
  • DJ: Erik Volk, Premier Sound
  • Cake: Scratch Bakeshop
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Wedding: Mike + Rachel

I had been looking forward to Mike and Rachel’s wedding for what seemed like forever. When I first met them, they told me about their love for Rochester and their desire to celebrate it along with their love story at their wedding. I was so excited because I love our city as well.

Rachel and Mike are so great. I am crazy lucky to work with such incredible people like them. They wore giant smiles on their faces all day and were so easy going. They make my job so fun. They chose to do a first look downtown between Java’s and Eastman School of Music then had the bridal party meet us at the Freddie-Sue Bridge for some pictures.

They had their ceremony at Genesee Valley Park fittingly because they met through Rochester’s kickball league. After that, they held their reception on the second floor of Village Gate.

Mike and Rachel – you were amazing to work with. You were both so joyful and sweet. It was so easy to see that you both adore the other and truly enjoy being with each other. You have a kindness shared between you that I know will carry you on the hard days. It was such an honor to celebrate your story.

  • Ceremony: The Roundhouse Pavilion – Genesee Valley Park
  • Reception: The Village Gate Square – Second Floor Atrium
  • Hair and Makeup: Karen Bardo, Shear Ego
  • Second Photographer: Justine Olson
  • Florist: Anne Dougherty , Fabulous Flowers
  • DJ: Kyle Orton, Encore Events
  • Cake: Savoia’s Pastry Shoppe
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Wedding: Kevin + Rebekah

It was just one week ago today that Kevin and Rebekah said “I do” at Belhurst Castle on a gorgeous fall day. Rebekah’s parents have been friends of mine for many years and so when she asked me to photograph her wedding I was so excited. Her father spent so much time helping me get into photography and taught me so much in my early days as a photographer – I am so thankful for him.

Rebekah is sweet and lovely. She made a stunning bride both inside and out. She was happy and carefree all day. One of my favorite moments of the day was when she walked down the aisle toward her groom. He had tears welling up the moment he saw her and it was the same for her. I love when couples can’t hold in their emotions like that because it lets all of us see and feel a piece of the love they share.

As a photographer, I get to be there for all the moments of the day. I especially love the small ones that most don’t even get to experience. As I was walking them outside near the end of the night to take a portrait of them in front of the lit castle, Kevin quietly turns to his bride and says, “look – that’s OUR wedding reception happening over there”, pointing to the room full of dancing guests. I just love those sweet moments watching and listening to my couples take in the wonder of their wedding. It makes what I do so enjoyable.

Congratulations, Kevin and Rebekah. I loved celebrating with you and I wish you joy upon joy in your marriage. I know you both have so much love and support from your family and friends to help you through and cheer for you. Enjoy the dance of life together.

  • Venue: Belhurst Castle and Winery
  • Hair and Makeup: Diamond Expressions – Kierstyn Brown
  • Second Photographer: Julie Hong
  • DJ: Q Music Productions
  • Cake: Simple Sweets Bakery
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Wedding: Dan + Rachel

It was just two days ago that Dan and Rachel said “I do” at Durand Eastman Clubhouse. Their wedding was perfect. Their wedding date was on the first official day of Fall and they got all the gorgeous fall weather to go along with it! It was sunny and cool – wonderful weather to pair up with their pumpkin themed decor. Which, by the way, was masterfully done by Kittleberger Florist.

Rachel was surrounded by her team of girls who were sweet and smiley the whole day. And the bride herself wore this enormous grin on her face the entire day as well – she was all joy. It was so wonderful to be around.

Dan is a quiet, kind, and easy-going guy who absolutely adores Rachel. They have this goofy, playful relationship with one another that had me smiling all day – so much so, my cheeks got a workout. I shot their engagement session last year and I had been looking forward to shooting their wedding ever since. It totally didn’t disappoint.

Their friends and family are warm, happy, and super friendly. You just feel so at home with them. It was an absolute honor for me to spend the day with this group celebrating Dan and Rachel’s love.

You two are so sweet and have so much joy that you easily share with those around you. Keep your laid-back, playful, kind-hearted love focused on one another and you’ll have no trouble making this a marriage that lasts forever. And Rachel, never stop smiling, girl. You’ve got a killer grin that is so contagious – it’s seriously the best. Congratulations to you!

  • Venue: Clubhouse at Durand Eastman Park
  • Hair and Makeup: Solutions Spa
  • Second Photographer: Julie Hong
  • DJ: Whirlin’ Disc DJs
  • Florist: Kittlebergers, Lisa Meyer
  • Catering: Madeline’s
  • Cupcakes: Sinful Sweets
  • Wedding Planner: Pauleen Vacca
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Wedding: Eric + Melanie

I could probably write a whole book about my thoughts on Eric and Melanie’s wedding day. I won’t, don’t worry. In an attempt to keep it brief, here are my observations:

I have never worked with a couple who have so much charisma, joy, and outward, expressive love for one another. Shooting Eric and Mel’s wedding was truly a treat. I enjoyed watching them through my camera every moment of their day.

They chose to do a first look in the vineyards and it couldn’t have been any sweeter. I led the bride up to her groom with her eyes closed and joined them hand to hand. Eric’s reaction to Melanie was one for the books – you could tell his heart was bursting with excitement and love for his bride. Then they read notes they had written to each other out loud.

These two were nearly giddy all day. The smiles never left their faces. They had a sweet ceremony followed by a super fun reception featuring wings, barbecue, ice cream, and some of the most energetic and fun guests dancing the night away.

My most favorite moment of the day was Eric and Melanie’s first dance. All they saw was each other. It was like no one else was in the room. Their emotion and love for one another was felt throughout the whole tent. I have watched couples dance their first dance for 9 years now and I can say without a doubt that Eric and Melanie had me mesmerized like none other.

Eric and Melanie – There is no doubt in my mind that your love is powerful. Use it to serve one another and be evidence of the one who created it. It was my absolute honor to spend the day with you capturing a picture of your love story. Congratulations to you both.

  • Venue: Deer Run Winery
  • DJ: Turner Music Productions
  • Catering: 3 Legged Pig Barbecue
  • Hair Stylist: Lindsay Adams
  • Makeup Artist: Lindsay Adams
  • Second Photographer: Olya Myers
  • Florist: Westside Gardens
  • Cake: Get Caked Bakery
  • Ice Cream Bar: Moonlight Creamery
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