Ariel & Ben’s Wedding – Cresthollow Country Club – full gallery
CrestHollow Country Club summer wedding - Jewish Orthodox wedding
CrestHollow Country Club summer wedding - Jewish Orthodox wedding
Lavish garden-themed winter wedding at the Art Factory, Paterson, NJ
This incredible wedding that my team had the pleasure to be a part of in January 2022 was definitely one for the books. It was themed as a lavish green garden and it is kind of ironic that it took place on the coldest and snowiest day of the year. Katie and Jeff had a lavish wedding ceremony during sunset. The ballroom where the ceremony took place was warm and decorated in lavish greenery and flowers while the loud wind gusts, snow and very cold temperatures outside reminded everyone that it was still winter.
The wedding was themed as a lavish green garden and it is kind of ironic that it took place on the coldest and snowiest day of the year in January 2022.
We’ve captured countless unforgettable moments, but one wedding in particular will always stand out in our memories – the blizzard wedding of 2022.
When we heard that Winter Storm Elliott was headed our way, we knew we had to take precautions. Despite the venue being just 18 miles from our studio, we opted to stay in a nearby hotel to ensure we could get there safely. And boy, were we glad we did! The storm dumped up to four feet of snow and caused widespread chaos throughout New York State and beyond.
But we were determined to make it to the wedding, no matter what. With our trusty videographer Alex behind the wheel of his 4×4 SUV, we braved the treacherous roads, averaging just 6 miles per hour. We even witnessed a car slide right in front of us – it was a nerve-wracking experience to say the least!
Thanks to our quick thinking and Alex’s heroic driving skills, we arrived at the venue 1.5 hours before our official start time. We were thrilled to see our industry friends Ingrid and Gloria from EverAfter Events already hard at work, ensuring the day would be a success.
With our trusty videographer Alex behind the wheel of his 4×4 SUV, we braved the treacherous roads, averaging just 6 miles per hour. We even witnessed a car slide right in front of us – it was a nerve-wracking experience to say the least!
The wedding was themed as a lavish green garden and it is kind of ironic that it took place on the coldest and snowiest day of the year in February 2022. Katie and Jeff had a lavish wedding ceremony during sunset. The ballroom where the ceremony took place was warm and decorated in lavish greenery and flowers while the loud wind gusts, snow and very cold temperatures outside reminded everyone that it was still winter.
The couple’s cake was also very unique and beautiful. Three sweet tiers masterfully designed in rustic style were decorated with elegant fresh flowers.
The couple and the guests were drenched in greenery. The centerpieces of the cocktail hour were suckling pig roasted right at the venue and a custom ice sculpture.
The bride and groom wanted to create a unique experience for themselves, their families and friends by creating an enchanted forest atmosphere, so they drenched their guests in lush greens and flowers. The cocktail hour centerpieces — suckling pig roasted right at the venue! — and a custom ice sculpture- were a huge hit!
The after party was epic! The special guest was a New Jersey Devil himself! Maybe not what you think, it is Jeff’s favorite ice hockey team.
The party was held at the Art Factory in Paterson, NJ which was an eclectic and unique location for their celebration. We had access to all their different areas from the ribbon room, to the bar area, to the ceremony room and the ballroom.
In the end, the blizzard wedding of 2022 turned out to be a stunning celebration of love, despite the challenges. And we were honored to be there to capture every precious moment. So if you’re looking for a wedding photographer who will stop at nothing to give you the perfect memories of your special day, look no further than our talented team!
Event Professionals:
Venue: The Art Factory Paterson | Planner: Ever After Events | Tableware & menus: Willow and Sage Catering | Photography & Video: Artvesta Studio | Makeup: Makeup by Danielle Arci | Hair: Hair by Casey Veda | Event Painter: J Howard Studios
A Rustic Barn Wedding at Gedney Farm, The Berkshires, MA
love stories are always unique and beautiful in their own way. Max and Jessica’s love story is no exception. They met in July 2019 when Max’s boss, Drew, introduced them. Despite Max’s initial reluctance, they hit it off and began dating. Fast forward to a year later, the couple exchanged vows in a picturesque wedding ceremony in the Berkshires. In this blog post, we’ll take you through their love story and their magical wedding day.
Max and Jessica knew they wanted to get married in the Berkshires because it holds significant memories for both of them.
Max went to camp there, and Jessica’s family has a home close to Gedney, the venue they ultimately chose. As soon as they walked into the venue, they knew it was the perfect spot for them. The venue encapsulated everything they loved about the Berkshires- beautiful nature, awesome food, and a warm, welcoming vibe.
Planning: After being engaged for a year, Max and Jessica spent ten months planning their wedding. The couple put in a lot of effort to ensure everything was perfect. The result was a beautiful, well-planned wedding that reflected their personalities and love for each other.
The couple’s wedding ceremony, the chuppah, was a poignant moment that brought tears to everyone’s eyes.
The Ceremony: The most memorable part of their wedding day was the beautiful vows they exchanged under the chuppah. It was a poignant moment that brought tears to everyone’s eyes. They also performed Valerie, a soulful song that added to the already magical atmosphere.
Max and Jessica’s love story is a testament to the fact that love finds a way, no matter the circumstances.
Conclusion: Max and Jessica’s love story is a testament to the fact that love finds a way, no matter the circumstances. Their wedding was a beautiful affair that reflected their love for each other and the Berkshires. We wish the couple a lifetime of happiness and love.
Event Professionals:
Venue: Gedney Farm | Photography & Video: Artvesta Studio |
New York City Central Park Engagement – Fayth & Bob
New York City is amazingly beautiful during the fall. The leaves are turning colors and the weather is so perfect. Central Park is one of the most beautiful places in New York. It’s a place where you can have fun and relax with your loved one, or get some work done.
I love to take engagement photos with couples in Central Park. There are so many pretty locations in this urban oasis! Look at these photos, Belvedere Castle, Bow Bridge, Bethesda fountain. Also, 5th Avenue and Plaza Hotel – the two iconic NYC locations – are right outside of the park’s South East entrance.
The park also has many other lovely attractions that you can use for your engagement photo shoot, including cafes, benches, little ponds, statues and even a waterfall. In this article we will cover some of the best locations for an engagement photo shoot in central park.
Belvedere Castle
The Belvedere Castle is a castle in Central Park in Manhattan, New York City. It was built from 1869 to 1873 by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. The structure was designed as an observation tower with views of the surrounding terrain and city, but also features Tiffany stained glass windows and murals by artists including Thomas Wilmer Dewing.
The castle sits at the highest point on its east side, near where East Drive enters Central Park West. Its south face overlooks Conservatory Water (also known as Turtle Pond), while its north facade faces North Meadow/the Ramble.
Bethesda Terrace
Bethesda Terrace is a beautiful place for an engagement photo shoot. The terrace overlooks the central park lake and it’s a popular wedding venue, so you can expect to see lots of brides taking photos there. If you want to capture some amazing city skyline shots, this is your spot!
The Boathouse
The Boathouse is great for engagement photos because of its views. The restaurant has a beautiful view of the lake, which makes it a perfect place to take pictures if you’re looking to capture some natural light. If you want to get some cityscapes in your photos as well, head over to their rooftop bar where you can see all of Central Park and beyond!
The best time for an engagement photo shoot at The Boathouse is between May and September when there aren’t many tourists around; however, if you’d rather shoot during winter months (when there are fewer crowds), then January through March would be ideal since it gets dark earlier than other seasons do so that means more time for shooting indoors before sunset hits.
Bow Bridge
Bow Bridge is a small bridge in Central Park, and it’s a great place to take photos. It’s particularly nice at sunset, or in the fall when all of the leaves are changing colors. If you’re there in winter, you can get some really great shots with snow on the ground or ice covering the water below.
Fifth Avenue in Manhattan
Fifth Avenue is a great place to get photos of the city. It’s lined with trees and other greenery, which makes it a beautiful spot during the day and night. There are many famous landmarks along Fifth Avenue, so you can use them as backdrops for your engagement photos.
The Plaza Hotel
The Plaza Hotel is a luxury hotel located on the southeast corner of Central Park. The hotel was built in 1907 and was a gift to the city by developer Harry C. Brown.
The Plaza offers several different packages for couples who want to get engaged at their venue, including an engagement photoshoot package that includes two professional photographers for up to six hours, digital images from your session and prints of your choice after delivery, as well as other add-ons like stationery design and custom frames for your photos (starting at $1,200).
Ryan and Craig a fun wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
Same sex wedding at Robert restaurant in New York City
LUXURY FAIRYTALE CHRISTMAS WEDDING AT LOTTE PALACE NEW YORK
Picture an iconic hotel that has been home to some incredible dignitaries and celebrities in the heart of New York City and you’ve got the Lotte New York Palace.
This hotel is stunning all year round! The landmark Villard Mansion with its gold-drenched ceilings and marble columns as well as the grand Madison Ballroom are dream locations for a luxuriously romantic fairytale.
Lotte New York Palace hotel has one of the most beautiful and recognizable Christmas trees in New York City.
The Palace hotel has one of the most beautiful and recognizable Christmas trees in New York City. A 35-feet tall tree all decked out and shining brightly in the quintessential courtyard of the hotel centrally located on Madison Avenue in Manhattan, minutes away from some of the most revered attractions such as Central Park, Rockefeller Centre and Radio City Music Hall.
The fairytale started with the dress by Galia Lahav, an amazing crown and oversized veils from Bridal Styles Boutique.
And who doesn’t know Radio City Rockettes from NYC’s Christmas Spectacular? They surely added a burst of color and cheer to the festive occasion! An extra special act from Cirque Central, ‘Confetti Bubble Beauty’ brought this magical Christmas scene over the top. This performance could add a unique visual element to any wedding!
Our fairytale continued inside the Palace as event designer, Eva Madeleina created a magical, enchanted garden-like atmosphere with flowers and greenery. Clear Chiavari chairs with hunter green cushions for the ceremony perfectly completed the light and airy look to balance out heavy christmasy greens.
The lounge areas were given a fairytale makeover with a Tuscan Rose sofa and an armchair and a gold glass coffee table so that the guests could feel like royalty.
To add a classy audible dimension to the ceremony, we invited NYC’s most fashionable and chic Jazz duo, Acute Inflections to perform for the couple and their guests.
It is absolutely possible to have a chic dream wedding even in the times of COVID and technology is definitely on our side to virtually connect with the loved ones on such a significant day.
It is absolutely possible to have a chic dream wedding even in the times of COVID and technology is definitely on our side to virtually connect with the loved ones on such a significant day.
The new virtual trend of hybrid weddings became very popular and in high demand among those couples, who don’t want to postpone their nuptials due to the pandemic.
The new virtual trend of hybrid weddings became very popular and in high demand among those couples, who don’t want to postpone their nuptials due to the pandemic.
Even though the traditional Christmas colors are red, white and green, our event designers incorporated blush, white and gold to create the romantic, fairytale vibe. The laser-cut menus and blush charges with gold edges matched the romantic, luxury wedding theme perfectly.
Since current health precautions encourage everything contactless, we asked a talented calligrapher Joanne Day to create a grand escort card mirror featuring the New York skyline and some traditional Christmas accents.
The gorgeous centerpiece of the reception was the dessert table featuring delicious cupcakes, sweet cookies and stunning tiered wedding cake from ‘A Simple Cake’.
The shoot was a spectacular, fun team project where all participating event pros gave every little detail the attention it deserved.
We featured two very different couples as our wedding models to showcase multiple dimensions of the space and incorporate different personalities and vibes.
The first couple, Anastasia and Thiago, are classic and elegant heroes of this visual winter fairy-tale. I captured some black and white and some available light images to showcase the ambiance and the vibe of the rooms.
Hybrid wedding virtual wedding projector screen
Lotte_Palace_Christmas_Wedding
Lotte palace luxury wedding christmas madison ballroom
Christmas luxury wedding at lotte palace new york
Our second couple, Joshua and Faith, helped me create eye-catching, playful images that are full of glam and character. This feather accented fanciful wedding gown was perfect for the chilly winter weather and the chic, dramatic look we were going for.
Lotte_Palace_Christmas_Wedding
Bold and charismatic couple Christmas wedding
Event Professionals:
Venue: Lotte New York Palace | Planner: Best Venues Group | Décor: Eva Madelina | Photography: Artvesta Studio | Video: ET Weddings | Rentals: Glam Party Rentals | Dessert Table: A Simple Cake | Makeup: Namani MUA | Hair: Dida Hair And Makeup | Jewelry: Bridal Style Boutique | Bridal Gowns: Bridal Reflections New York | Models: Anastasia , Faith Amber , Joshua lhila | Jazz Duo: Acute Inflections | Talent: Cirque Central | Calligrapher: Joanne Day Calligraphy | Menus: Ceci New York | Tux: Robbie & Co
Kelsie & Noah’s Summer Wedding at Ravel Hotel, LIC
Sweet young couple Kelsie and Noah joined their hearts in a lush wedding ceremony on July 13th, 2019 at Ravel Hotel located in the trendy Long Island City, NYC. It was such a delightful, happy, and fun day! Everything was just perfect and I am so excited to share these photos! The couple’s precious fur baby Ellie deserves special credit for being the exclusive ring bearer!
Here is the couple’s story:
Kelsie & Noah are both acappella nerds and met in their post-collegiate group, Blackout. One day Noah took Kelsie back to the place where they met, the place he auditioned for the acappella group and popped the question!
From the bride & groom:
We wanted our wedding to be formal but we asked our guests to lean towards colorful attire! Kelsie bought her dress at Sarah Seven and Noah got his tux from Indochino. Both of our shopping experiences were incredible and we highly recommend both places!
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding?
For the most part, our ceremony and reception were secular. We did, however, incorporate a chuppah into our ceremony. During our reception, we had Noah’s grandfather cut the challah and our whole party danced to the horah!
What is your best memory from your wedding?
Kelsie surprised Noah by getting up with the band and singing Noah’s favorite song. We also were blown away by all the love and excitement when we entered our reception for the first time!
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?
Use a day-of planner, whether it be a friend or a professional. Having someone else to take care of about all the crazy day-of mishaps will give you a chance to relax and enjoy the day before it all flies by.
What gifts did you give to your bridesmaids and groomsmen?
Kelsie gave each bridesmaid a matching set of pajamas, a travel carry-on bag, and a few other fun little things like monogrammed tumblers and tote bags with the wedding hashtag that Kelsie handpainted.
Noah gave each groomsmen monogrammed cufflinks and a bottle of their favorite liquor.
What were your gifts for one another?
We gave each other the trip of a lifetime, a safari and beach trip in East Africa!
What was your ceremony entrance song?
Crazy in Love – Jay Z and Beyonce
What was your first dance song?
Perfect – Ed Sheeran
Vendors:
Photography and Videography: ArtVesta Studio
Florals: FLO NY Events
Venue: Ravel Hotel
Wedding dress: Sarah Seven
Groom’s attire: Indochino
Anna & Dan’s wedding at Whitby Castle, Rye, NY
I love pretty and unique weddings. This wedding was pretty unique! Beautiful, vivacious Anna and charming, sophisticated, worldly Dan tied the knot in July 2018 at the dreamy Whitby Castle in Rye, NY.
Whitby castle provides such a majestic background for a wedding ceremony! Anna gracefully glided down the aisle like a fairy princess towards her prince charming and the two united in a beautiful wedding ceremony that ended with a sweet kiss.
The reception rocked! The dance floor was electric, buzzing with action, glowing like Anna’s favorite blue.
The night’s grand finale was pretty epic with sparkles, lots of hugs and a surprise sing-along with friends.
Liz & Keisha’s romantic wedding at Whitby Castle, Rye, NY
This fascinating love story is a testament to the true love that makes this world go round. Pictures indeed speak louder than words. Two people, who compliment each other, have found the purest love, happiness, and devotion in each other. What a privilege it was to document your wedding, dear Keisha and Liz.
Liz and Keisha wrote their own vows and those heart-warming words surely made everyone tear up.
Liz
Before there was Lizzy and dimples.. There was someone who wasn’t comfortable with being herself… Someone who didn’t want to risk getting hurt and didn’t know how to open her heart… How we got here had its ups and downs, but it led me to here, standing in front of you without a doubt in my mind that i want to marry you.
You have taught me to be myself, stand tall and proud of who i am. You have been there for me every step of the way, you have dried every tear, massaged every sore muscle, and have been there for every 14-hr race from start to finish.
As much as I have been known for my athletic strength, you have been my strength. I admire you for being true to urself, for living your own best life, and loving with an open heart. I admire you for being strong, intelligent, and direct to the point woman. When I look at you, I see someone i am in awe of.
From the outside we look like total opposites. But when you look deeper, you will see two people who love to travel, we cherish our family and friends and enjoy our quiet time at home on a sofa and, of course, with a nice glass of wine.
I promise to be a shoulder to cry on, a hand to hold and be your shelter as we are stronger together. I promise to travel thru the ups and downs of marriage with you, always by your side. I promise to love with you, laugh with you, to race life’s challenges with you. I stand in front of family and friends to give you my hand and give you my heart.
Keisha
I knew you would be different by our first Christmas together. You had the sweetest Christmas stockings for me filled with knick nacks. There was particularly long odd strangely wrapped gift that you urged me to open first…so i did and it was a box of dirty windshield wiper blades. I was so confused.
But you wrapped my old windshield wiper blades because you knew i didn’t take good care of my car and you bought me new ones and put them on my car.
Acts of services is how you show love. You knew i didn’t take the best care of my car and it was winter and the wiper blades needed to be changed months ago. So you changed them and wrapped the old ones. You gave me what i needed and have done that over and over for the past eight years. You always know just what i need and it comes at the right time.
If i were to sum up our relationship, I lured you out of ur shell and got you to tell your story and you slowed me down and taught me to be patient. You taught me to wait on the really good days because they were worth it.
And the really good things are not the things you buy. They may not always come in the package that you’d expect. You taught me to be quiet sometimes… You taught me to take care of myself… that I’m more than just a brain. You’ve made me not be serious. You taught me to just laugh and make fun of myself. You taught me life is about those small acts of service day in and day out.
It’s about love and devotion. It’s about those moments, when you can just talk to each other and fall asleep in each other’s arms. You taught me that’s what counts and that’s what matters. You are my person. You are the face I want to see every day when I open my eyes and every night when I close them. You have my heart. You have my love. You are my everything. I love you.
The couple’s wedding was selected for an editorial feature in the most prestigious wedding publication in New York City, New York Weddings magazine in its fall 2018 issue!
The couple’s poignant wedding video has gotten over 3,000 views on YouTube. Congratulations, Liz & Keisha and cheers to the true love!
Photography/videography: ArtVesta Studio
Event planning and design: Björn & Co
Cake: City Sweets and Confections
Florals: Evelisa Floral Design
Venue: Whitby Castle
Linens: BBJ Linens
Rentals: WestSide Party Rentals
Stationary: Say Cheese and Thank You
Dani & Yaw’s celestial wedding at Midtown Loft & Terrace, NYC
At the end of July, I had the pleasure of photographing not just an elegant and magnificent but celestial wedding of two beautiful people, Danielle and Yaw. It was a quintessential city wedding with the bride and groom getting ready at The Marmara hotel located steps away from their wedding venue, the Midtown Loft and Terrace.
The Marmara Park Avenue’s spacious terraces feature the breathtaking views of the Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, and downtown Manhattan.
Dani was walking on the stars in her dreamy and floating Pnina Tornai dress and her classy see through Christian Louboutin stilettos adorned with crystals. Dani’s outfit made her look like an angel enveloped gracefully in the clouds. To finish off the look, Dani’s glittering headpiece really made her Queen of the Stars.
It was such a beautiful and dreamy wedding, quite literally because this WAS, indeed, Dani’s dream perfectly executed in one memorable night.
I asked Dani to share their love story with me and it is as beautiful as this charming couple!
Yaw and I met officially the last week before our college graduation. I was a transfer student, so we almost graduated college without meeting one another. The last week of graduation, Yaw threw a party for the graduates and I accompanied a mutual friend to his party. We met that night, we became friends and soon after a couple. We dated throughout our 20’s, separating once for about a year and a half and then we found our way back to one another. Shortly after our reconciliation, surprise we were pregnant! Yaw took me to Paris for my 30th birthday and proposed to me by the Eiffel Tower and I said yes, of course. Then we saved for our wedding and on July 28th, 2018, I married my best friend!
Enchanted forest-themed wedding at Tribeca Rooftop, NYC
Candice & Drew’s enchanted forest-themed wedding at Tribeca Rooftop, NYC was truly magical. The loving couple radiated happiness, love, and joy on their special day.
Being allergic to flowers, Candice requested a no-flowers wedding bouquet. “No flowers – no problem!”, Said Rachel Cho at Rachel Cho Floral Design and created this masterpiece featuring succulents, air plants and cacti!
From the couple:
How did you guys meet?
Drew and I met on an app called coffee meets bagel. We talked before we met but on December 6th we met at The City Bakery. We went for hot chocolate on a cold wet day. The huge marshmallows on top of the hot chocolate are covered in powdered sugar so if you aren’t careful sugar goes everywhere. Let’s just say Drew was not careful. I’m pretty sure he got it up his nose in his hair. He laughed it off. Really didn’t even care. After that broke the ice we had an amazing time. We both knew that date that this was different. In January one of my dogs passed and drew was there helping me take care of the other dogs and me. This was the moment I knew I loved him.
What is the most memorable date you had?
Drew’s favorite date of all time was our first real going out to dinner date. We went to The Red Cat. We were seated in a back corner booth where we sat next to each other. Which is very romantic, unless the people across from you are drunk and trying to ask a million questions about our date. We were laughing about it. Drew said that night we really connected.
When did you know that Drew was the one? How and when did Drew propose?
We talked about wanting to be married and the whirlwind romance we were (are) having. On Saturday before Mother’s Day we went out with my parents, I had a work trip scheduled that week and Drew was leaving right after I got back. My parents we’re going to be away for a while so Drew got my dad aside and asked permission and he said my mom has to say yes and so do I. So then on our walk to Eataly he told my mom what dad said and she agreed. We get sat down at a table and before the wine was served my dad blurts out, “apparently drew wants to marry her.” To my mother. The entire lunch we talked about wedding and planning a wedding that I wasn’t even proposed to yet. After lunch we are walking home and I get a group text from Drew’s Dad: Let us know when it’s official so I can welcome her into the family. When we got home I said hey if everybody knows I want to know too. And he said but I was planning a huge proposal and I said I don’t need one. So on the couch with the dogs Drew got the ring and started to cry and I laughed and said yes. It wasn’t the big proposal but it was perfect for us.
How long did it take you to plan your wedding?
We planned our wedding in 6 months. While I opened a store, we adopted a dog (Willcox), and we started trying and got pregnant. I only recommend it if you have a little help. My friends all got involved and were so helpful. Once we had the major pieces in place everything else totally came together. I also had a dozen Pinterest boards to keep all my ideas on.
Photography: ArtVesta Studio
Wedding Coordinator : Erganic Design
Floral design: Rachel Cho Floral Design
Venue, food & beverage: Tribeca Rooftop
Hair: Janeaa Jennings
Make Up: Jade Staton
Ceremony, Cocktail, Dinner/Dancing Music: Element Music
Photobooth: Shake and Share Media
Stationery : Minted.com
Miriam & Adam ~ Central Park Engagement
Meet Miriam and Adam, a happy couple, a genuine example of happiness and being in love. Witnessing and capturing the joy of the true love makes me happy. Please enjoy the couple’s love story.
Adam and I first met at our Rabbi’s house about 10 years ago. Adam came sporadically to religious events, while I attended every single one. From the moment I saw Adam, I fell in complete love with his charming smile and his sweet disposition. He was the first one to always offer the Rabbi’s wife help around the kitchen and house. Over the years, our interactions never went beyond a shy smile and a quick hello.
Adam was extremely shy growing up and later recalled how he watched me out of the corner of his eye, never mustering up the courage to talk to me at length. About 3 years ago Adam and I reconnected at our Rabbi’s house once again, after not really seeing each other for a few years. We started hanging out in a group of friends, and we quickly found out how much fun we had while in each other’s presence.
Our friendship developed over the years, while our teenage feelings of adoration became deeply rooted respect, devotion, and mutual understanding. Adam first asked me on a date on February 14, 2016, not realizing it was Valentine’s day! We cooked an elaborate Thai themed dinner that took us 4 hours to prepare and then got dressed up to enjoy our beautiful creation. Loving each other and each other’s wonderful families came so naturally to us so on August 24, 2016, Adam proposed. Knowing how much I adore hiking and nature, Adam took me on a beautiful hike in Northern NJ and proposed to me at the top of the mountain.
We are so grateful that we have reunited and reconnected after all of these years after we had time to grow and mature into the people we are today. Every day is an incredible day because I have Adam in my life; we inspire each other to grow spiritually, expand our cultural/artistic horizons, and cultivate our foodie repertoire.
Location: Central Park
Engagement at Hunter’s Point Park, LIC ~ Queens, NY
It was a very exciting day today!
Parth wanted to propose to his girlfriend of 6.5 years and he reached out to me for help. We found a perfect location and a perfect time of day for the moment of their lifetimes. She said YES! Congratulations, Ankita & Parth!
Damien and Leilani ~ The Marmara Park Avenue, Midtown Loft & Terrace
Capturing couples’ happiest moments makes me happy. Every moment has its own beauty and this wedding of a New Yorker, Damien, and a native Alaskan, Leilani, was truly unique and magical. The day tastefully incorporated elements of both cultures, celebrating the beautiful blend of traditions.
For the union of Damien and Leilani, both parties got ready for their big day at the Marmara Hotel in New York City. The Marmara is one of the best known luxury hotel chains in Turkey. Its NYC branch is located on East 32nd Street between Park Avenue and Lexington Avenue. A spacious terrace of the hotel, which shows the gorgeous backdrop of the Chrysler Building, was the perfect place to start the day. Though it was marginally cold out, the couple braved the chill to take their photos on the outside terrace of one of the hotel’s suites.
The harmony of the happy couple matched the synchronicity of their chosen accessories. Both the groom’s boutonniere and the bride’s bouquet matched in rich color and paid homage to bride’s home state of Alaska. The groom’s boutonniere had a cute addition of a Ruffed Grouse’s feather, the most predominant bird in Alaska. The bride’s bouquet incorporated a strip of fur wrapped around the flowers. Both unique additions alluded to hunting, which is a significant part of the Alaskan culture.
From the hotel, both parties moved on to the Midtown Loft & Terrace at 267 5th Avenue where they held an outdoor ceremony incorporating some Jewish and native Alaskan traditions important to the bride and groom such as breaking a coconut by Leilani’s dad and breaking the glass by Damien. It was a beautiful ceremony taking place under an arch covered in burgundy and golden flowers. Those warm and welcoming tones were carried through to the reception, along with rich turquoise, to create an intimate and elegant reception atmosphere.
It was a fun and lively party, especially with the addition of the lifting of the chairs, another Jewish tradition. It was also an emotional evening at times with some touching moments such as parents’ dances and speeches by members of both sides of the family. The night ended with an available-light photo of a romantic kiss between a newly wed husband and wife, with the background of a lit up Empire State Building.
Mother & Daughter photo Shoot in Central Park
This is why I love my job! I just had a fabulous Mother – Daughter photo shoot with Jennifer and her lovely daughter Serena.
Meet Serena 2 years and 11 months old and this my interview with this lovely little lady:
What’s your name? – Serena
What’s your mommy’s name? – Jenn! ( same like aunt Jen)
How old are you? – 3
When is your birthday? – 10 o’clock in the morning time
How old is mommy? – 3
How old is daddy? – 4
What’s your favorite color? – Blue!!!
What’s your favorite food? – Broccoli and carrots
Who’s your best friend? – GiGi!
What’s your favorite cartoon? – Ariel
What’s your favorite movie? – Tapunzel
What’s your favorite song? – Belle and Beast song, I love Allll the princesses mommy!
What’s your favorite animal? – Probably… Pluto
What are you scared of? – ::whispers:: the monsters
What makes you happy? – YOU! You make me happy mommy!
Oh the joy and the smiles on this little model’s fase, they made my day!
Amber & David ~ JW Marriott Essex House NYC
JW Marriott Essex House is a truly quintessential location for a perfect Manhattan wedding. This luxury iconic NYC hotel set in an art deco building is located just steps away from Central Park and Columbus Circle. Choosing the perfect venue for their wedding, the couple did many site visits and almost chose a venue in Long Island but then realized they ultimately and truly wanted a Manhattan wedding. The decor on the walls looked like a dream when they first walked in. It was a dream that came true!
Amber and David’s, my picture-perfect couple, met online. Here is their love story.
How and where did you and David meet?
We met on OKcupid. Our first date was on Valentine’s Day.
For how long have you been dating?
We have been dating for three years before we got engaged.
How and where did he propose?
The proposal was so wonderful! He surprised me by taking me to dinner and then he proposed near riverside park by the water. Then he took me straight to his rooftop for a party and surprised me with all my friends and family.
What did you envision your wedding being prior to planning?
I envisioned my wedding to be opulent, elegant and sophisticated with a touch or romance. I wanted the style to match the look of the magnificent chandelier in the exquisite ballroom. A Star studded event with endless dancing!
What was your color palette and your style vision?
My color palette was soft pinks and whites to go along with the stunning gold ballroom.
What unique elements or DIY details did you include?
We had a sculptural manzanita branches display with pale pink dendrobium orchids in a draping style hung with bubble glass candle holders above the seating arrangements. Something very special to me was that my 15 year old poodle (I got her for my Bat-mitzvah) was able to be in my bridal suite getting ready with the girls and taking photos with us. She wore the most adorable dress in silver to match my bridesmaids’ Alfred Sung gowns. We also had the presidential suite in the hotel with a wrap around balcony, I had a huge after party outdoors!
What was your favorite moment? Your favorite crafted detail?
When I sang “Dear Future Husband” by Meghan Trainor on stage in front of everyone and then jumped into the arms of my new husband standing in the crowd. That was by far my favorite moment. Everyone was in shock and I felt like a total rock star! One crafted detail that pops in my mind was during my parents welcome speech my Mother displayed a large picture frame with a photo of me sky diving 15,000 ft high to show how proud she was of me.
Tell us about your flowers, your gown, your favors, your cake, etc.
My bouquet was GORGEOUS. Cascading white phaleonopsis orchids. It is in the process of being preserved. The chuppah was filled with white, ivory and pale pink peonies and roses. The aisle hurricanes were gorgeous too, to match the chuppah.
My gown was designed by Romona Keveza. It had the sophistication of Grace Kelly. It was form fitting with soft ruching. Mermaid style, off the shoulder with a pearl coloring. My favorite part was the sequined lace at the bottom edges setting it apart from any other gown in similar style. My cake was stunning. L’esti’s specializes in cakes and hand painted a 5 tier white and gold cake with pearls and flowers on the top to match the room. My first look was so romantic. We had a red velvet horse and buggy pick me up to do a photo shoot.
One of my favorite details was hiring our Cantor- Shimon Craimer to sing popular tunes in Hebrew as we walked down the aisle. His voice was hauntingly beautiful and romantic. The crowd was captivated by his talented singing and the unique traditional aspects our Rabbi Exler helped us create during our ceremony from start to finish. Even my Bedeken before I walked down the aisle was so special to me.
What is one piece of advice that you could give brides-to-be?
Always make sure that you have more than one person come to your last fitting so that multiple people know how to bustle your gown. But most importantly, try not to let ANYTHING bother you that day. Brush it off.
Slideshow ~ Amber & David’s Wedding at JW Marriott Essex House NYC
Dress- Romona Keveza (from Bridal Reflections)
Shoes- Valentino
Venue- Essex House
Photographer- Artvesta Studio
Florist- Quatre Coeur
DJ (band)- Veronica Martell
Caterer – Northern Valley Affairs
Videographer- Sunnyville Films
Invitations- Invitations Plus (Crane & Co.)
Cake- L’esti’s Desserts
Lighting- Luminescence
Rabbi- Rabbi Steven Exler
Cantor- Shimon Craimer
Photo Booth- The Bosco
Hair & Makeup Team- Betsy Elisa Inc.
Sweetheart Table Linen- FloraRosa Design
Dance Lessons- Fred Astaire
Catherine and David. Carlton hotel, St. Paul’s Chapel at Columbia University, and Midtown Loft & Terrace
“Love doesn’t make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile.” —Franklin P. Jones
Life is such a wild, unpredictable adventure. No matter how much we plan, it has this way of surprising us—sometimes with bumps in the road, but often with the most beautiful, unexpected moments. One of those moments? Meeting the person you’re meant to spend your life with. At first, you don’t know it’s them. It just feels like another ordinary day. But before you know it, they become the center of your story.
Some of the most incredible moments in life are your college years and the joy of newlywed bliss. When those two worlds come together, it’s pure magic. That’s exactly what happened for Catherine and David. Catherine, a Belgian bride, and David, her Greek-American groom, first met at Columbia University as grad students. On that first day, there was no sign they’d one day walk down the aisle together. But life had other plans, and here they are—starting their next “first day” as husband and wife.
For their wedding, Catherine and David’s immediate family stayed at the elegant Carlton Hotel, where I began capturing their special day. My first shots focused on their gorgeous details—the accessories they would wear as they got ready to say “I do.”
One of my favorite moments from the morning was when David and his groomsmen gathered for a fun, quirky shot in the hotel’s Broadway Dive suite. It perfectly captured their energy and excitement, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable day.
Catherine and David’s love story is such a beautiful reminder that life’s most incredible surprises come when you least expect them. And when they do, they have a way of turning life’s ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.
The styles selected by the bride helped set the stage for the design of the festivities. The bride brought a lovely custom-made wedding dress from Belgium and went even more multi-cultural with her shoes, which were purchased in Paris, France. One of the more unforgettable accessories worn by the groomsmen were their colored socks, which coordinated to match the colors of their wives’ dresses.
With a warm and sunny wedding day greeting all guests in attendance, the weather helped reflect the mood of utter happiness and love, allowing for many smiles to exchange and spread the good cheer. The wedding ceremony itself took place at St. Paul’s Chapel at Columbia University. This beautiful chapel acts as a venue for hundreds of religious and campus events each year. Performed according to Greek tradition, during the wedding ceremony the couple exchanged Stephana crowns, to important cultural symbols that each had been handed down for generations.
Reception time!
Photography: ArtVesta Studio | Wedding planning & day-of coordination: Allie Levine Events | Getting ready: Carlton hotel | Ceremony: St. Paul’s Chapel at Columbia University | Reception: Midtown Loft & Terrace | Reverent: Mary-Rose Engle
Amber & David ~ South Street Seaport Engagement
South Street Seaport is one of my favorite locations for an engagement or a wedding photo shoot in New York City. The area is very charming and full of character. It features some of the oldest architecture in downtown Manhattan and includes the largest concentration of restored early 19th-century commercial buildings in the city.
Despite a very cold day we had a wonderful photo shoot. The courageous couple graciously posed for my camera trying to ignore the wintry gusts of wind. Scrolling through the online preview gallery a few days later, we all agreed that the result was well-worth it!
Amber and David’s, my picture-perfect couple, met online. Here is their love story.
How and where did you and David meet?
We met on OKcupid. Our first date was on Valentine’s Day.
For how long have you been dating?
We have been dating for three years before we got engaged.
How and where did he propose?
The proposal was so wonderful! He surprised me by taking me to dinner and then he proposed near riverside park by the water. Then he took me straight to his rooftop for a party and surprised me with all my friends and family.
Why did you pick Essex House as your wedding venue?
We did many site visits and almost chose a venue in LI but then realized we ultimately and truly wanted a Manhattan wedding. The decor on the walls looked like a dream when we first walked in.
Amber & David’s Engagement Photos
Sails of love on Hudson River – Karen & Vipul’s wedding on Hornblower’s Infinity.
As a professional photographer, I must say that wedding photography takes me to a place that leaves me absolutely smitten with my craft…and of course with the lovely couples that I am honored to capture in these photos.
Today, I am sharing the humble love story of bride and groom, Karen and Vipul – a love story that truly set sail for eternity from the moment they said, “I Do”.
On a beautiful and sunny New York day, the two were joined in the hands of marriage in front of their loved ones by the captain of the ship. Fusing the traditions of generations past with their own traditions to build on today, this adorable couple celebrated their love in a unique blended Indian and American wedding. The ship was docked for this moment and later set sail for an eventful reception on the bay.
The pop of colors draped across the ladies of the wedding are known as sari, while the gentlemen were tastefully suited up in their very best. The bride’s bouquet was a refreshing and robust bundle of peach and deep pink roses, light green orchids, blue lisianthus, yellow freesia, and bright pink alstroemeria. A true Indian wedding as like many other cultures is not complete without a delicious spread of tasty morsels to munch on. At Karen and Vipul’s reception there was a delightful array of traditional Indian dishes such as: Saag Paneer, Chicken Makhani, Chick Pea Cake, Khasta Alootikki Chole with Pindi, and Basmati Rice. Whilst rejoicing in smiles and laughter for the couple’s celebration of their love, guests took in views of the majestic sites of the Statue of Liberty, Freedom Tower, and the legendary Manhattan skyline.
And as every story only gets sweeter, this special day couldn’t have been completed without the bride and groom’s traditional fondant wedding cake, simply designed with a cascade of fresh flowers.
From the bride & groom – Karen and Vipul:
We met in the mid 90s at our first job out of school. Keeping in touch throughout the years, Vipul was single and partying for a while and I was in a relationship until 2012 – this is when I moved to Hoboken and reconnected with him. We started dating almost right away – he’s the most thoughtful and selfless person I know. He is also the smartest person I know, which is incredibly attractive to me. So, I fell in love with him for so many reasons. I can go on! We started dating in Fall of 2012 and got engaged in January of 2015 while we were on vacation in Aruba – we went there for New Year’s Eve and my birthday which is on January 2nd, 2015 and got engaged on January 1st, 2015. Vipul proposed to me on the beach in Aruba. It was incredibly sweet.
We started planning the wedding in March of 2015. Vipul had the idea of getting married on a boat in NYC because he grew up in Hoboken and went to high school in NYC so the area is near and dear to his heart. When we had seen the Hornblower Infinity, we were both instantly sold! It was amazing! we went on a ‘test’ cruise and it was absolutely beautiful. The scenery, the atmosphere, the quality of the Hornblower amenities were all amazing. We booked the boat and all of the vendors that John Barrall suggested were amazing! We got the venue in the Spring and I started meeting with vendors in April/May…And this is when we met our incredible photographer Tatiana Valerie – we loved her right away!
We booked the honeymoon to Mauritius and Maldives in March and sent out the save the dates in June.
Our honeymoon was absolutely amazing. The wedding planning was really from March through September – yes September! We had found out that we couldn’t get officially married on a moving vessel, so we actually got married before the reception as well. We got officially married on August 8th, 2015 and the reception was September 26th, 2015. My nieces and nephew were the flower girls and ring bearer. Neither of us are planners and we we left a bunch of stuff until last minute but it all worked out perfectly. We wanted both of our parents to be part of the day so we had a dance with each parent which was so awesome. The wedding day itself was so much fun! We really enjoyed the day!
I would recommend to anyone all the vendors that John Barrall suggested. John at Hornblower himself was wonderful and such a pleasure to work with! Tatiana Valerie, our photographer, Deborah at City Sweets and our florist in Hoboken Flowers By Diane were all amazing.
The party was incredible, everyone had so much fun!
Contact Hornblower’s Wedding Specialist John Barrall today to inquire about having your wedding on a Hornblower Yacht : 646-576-8410 | [email protected]
Hotel: W Hoboken
Ceremony & Reception: Hornblower Infinity
Cake: City Sweets & Confections
Flowers: Flowers by Diane
Photography: Artvesta Studio
Celebration of love and equality at MAD, NYC
This beautiful and long-awaited celebration of true love and equality lit up festive lights for the couple’s family and friends at Robert restaurant, on October 11th, 2014. Ricky and Seth, two beautiful souls, united in a marriage at the New York City marriage clerk’s office a few days prior to their MAD (Museum of Art and Design) reception.
Ricky and Seth’s love story is very inspiring – It was truly meant to be! It all started in 2001 when Seth and his best friend were going to spend some time off in Provincetown, but for some unknown reason, their train got stuck in the middle of Connecticut and clearly they were going to miss their way to Provincetown that day. All of a sudden Seth said, “We should fly in!” and they did! They rented a tiny plane and had made it in that night. This is where and when Ricky & Seth met.
Being a wedding photographer is a special privilege. I feel very fortunate to be able to witness and capture the most festive and happy moments of peoples’ lives – The timelessness of a couples’ love for each other gives me the inspiration to be able to do so. Get out your tissues and prepare yourselves for a tear jerking devotion from Seth to Ricky.
You are my husband because you love Barbra Streisand as much as I do. You believe that doing things like taking photos of the Freedom Tower as it was going up every few days from the same spot across the city was an important and valuable thing to do, and it absolutely is. If I sniffle, you will volunteer to go across town to eat chicken in a pot at a 2nd avenue deli. You like what you like because you like it, and not because you are supposed to like it. And because there is no-one else I would rather spend the rest of my life with, rather grow old with, listen to Barbra Streisand with, and watch James Bond movies with…I love you with all my heart and I cannot imagine spending the rest of my life together with anyone else.
It has been a long time coming for same-sex couples in the United States. Yes, New York was the largest state to allow gay marriage back in June of 2011, however this was not the case for many other of the nation’s states. This could have proven to be the battle of a lifetime for gay couples and their supporters – One could still argue to this day, who has the right to tell you that you cannot marry the love of your life? At the end of the day, isn’t love the one constant that we’re all searching for to make us whole? With mountain moving abilities of same-sex couples and supporters of gay marriage, some four years after New York was legalized, the rest of the nation united in one of the most significant civil rights events that the world has ever witnessed – The legalization of gay marriage across all fifty states on June 26, 2015. There were eyes from across the globe that lit up with inspiration and souls filled with the spirits of eager same-sex couples flooding the courts to make it official. It was truly a celebration for the American people, and I got to capture one of the country’s greatest love affairs: The story of Ricky and Seth.
Kayla & Joe’s Photo Shoot in Florence, Italy
On May 23rd, 2015 I had a pleasure of photographing this beautiful and loving couple — high-school sweethearts Kayla and Joe. American natives, they are currently living in Florence as Joe was offered a 1 year fellowship to continue his specialized research with a lab at the University of Florence.
I was so fascinated with their story that I asked Kayla to share it with me and I would like to share it with the world!
How and when did you meet?
We met in 2007 when we were both still in high school. Joe winked at me in the lunch room and it was love at first sight… or something like that. Joe was the goof-ball, older Senior that was off to college, and I was a goody two-shoes Sophomore. We dated for 3 years long distance while Joe was in college, but as he started to engage more in his Physics degree (who would have thought for the class clown!) and I went to college in Minnesota, we decided to go our separate ways. We were apart for 2 years and it was great for us to have our own college experiences. He came to Minnesota in 2011 to complete his Masters’ degree; we reconnected then and have been dating ever since. A few years really helps you grow up! We graduated from undergrad/grad school at the same time, and moved out to Seattle to pursue our respective careers. He is continuing on his education with a Ph.D. at the University of Washington in Biomedical Engineering, and I was working in HR at Amazon.
If you don’t mind, can you please tell me again what brought you both to Florence?
Joe was offered a 1 year fellowship to continue his specialized research with a lab at the University of Florence. It was offered only a few weeks before they needed him to start, but we decided to go for it. While I enjoyed my job back in the states, I felt like I was missing something while trapped in my office cubicle, and I knew we could make it work. After a few short weeks, and many, many hours of paperwork (and bottles of wine), we were living in Florence. He’s now working with a lab at the University, and I’m leading bike and wine tours throughout Tuscany and teaching English as a foreign language. I got the better deal out of the move, if you ask me!
What is your favorite aspect of living in Italy?
The wine and pasta, of course! All kidding aside.. we enjoy the simplicity of life. Nothing is rushed (including paperwork!), no one glorifies the concept of busy, and quality family time is a priority. We’re very used to convenience back at home, and it was an adjustment to go to six different stores before we could find the household “essential” we were looking for. However, now we’ve come to love that aspect because with it comes the simplicity and appreciation of everyday life in Italy. People take their time here and are very present in each moment. Families spend hours eating dinner, and you can still spot the Italians admiring the beautiful the country they live in. It really doesn’t get old. It’s a simple life here, but it is so beautiful.
How long are you going to stay there?
We arrived in February of 2015 and we’re going to stay until at least April of 2016. We’re still at the beginning stages of the move, so our return date could adjust based on Joe’s research progress. However, staying here legally requires a lot of paperwork, so we will only be able to stay as long as Italy allows us.
Do you think you learned something or took something away from your experience living in Italy?
We learn something every single day, even if it’s just another word in Italian. Living in a foreign country is the most amazing and exhausting thing we’ve ever done. Every single day we’re amazed by the beauty of this country, and every single day we come home mentally exhausted. The language and culture differences are always noticeable, regardless of how long you’ve lived here. However, the language is beautiful and the culture is precious and one we’ve learned to appreciate. The quality of life is the main focus here, and something that we often overlook back at home. It’s very easy to get sucked into the daily grind, and we hope to bring back the new mentality that Italy has given us. Our outlook on what is important has shifted. That doesn’t mean we won’t be working long hours once we return, but it does mean we will appreciate the little things just a little more after living here.
Why did you want to have professional photos of you in Florence?
Florence is a place that will always be special to us. After living here for 4 months, we realized that we didn’t have a single picture together while exploring these streets that have become our home. We often grab our morning coffee at Volume, go out for dinner near Santo Spirito, and bike across Ponte Santa Trinita to get home. We now have wonderful pictures in all of these places. I wanted to look back on our year in Florence and have nice pictures of us that came from someone with an eye for photography and not from a selfie stick. These pictures have not only captured this city, but have also captured where we are at in our relationship/lives. This was a big move for us, one that has brought us closer and made us stronger, and now every time we look at these pictures we can always remember the dolce vita di Firenze. 
©2015- Tatiana Valerie, Artvesta Studio
Sarah and Rossi’s New York City Elopement
Sarah & Rossi eloped to New York City in early September 2015. We had been corresponding with Sarah for over a year prior to our meeting in New York on their wedding day. What a sweet and beautiful couple they are! I immediately noticed how Rossi’s calm demeanor perfectly balances out Sarah’s vibrant and bubbly personality. They were clearly a match made in heaven. Fascinated and infatuated with the pair, I asked Sarah and Rossi to share their love story with me and with the world.
1) How and when did you meet Rossi and when did you both understand that you were meant to be together?
We met in college, Rossi was playing at a college gig that night and the time didn’t suit me and the girls. So I marched up to him & told him to play later……. but then I didn’t turn up in till well after his gig was over. Oops! BUT… Rossi says for him it was love at first sight (such a cutie!)
2) What are the most memorable moments of your “dating” times?
Wow there’s a lot of times – it took him 5 dates before he kissed me! He dropped me off at work. I produced a Dublin Radio psychic show Fri & Sun nights and was chatting to the girls and said “feck this!” and called him and asked him straight out!
We both kinda just never thought of being with someone else when we got together – it was never oh we’ll see where it goes – we just knew it was the fit for us. Although I do remember the 1st vacation we went on. Rossi had never been on a plane & was acting really weird – he didn’t want to tell me he was nervous. Rossi remembers giving me driving lessons at the start – it was the first time meeting outside of college. He claims I was a bad driver — I just didn’t know how to drive!
3) Why did you pick New York for your elopement? Why did you decide to get married in Central Park at Chess and Checkers house?
We LOVE New York! I had worked there 2 summers while in college so the 1st yr when we bought our house I got Rossi a Christmas pressie — a trip to the states! We’ve visited quite a few times over the years. 2.5 yrs ago on May 5th 2013 we were walking through Central Park and stumbled upon the Chess & Checkers House over looking the carousel & Rossi proposed! I was so shocked – happily so!
So when planning a wedding it was so easy for us – elope to New York, our favorite city, where Rossi proposed . I have a very good friend I met all those yrs ago who lives in Long Island so we were lucky enough to have her as bridesmaid & her husband join us!
Our day was just fantastic, really it’s like a fairy tail! We woke up together & exchanged gifts, then Kelly & Mike arrived. Myself & Kelly headed off to get our hair done, then into MAC in Macy’s for makeup. We went back to the hotel where we met you!
It was so relaxed getting ready. Rossi sent up champagne strawberries & chocolate to have while getting ready. We had told my parents, Rossi’s dad, my closest friends & Rossi’s friend. I was skyping me family throughout (We had gifts for them. Then sashes for mother/father/sister of the bride. We had left some champagne & arranged food so fun party decorations for them) then it was off to get lost in the park at the Zoo.
We were married by a lovely officiator where Rossi proposed then had such a wonderful time getting our pictures taken around Central Park before heading to the Plaza. We had champagne cocktails, a bike carrier brought us to the boat house in the park for dinner, then hit grand central for pictures, and finished up in 230 fifth where we had our first dance cocktails and more food & fun!
Yelena & Alex’s Wedding in Dominican Republic
Jet-setting Wedding in the Tropics
This is a story about Yelena and Alex, two jet-setting New Yorkers who held not one, but two ceremonies — a New Year’s Eve wedding in New York City and a summer wedding in paradise in the Dominican Republic.
Yelena is studying to be a doctor in Atlanta and Alex is a businessman. He moved down to Atlanta temporarily just to be with his beautiful and talented wife to be!
Their love story started at their mutual friend’s birthday party where they first saw each other. Alex was smitten by Yelena’s beauty at first sight. However, he tried his best to hide it by giving her a hard time asking tough questions. Yelena took a bit of convincing, but a year and a half later the delightful couple had an elegant NYC city hall wedding on NYE to make their relationship official.
Despite the NY ceremony, Yelena and Alex wanted a destination wedding and the religious ceremony at The Paradisus Palma Real in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Yelena and Alex took the term fun summer wedding to the whole new level by jetting their entire family and closest friends from all over the world to the gorgeous Caribbean island. Their pre-wedding “White Party” was jam packed with super fun activities such as dancing and singing on the beach, while enjoying some of the region’s finest food, hand-made cigars, and signature drinks.
The wedding was a flawless and elegant affair that started with a cocktail hour on the main terrace of the all-inclusive five-star Paradisus Palma Real resort, following by a Jewish wedding ceremony at the garden and reception at the wedding pavilion.
I started my day a few minutes before 1 o’clock with photographing some behind-the-scenes of hair & makeup, details, and preparations. Both bride’s & groom’s hotel rooms had gorgeous ocean views from their oversized balconies and I was delighted to take advantage of the exotic marine backdrops by snapping some portraits and family photos.
My favorite moments of the weddings were the first look, the first kiss in the end of the ceremony, horah dance and lifting the Bride & Groom on the chairs, and always emotional parents’ dance.
This destination wedding was a real trip to paradise and I wish I could turn back time to re-live it all over again.
A fairy-tale wedding in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Photography: Tatiana Valerie
Videography: Emiliano Rosemberg at Tripic One Studio
Hair & Makeup: Krystie Ann
Catering, venue, cake: Paradisus Palma Real, Punta Cana
Shoes: Sergio Rossi
Dress: Vera Wang via Saks 5th Avenue
Mc& DJ: Irina Gleyzer & Arthur Marants
Jessica and Andres’ Wedding at The Water’s Edge, NYC
“When I first brought Andres home – keep in mind we were only 17 years old – he showed up to pick me up in a cowboy hat, leather cuffs and a cut-off shirt. My mom was terrified and kept asking me if he was dangerous and saying “please tell me you don’t like this guy!” I assured her that he was harmless and from then on, he slowly crept into her heart” – Jessica
Jessica and Anders were married April 12th 2015 and met October 4th 2005. Both moving from Florida to New York together their story is anything but your typical high school sweetheart story. Jessica coming from a Jewish American family and Anders Catholic Columbian their wedding was a magnificent fusion of cultures.
Being raised by a protective single mom, when Jessica brought Anders home for the first time she thought he was dangerous. But as time passed her mom came to know how wonderful Anders really was. They laugh about it to this day. Jessica and Anders attended prom together. Anders younger sister was 2 when they started dating and now, as a young lady was Jessica’s Maid of Honor. Organizing for two very different cultures was an adventure for both of them. Jessica who is now fluent in Spanish encouraged certain American traditions to Anders family (like not wearing a wedding dress to someone else’s wedding!) while Anders encouraged a bilingual Rabbi so the ceremony could be celebrated by everyone.
An intimate, elegant, affair, with 100 of their closest family and friends they married under a Chuppa at the Waters Edge overlooking the city. The men wore yamulkas then they danced the night away to Columbian Merengue, Salsa and the Hora.
Appetizers were empanadas among other columbian foods. Instead of a guest book they placed make a wish stones in an elegant basket where guests could write a wish for the couple on the stones for them to keep. Royal Photo Booth provided some hilarious photos with multicultural props. While guests could post their own photos with their personal Instagram hashtag.
Jessica’s style was classic but contemporary. To enhance her gorgeous blush dress Amy from Amy Klewitz Beauty and Jessica decided on a textured side chignon that perfectly accompanied her vintage headband and earrings.
Knowing Jessica’s love for makeup Amy airbrushed a flawless coverage and accentuated her eyes with some false lashes that Jessica, never wanted to take off. Tatiana Valerie from Atrvesta Studios captured the moment and lighting from the city perfectly, to make it one memorable night for everyone.
Cinematic Video Teaser for Jessica & Andres — Water’s Edge, NYC
Wedding Slideshow – Andres and Jessica’s Wedding at The Water’s Edge
The couple’s wedding books came out gorgeous!
Event Professionals:
Photography: Tatiana Valerie, Artvesta Studio
Hair & Makeup: Amy Klewitz Beauty
Photo Booth: Royal Photo Booth, Laura Adaza
Chuppah: Your Chuppah NY
Wedding Dress: Casablanca
Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Venue: The Water’s Edge
A City Hall Wedding on December 31st, 2014 in New York City
This couple is very near and dear to my heart, Yelena and Alex. I was honored to photograph the City Hall wedding of these beautiful people — beautiful inside and out. Yelena and Alex decided to tie the knot on December 31st while visiting their families on a school break. Yelena is studying in Atlanta, GA to become a doctor.
It is pretty awesome that the City Hall in New Your City is open on December 31st! There were people lined up outside of City Hall at 7:30 AM — an hour before the doors opened. Finally, at about 8:45 the couple was checked in and given a number for the clerk window. At the window they and their two witnesses were asked to sign the marriage
certificate. At that point the couple was formally married. There was a ring exchange ceremony ahead and we all looked forward to it!
The ring exchange ceremony lasted about five minutes but it was a very nice touch to the overall very formal process of officially registering a new family (to learn about the whole process of marriage license application in New York City, please take a look at this article.)
After we were done with formalities, we headed uptown for some really cool photos at Grand Central Terminal, followed by photos at Washington Square Park and the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. We had a lot of fun and took some great photos.
During our photography session we also filmed Yelena and Alex’s NYC Love Story.
Rain or Shine – Wedding in Montauk, NY at Sole
The Couple:
Pearl is a professional model, a dancer, and a singer and she was a lead performer a Hairspray musical in 2006. Michael owns a media production company. They met on a Hairspray tour in 2006 in Atlantic City where they spent nine weeks playing.
The Proposal:
Michael proposed a few years later when they finally had a weekend that they could spend together in New York. They were visiting their friend Christopher, they rented bikes and rode all around the city. During a brunch together Michael asked his friend to take a photo of Pearl and him. Michael had not just a camera but also Pearl’s ring in his pocket and it all worked out perfectly because Christopher documented how Michael got down on his knee to propose to Pearl and she said YES!
The Wedding:
In the perfect storybook fashion, Pearl and Michael held their wedding in the Hamptons keying in on the recent 1920’s revival.
Pearl and Michael’s wedding was designed and inspired by the opalescent 1920’s beach town wedding. Great Gatsby vintage chic, the Hamptons charm, and the Brooklyn hipster style were blended perfectly into a beautiful intimate celebration.
Even though the day turned out rainy, a few spatters did not make it even a bit less perfect. The couple picked The Montauk Point Lighthouse as a “first look” destination and the location could not have been more perfect — the scenery of the place is breathtaking! The Montauk Point Lighthouse is the fourth oldest active lighthouse in the United States and in 2012 it was designated a National Historic Landmark.
The ceremony and reception took place at the garden of Sole Hotel & Resort under a tent. The highlight of the reception was bride’s bouquet toss. The bride’s gay single friend decided to participate and try his luck along with “all the single ladies, who put their hands up” and he was the one who caught the bouquet!
The wedding was a lot of fun and was a beautiful beginning of Pearl and Michael’s new life as a husband and wife.
From the photographer:
For a photographer shooting in the rain is always tricky. I had to bring three camera bodies and six various lenses with me and carry them in my camera bag at all times to make sure that I always have dry and working equipment. Having sufficient backup photo equipment is crucial for a wedding photographer because weddings have very structured timelines and there is no second chance to re-take the photos.
An amazing iPhone app called Dark Sky worked great for predicting short 5-minute “no rain” windows of time allowing us to plan our “between the pours” ventures outside for taking photos.
Great shoot overall but it required a lot of planning and preparations. Congrats once again, Pearl and Michael! May you be showered with limitless love and happiness for many happy years to come!
Photography: Tatiana Valerie, Artvesta Studio
Flowers: FLO NY Events
Rings: Custom Made by Laura Lobdell
Venue: Sole East, Montauk, NY