The ceremony was held at a Congregation Beth Or and the reception at Golden Gates Restaurant both outside of Philadelphia.  And as perfect as that day was the day after was even better – at least for me.  They met us in Center City for their personal shoot and we kept them there as long as we could.    And did I mention the videographer?  I don’t know if it’s common knowledge but often videographers and photographers end up being competitors rather than creating a feeling of mutual respect realizing their goals are the same; to get what the couple wants.  Well, this guy was NOT like that.  He was not only professional but really helpful.  Thanks Darrell.  Here’s a slideshowof the event.  Thanks Yan.  Thanks Lynne.  It was great!

Starting with the ‘Welcome-All’ feel at the Rehearsal Dinner right through morning-after brunch the entire mood of this Event Wedding was one of peace and love. 

It was enough that it was an historic mansion – outside of Boston – in the fall – on an Indian Summer day.  That alone would have made it feel perfect.  But when I saw the groom call his bride on an exotic instrument (its name I’ve sadly forgotten) and there she came down the grassy aisle escorted first by her father and met then by her step- father, all without an ounce of anxiety or nervousness, I knew this would be exceptional. 

A beautiful bowl was provided for guests (‘guests’ now sounds far too formal a description – we’ll say loved ones) to contribute tokens of well wishes, kind thoughts and other positive notions. Then everyone was told they could stand and say something if they’d like.  The couple sat embracing elegantly in front of an apple orchard.  Seriously.  A goose-filled apple orchard in New England in autumn.  Could you have scripted this any better?

The sentiments expressed by each offering was so much weightier than the actual words.  The tone of voices and intensity of glances as well as free flowing tears could be nothing less than expressions of genuine love – and like-  for this couple.

So if this isn’t enough you go into the tent just feet from  said goose-filled orchard  and see an exquisitely elegant, personal space with a great, I mean great band at the far end (Soul City out of Boston).  I’ve done a few weddings and will admit that I’ve begun to cringe at the sight of wedding bands.  They’ve made me come to understand why some brides throw 30-Gig of music on their Ipods, plug it in and let them go.  Not this band. They were classy, tasteful, fun and loved what they did.  Every age group felt compelled to move with them. 

Of course no band, no matter how good, can top a surprise serenade from a groom to his bride.  Especially if he can sing.  And he can; it’s what he does.  And especially if she can dance; she can, it’s what she does. 

There were tiers of cupcakes instead of a traditional cake; the bride was in sleeveless (how did she know it was going to hit nearly 80 degrees?); the music hit all the right notes and got everyone up. Nothing about this event was traditional. 

But it was all about love.  That many people could never fake that depth of affection.  Right through the brunch the next day.  All hugs.  Some hugs saved up for decades and let loose, others offered feely as an extension from the night before. 

Every wedding is an honor.  To be asked to record such pivotal, intimate events is a privilege not lost upon me. But when I’m actually in the midst of it, there seeing the emotion and then browsing through the evidence I’m reminded just how fantastic a job I have.  Thank you Korinne and Mac.  And let me lend my voice in the seemingly endless line of voices offering you well wishes.

October 08, 2007

well it’s done.  Nic, my nephew is married.  I have to say, I think overall I did very well – no one saw me shed a tear.   Being back in New England in late September is just beautiful.  Their intimate wedding was held at Nic’s dad and stepmom’s house with just family and close friends.  Before the wedding Tiffany had her bridal shoot, which I must say went very well!  Having not met her and hearing how shy she was I didn’t know what to expect.  But she was great.  One of the great private schools just over the Massachusettes state line was closed down but provided a wonderful backdrop.  They had the First Look there as well so that they could stay at the wedding site after the ceremony.  I can say now that being there was great priviledge but still pretty emotional.  I know it sounds like every mother (or aunt) but as I watch them together it was hard to stay professional.  Remembering little moments with him while simultaneously photographing one of the bigges days in his life was – well, it was an honor. 

I’m just now getting to post the slideshow because right after the wedding in New Hampshire we flew back and then drove to Kentucky for a week of volunteer service.  It was such a pleasant suprise.  I’ll be posting some pictures in just a couple of days.  In the meantime here’s a link to Nic & Tiffany’s day.