New York Weddings

Having a really hard time deciding which beautiful images to post is not a bad problem to have. So I can’t fault Bryce Covey for capturing this gem that has left me reworking image combinations for the better part of the morning. And you can’t fault me for stuffing this post to the gills with boards. Fourteen to be exact. It’s just the way I roll when I come across a wedding too good to edit down. So four hours and three cups of coffee later, I present to you the loveliest rendition of New York nuptials. It’s a wedding with easy elegance and details by DM Events that could fit into a beautiful dinner party or Brooklyn wedding alike. See so much more right here in the full gallery.

From Melina of DM Events… As a designer, one of the greatest feelings (and challenges) is when another creative soul wants to collaborate with you – especially on their wedding day! That is how we felt about Stephanie + John from the moment we met them. They continued to inspire us throughout the design process with both their creativity, and love for one another.

With its unique industrial design, the Wythe Hotel was the prefect venue for them (the unbelievably delicious food was also a major plus!) Our design was created to pair the style of the hotel with Stephanie + John’s personal love for Alice in Wonderland. We knew that the colors and whimsy normally associated with Alice and Wonderland were not a fit for the design aesthetic of the venue so we focused on other elements and terminology from the story including vintage pocket watches and old monocles. One of the most fun details was the signage created – Eat Me and Drink Me signs were placed at the dessert bar and cocktail bar, respectively – an adorable and hilarious nod to the couple’s fav story.

Stephanie, a talented photographer, truly understood the importance of artistic photographs of the big day. The uber talented Bryce Covey took stunning photographs, both digitally and on film, of the couple. His ability to capture the true beauty and love of the day is genius. Our favorite moment of the night remains the couple’s first look – you can feel the emotion of moment in each picture, and that is what it is all about!

Wedding Photography: Bryce Covey Photography / Wedding Venue: Wythe Hotel in Brooklyn, New York / Wedding Planning, Design, Florals: DM Events Planning and Design / Wedding Cake: Nine Cakes / DJ: DJ Kev of Scratch Weddings / Wedding Dress: Kenneth Pool / Bride’s Shoes: Manolo Blahnik / Bride’s Earrings: Erickson Beamon / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J. Mendel / Bride’s Mother’s Dress: Vera Wang / Hair: Thomas Dunkin & Amber / Makeup: Lindsey Jones / Groom’s Tux: John Varvatos / Groom’s Shoes: Alden / Groom’s Cuff Links + Pocketsquare: Vintage / Bride + Groom’s Custom Rings: Kristen Farrell / Wedding Brunch: Roberta’s

Sometimes a set of images come along too magnificent to fit into one post. So we’re taking up two today to showcase what one can only describe as perfection. And that perfection is at the hands of Carmen Santorelli. I truly believe that art is a reflection of the hand that creates it. If that hand is lovely and effervescent with a rockin good hairdo, then you best believe her art is going to reflect beauty and style too. So meet Carmen’s latest creation, an engagement of a soon-to-be Mr. and Mrs. that were a long time in the making. Twelve years to be exact. Their loves include good wine and each other and they have a whole engagement gallery to prove it. Click here for so much more.

We’re going from engagement pics right through to I Do. We’ll have the full wedding behind this couple up in a bit, but for now we leave you with a few getting ready shots. They’re classic, elegant, all those things you want to be when dreaming up your big day. This Bride nailed it and just wait until you see the full affair. Or you can grab a sneak peek right here.

From the Bride… The day of our October engagement shoot felt more like a gorgeous July afternoon. When we arrived at City Winery, Carmen was already there, snapping some shots of the barrels and art. It was only the second time we had met her, but it felt like we were catching up with an old friend. She took the first few photos of Nate, while makeup artist Erica Ogawa added the final touches to my makeup. Nate seemed so relaxed, as my stomach began to churn–what if we didn’t smile enough, or too much?! Carmen told us to act like we were on our first date, which was 12 years ago. We were a little rusty, but I think it worked.

The next three hours flew by, from the streets around the Seaport, to Pier 17, to the Brooklyn Bridge. Staring into Nate’s eyes for so long, I remembered why I fell in love with him, and why he has been my best friend since I was 16. Carmen guided us through every pose, and was dedicated to capturing each shot perfectly. The only hitch was when my heels kept getting stuck between the deck boards on the pier! It was a better day than we could have imagined, and resulted in such fun memories that will last forever.

For the Engagement – Photography: Carmen Santorelli Photography / Hair + Makeup: Erica Ogawa and for the Wedding – Photography: Carmen Santorelli Photography / Second Photography: Falcon Photography / Day-of Wedding Coordination: Sara Kate Events / Wedding Dress: Lazaro via Kleinfeld  / Bride’s Shoes: Anne Klein via Macy’s / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Jenny Yoo / Bridesmaids’ Earrings: lifefavors / Hair + Makeup: Erica Ogawa

If this wedding doesn’t get you feeling all cozy and full of love, then I don’t know what will. It’s filled with so many rich and gorgeous colors, plus a beautiful tea ceremony. Ava Weddings captured all the pretty details including a super fun polaroid tree for all the guests to fill up with silly and sweet images and messages. See even more right here.

From Ava Weddings… This wedding was filled with ruby red hues, garden views, family traditions (a tea ceremony and the bride’s gorgeous red dress that she revealed later at the reception), and the most adorable reception idea: a Polaroid tree! Guests just loved taking Polaroid images of themselves and of the bride and groom and hanging them on the tree set up in the middle of the reception hall, a beautiful greenhouse venue in Brooklyn called The Palm House. Earlier in the day, the couple partook in a traditional tea ceremony, during which the bride’s family was formally introduced to the groom’s family. It was very elegant and intimate. Rich in color, this wedding featured crimson in the bride’s gorgeous, classic bouquet, in the rose tree centerpieces and in her surprise outfit change later in the evening. The red hues were paired occasional with plum, which was also the color of the bridesmaids’ dresses.

Wedding Photography: Sara Harper-Hudson + Ted Hudson of Ava Weddings / Wedding Venue: The Palm House / Catering: CharlesSallyCharles Catering / Floral Design: Sviba Floral Decorator / Wedding Cake: Ana Parzych Cakes / DJ: DJ Trife from Scratch Weddings / Wedding Dress: Rented from Miracle Wedding Studio / Bride’s Shoes: Enzo Angiolini / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bari Jay / Groom’s Suit: Men’s Wearhouse

Brooklyn has a way, doesn’t it? A way of being oh-so-city yet soft at the same time. Stylish yet sweet. Chic yet charming. And that little borough always seems to host weddings that make you stop and stay awhile. Weddings precisely like this one from Brookelyn Photography. Hosted by a couple that is so in love and so in tune with their style, it all just seems effortless. But just one peek at the Bride’s description below and you know that she had the most beautiful vision for her big day…and one look at all the pretty in the gallery, and you’ll know that her vision came to life and then some. See it here.

And there is more beautiful Brooklyn and this stylish duo featured in the fabulous film from Kiss the Bride Films…

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From the Bride… Our wedding day could not have happened on a more auspicious date – July 14, 2012, which also happens to be my parents’ wedding anniversary! It was very special to be able to kick off our marriage by celebrating 36 years of my parents’ own marriage. We wanted the wedding to be beautiful and elegant, but also quirky, fun, and unexpected. Both of our professional backgrounds and personal interests are rooted in food, design, and hospitality (he is a chef, I’m in restaurant branding/marketing, and now we work together), so there was a lot of pressure and expectation (mostly self-imposed!) to throw a great party! But what I really loved about our wedding was how very personal it was, and that so many of our friends and family were a part of it: amongst other things – my friend Travis designed our amazing invitations, Seamus’ sister-in-law Daria officiated the ceremony (cracking up the whole room when she opened with the “Mawwage…” line from The Princess Bride), her sister Kate played the cello, Seamus’ friend Craig Robinson designed his suit, my dear friend DJ did my hair, and one of our friends did the gorgeous florals.

Perhaps most memorable of all was the food! The Brooklyn Winery very graciously allowed us to provide the food ourselves. We asked 4 of his chefs/protégés to do us the honor of cooking for our wedding, and asked a close chef friend of ours to oversee it. The food was amazing – all the guests were blown away and said it was the best food they’d ever had at a wedding! It was all the more special to us because our friends were behind it. For dessert, instead of having a cake, we had his and hers religieuses (mini stacked cream puffs) and macarons, gelato truffles and mini popsicles, and Stumptown Coffee provided bottled iced coffee, which was perfect for the warm July night!

I had a very clear vision of our wedding’s look and feel (and I have A LOT of mood boards to show for it!). I wanted it to be swank and sophisticated, with a bit of old-world glamour (hence getting ready at The Nomad Hotel, a stunning European-inspired boutique hotel in an old Beaux-Arts building), but also untraditional and different. We loved the Brooklyn Winery because the interior wine bar had a great antique feel with its pressed tin ceiling and vintage wallpaper, while the main space skewed more modern and industrial. I wanted it to look as if the set designer from Downtown Abbey took off with a truckload of props and set up shop in industrial Williamsburg!

I have 2 favorite parts of the wedding. The first was when Seamus surprised me with a ukulele serenade in the middle of his vows! He sang “You Send Me” by Sam Cooke, with a little help from the entire audience, led by our friend and talented musician Nick Africano. My second favorite part was my dance with my dad! We danced to “Wonderful World,” also by Sam Cooke, one of my favorite songs; my father is a professor and an academic, so the lyrics and all the mention of history, science, geometry, seemed too perfect to pass up! The wedding really was everything we had hoped for, to be surrounded by good food, good wine, and so much love.

Wedding Photography: Brookelyn Photography / Second Photographer: Katie Osgood Photography / Venue: Brooklyn Winery in Brooklyn, New York / Pre-Wedding Location: The NoMad Hotel in New York, New York / Wedding Planning + Design: The Bride / Wedding Coordination: Daughter of Design / Officiant: Daria Sanford /  Wedding Cinematography: Kiss the Bride Films / Catering: Friends of the Bride & Groom / Desserts: Dominique Ansel Bakery + Il Laborotorio del Gelato / Coffee: Stumptown Coffee Roasters / Ceremony Music: Kate Sanford Spingarn / DJ: Tomas Delos Reyes / Wedding Invitations: Designed by Travis Schnupp + Printed by Peter Kruty Editions / Day-Of Stationery: DIY by the Bride / Wedding Dress: Amy Kuschel via Gabriella New York Bridal Salon / Bride’s Shoes: Jean-Michel Cazabat / Bride’s Jewelry: Kate Ketzal / Bride’s Hair: DJ Quintero / Bride’s Makeup: Andrew Sotomayor / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Amsale / Groom’s Suit: Custom Made by Craig Robinson / Groomsmen’s Suits: J.Crew

When you love calling NYC your home, but also enjoy escaping into nature, as this couple does, there’s seriously no better place to hold your wedding than at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. The beyond beautiful greenhouse with gorgeous glass walls and ceilings makes for the most romantic view of the stars in the entire city. Ciro Photography captured all the details and there’s even more to see right here.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… We had such a blast at our wedding, which I think is captured perfectly in the images taken by Rich Ciro, our incredible photographer. Our families and friends are still talking about how beautiful Rich’s work is – I feel like he gave us a true family heirloom with our wedding photos.

After getting engaged in beautiful Santorini, Greece, Brian and I spent the next four months looking for the perfect place to get married. We wanted a place that reflected who we are as a couple – two people who love calling New York City home, but who also enjoy escaping the urban scene from time to time to enjoy nature. As soon as I saw Palm House at The Brooklyn Botanic Garden, I knew it perfectly captured what we were looking for in a venue. The Palm House’s gorgeous, 18th-century-style, glass-domed conservatory and lush, wild terrariums inspired our color palette of green and gray, our floral arrangements and our invitations. Instead of traditional centerpieces, I worked with our wonderful florist, Kea Morgan of Sweet & Flower in Brooklyn, to create individual, natural terrariums on each table, which worked beautifully in the space. My favorite piece that Kea designed was our chuppah, which was built from natural birch and from which dangled delicate glass bulbs filled with orchids and candles. It looked like something out of a fairy tale. Our invitations, designed by the seriously talented team at Dapper Paper, echoed the look and feel of the evening with old-fashioned typeface and handcrafted botanical prints. I loved working on the invites almost as much as I loved wearing my wedding dress by Ines DiSanto, which I did not want to take off when the night was over.

Wedding Photography: Ciro Photography / Wedding Venue + Catering: Palm House at The Brooklyn Botanical Garden in Brooklyn, New York / Floral Design: Kea Morgan of Sweet & Flower / Wedding Invitations: Dapper Paper / Music: DJ Sparber / Wedding Dress: Ines DiSanto / Bride’s Shoes: Pour La Victoire / Hair: Kozmo Fahringer / Makeup: Gloss and Shadow

Wednesday’s 12.12.12 concert benefitting Hurricane Sandy was a stark reminder that even though some have fully recovered from the storm, there are many still dealing with the devastation left behind.  This gorgeous e-session from CLY CREATION was taken at the Brooklyn Bridge Park + Jane’s Carousel in September, just a month before the storm. These images, so full of light and a true celebration of LOVE serve as a reminder of what was and what will be again! See the rest in the full gallery.

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From the Bride… During the tragic Hurricane Sandy, our beloved city was hit. Here is a tribute to one of the five boroughs that was damaged by the storm: Brooklyn. These were our engagement photos, taken at the Brooklyn Bridge Park in September, a month before the storm. Jane’s Carousel, the beautiful carousel in the park, was one of my favorite parts of the park that we took pictures by for our engagement shoot. Sadly, the carousel was flooded during the storm. My husband and I have been together for seven years now, and we’ve always enjoyed Brooklyn because of its many restaurants, beautiful parks and, of course, the majestic Brooklyn Bridge.  We hope to see our city flourish again.

Photography: CLY CREATION / Location: Brooklyn, New York / Cinematography: Ricky Mercuri (The Groom) / Bride’s Floral Dress: LF / Bride’s Sequin Dress: Anna Sui / Shoes: Chinese Laundry / Hair + Makeup: Eunjung Kim of OMBRE J MAKEUP

Fun fact: I love love love Brooklyn and all things New York City history, i.e. I’ve read about 3 books (and counting) in the past year just on the subject and my most adored sections are the ones in beautiful Brooklyn. It has a personality all its own and this wedding from Lindsay Madden Photography has just the right amounts of simplicity and genuine character to fit right in to the gorgeous neighborhood that is Cobble Hill. Find every spectacular moment right here in the gallery.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… After having been dating for seven years and engaged for an additional 1.5, the first priority we had for our wedding was “get married.” The second goal was “throw a great party.” The idea of a large, formal affair was just not who we were anymore, if it ever had been — no ball gowns and bouquet tosses for this couple.

Once we decided that we were going to have a smaller, more low-key affair, having it in Brooklyn was an absolute no brainer! We wanted it to be in our old neighborhood in Cobble Hill, where we went on our first dates, moved into our first apartment together and shared so many wonderful memories. I was so worried that everything in this super-cute neighborhood would be well outside our price range, but, boy, was I wrong! Frankies 457 seemed like the ideal location with the stable and garden as the perfect backdrop for our garden-inspired party. When we found out how reasonable they were on price, we booked it!

From our natural and fun flowers to our cat-centric topper, and all our DIY projects in between, I think we hosted a party that we were both pretty proud of — and that we think everyone loved. I’m also so glad we have our amazing pictures from the best photographer for our keepsakes. :)

Lead Wedding Photographer: Lindsay Madden Photography / Second Shooter: Danielle Rivera / Ceremony: Clover’s Fine Art Gallery in Brooklyn, New York / Reception: Frankies 457 in Brooklyn, New York / Floral Design: The Little Glass Slipper / Wedding Cake: The Chocolate Swirl / Wedding Invitations: MagnetStreet Weddings / Entertainment: Ten Strings Music Studio / Bride & Groom Preparation Location: The Nu Hotel / Wedding Dress: Jenny Yoo / Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade / Hair + Makeup: Appease / Bridesmaid’s Dress: David’s Bridal

Taking a theme and using it to craft a beautiful wedding infused with personality is just what this Bride had in mind. And the fruition of all her thoughtfully crafted details are gorgeous. It’s a wedding built around botanical prints and nature with feathered florals by Rebecca Shepherd Floral Design and a background like the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens which couldn’t be more perfect. Alexandra Meseke Photography captured all the pretty details, one lovely terrarium at a time and you can see it all right here.

From the Bride… When Scott and I got engaged, we immediately fell in love with the idea of a naturalist-themed wedding with a vintage feel. We wanted to summon a sense of nostalgia for a time when observation of the natural world was as much scientific as it was artistic. Our primary sources of inspiration were prints of birds by the ornithologist John James Audubon and paintings by Maxfield Parrish. We began to think that a botanical garden might be the perfect thematic intersection for the union of an artist and a medical student. I had always wanted to have an outdoor wedding, and we quickly fell in love with the Palm House in the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens. The Osborne Garden at sunset was the perfect stage for our ceremony with its grand pillars, fountain and Grecian influences. In addition to being the picture perfect venue for our wedding, the Palm House was an organizational godsend. They organized so much for us — from linens to lighting. The catering they provide is delicious, and the staff couldn’t be easier to work with.

We designed the stationery ourselves, with the exception of the table cards, which were our favorite Audubon prints. Our floral designer, Rebecca Shepherd, understood our vision immediately! She had such great ideas for the tablescapes and bouquets. The bell jar terrariums were perfect for our theme, and her collection of birds’ nests, brass goblets and candle holders were just what we needed to get that vintage feeling. I was so happy with the bouquets — I have them preserved and on display in my living room still. I bought my dress in Oxford, England. It was a one-of-a-kind Stephanie Allin that I found in Ellie Sanderson’s bridal boutique. The minute I put on my dress, I knew it was the one. The neckline had a classic feel, and the lace in the back, with the subtle touch of gold glass beading, gave the dress an element of glamour. It was the perfect union of all the elements I ever wanted in a wedding gown. Scott and I are music enthusiasts, so our playlist was just as important to us as the aesthetics. Our DJ, Jay McElfresh of White Label DJs, was great. He met with us several times in person and over Skype to get an idea of our music taste as well as what we thought our guests would most like to boogie down to.  He made our wedding into an awesome dance party that had everyone out of their seats, from my 5-year-old nephew to 85 year-old grandmother.

Finally, it was all captured to perfection by our awesome photographers Alexandra Meseke and her husband Mike. Alexandra and Mike were such a joy to work with, from our engagement shoot to cutting the cake. Our pictures were like something out of a magazine. I could hardly believe my eyes, and yet they convey the sentiments of the day exactly as I remember it. We felt our wedding was magical, and somehow Alexandra and Mike were able to capture it. Our guests got a real kick out of the photo booth they set up for us. It was the best day of my life, surrounded by all our loved ones having a great time. The night flew by like a blur, and I’m eternally grateful for the phenomenal photos I have to remember it by.

Wedding Photography: Alexandra Meseke Photography / Wedding Venue + Catering: Palm House at the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens in Brooklyn, New York / Floral Design: Rebecca Shepherd Floral Design / Music: Jay McElfresh of White Label DJs / Wedding Dress: Stephanie Allin via Ellie Sanderson / Bride’s Shoes + Hair Piece: Ellie Sanderson / Makeup: Anni Bruno with NYC Faces / Junior Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Dessy

When an engagement session like this comes along, I can’t help but smile.  The kind of smile that takes over your entire face – a seriously beaming, ear to ear kind of smile.  Because when a couple is this adorable and an e-session is this stunning, it just makes me HAPPY.  It’s inevitable.  Add in a gallery of pretty, pretty images by MLKL Photography and some seriously cute shots of the entire family and I’m calling this the world’s best Wednesday.  See so much more right here.

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From MLKL Photography… Six weeks ago I got a text from my cousin. No words. Just a picture. Of a gorgeous engagement ring! Even though 1,000 miles separated us at that very moment, with both of us traveling for Labor Day weekend, we instantly began a string of texts, calls, and emails oodling over all the excitement of planning a wedding: the dress, the venue, the date, the colors… Of course it was only a matter of time before we landed on the inevitable topic of photography!

With an original desire for an autumn wedding (but the final date being selected as June 1… I mean really, the girl bought her dress within five days of getting engaged! I don’t think she can wait a whole 14 months for the wedding day!), they opted for an early autumn feel for their engagement photos.

Beginning at Prospect Park’s Audubon Center we wound our way over to the super chic waterfront community of DUMBO with Brooklyn Bridge Park and the recently renovated 1920’s Jane’s Carousel as our stage, capturing their home, the best of Brooklyn! And this love joins not two, but four, so what’s better than including the whole clan? But that’s not all! Kids aren’t the only element of their world that made a cameo in their session. With a nod to the ever-delicious bubble tea (their favourite afternoon treat), a charming bouquet of flowers from their local markets, and a spotlight on the sparkly — an Etsy engagement ring! — their session captures the daily details of this couple through and through.

Photography: MLKL Photography / Locations: Brooklyn Bridge Park, Prospect Park Audubon Center + Jane’s Carousel, All in Brooklyn, New York / Engagement Ring: Beautiful Petra

Oh how we love a good dose of inspiration. We live for it really, so this shoot inspired by all things fabulous and vintage in Hollywood from MLKL Photography is right up our alley. And when that dose of pretty comes by way of talents like Olam Weddings, Dauphine Press and Kerry Quade – we get a little giddy. Ok, a lot giddy. This shoot is filled with so much style we can barely believe our gallery can contain it all – oh but it does, and trust us when we say it’s a must see. See it all here!

From Melissa Lahring of MLKL Photography… I’ve just finished up some images from an incredibly fun late-summer styled bridal shoot that I collaborated on with canopy designer Michelle Friedman of Olam Weddings. She played a major role in coordinating this labor of love. This shoot’s vintage Holly wood theme is a blend of a modern and nostalgic Hollywood. Major inspiration for this shoot includes the songs and looks of Lana Del Rey, the colors of a late summer California sunset behind the palm trees (one of the “couple’s” favourite travel destinations), and vintage heirloom jewels recreated in new ways. This is a fun-loving New York City bride through and through. She grew up on the upper east side and has since made her home in the west village. Family and heritage is a big part of her life, but she also values her independence and individuality. With a career in fashion, she plans a wedding that reflects her personal style — a party that is modern, chic, and one of a kind that will wow her inner circle. Combining bright colours, a playful spirit, and stunning vintage pieces, she boldly creates a day that matches her fun personality while also offering up a gentle nod to her heritage. Everything was photographed in Brooklyn’s Picnic House in Prospect Park this summer.

From Michelle Friedman of Olam Weddings… The large bloom design of the ceremony canopy is a nod to the gorgeous images of Lana Del Rey in her flower crowns. The cream and gold colors sparkle like a dreamy cloud above the couple. The lightness of the canopy has an open air California feeling and romantically frames the couple. The soft and airy canopy above the table is made from long pieces of french lace and raw silk ribbons. The canopy above the couple’s table creates an intimate and romantic space within the ceremony, as well as a special focal point.

From Kerry Quade… My inspiration for the vintage Hollywood glamour shoot was “what is old is new again.” The deep eggplant color of the carnations gives an “old” bloom a modern twist. In the table setting, the cut-glass goblets used as vases are filled with classic juliette garden roses in an apricot tone. These, paired with plum-colored Thai basil, artichokes, jasmine and silver dusty miller, give an update to a classic setting. Mercury glass votives add to the vintage vibe.

From Dauphine Press… Stylistically, this suite’s chic typography was inspired by high fashion with a nod to the mid-century. The gold foil impressed into the soft cotton paper is what gives this suite the rich and luxurious feeling associated with vintage Hollywood. The delicate, foil-stamped border and text is reminiscent of gold jewelry and truly catches the light like a diamond ring. The palette is still bright and beautiful — the whimsical, Wisteria-colored, hand-painted edges and a custom envelope liner give it a little vintage ’60s, beach-side flair while remaining sophisticated.

Photography: Melissa Lahring of MLKL Photography / Photo Shoot Venue: Picnic House at Prospect Park in Brooklyn, New York / Coordination + Canopy Design: Michelle Friedman of Olam Weddings / Floral Design: Kerry Quade / Catering: Naturally Delicious / Stationery: Dauphine Press / Styling: Angelina Vivace /  Hair: Kristina Bauzo /  Makeup: Brandalyn Fulton with Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics / Model Bride: Claudia Kiss / Model Groom: Zachary Kapple

Look #1: Getting Ready
Earrings: Lulu Frost / Bra: Sophie B. / Shorts: Rae/Francis / Ring: Rebekah Lea

Look #2: Portraits
Wedding Dress: Houghton NY / Bride’s Earrings: Lulu Frost / Bride’s Ring: Rebekah Lea / Bracelet in Bride’s Hair: Lulu Frost / Bride’s Shoes: Enzo Angiolini / Groom’s Shirt + Pants: H&M / Groom’s Socks: Stylist’s Own / Groom’s Shoes: Bostonian Classics / Groom’s Bow Tie: Wu York

Look #3: Ceremony + Dessert Table
Wedding Dress: Ivy & Aster “Hello Gorgeous” via Lovely Bride / Bride’s Head Piece: Julia Clancey / Bride’s Ring: Rebekah Lea / Bride’s Bracelet + Necklace: Lulu Frost / Bride’s Shoes: Enzo Angiolini / Groom’s Shirt + Pants: H&M / Groom’s Socks: Stylist’s Own / Groom’s Shoes: Bostonian Classics / Groom’s Bow Tie: Wu York /

Look #4: Reception
Wedding Dress: Abigail Stewart / Bride’s Shoes: Enzo Angiolini / Bride’s Crown: Young & ng / Bride’s Earrings, Bracelet + Necklace: Lulu Frost / Groom’s Shirt + Pants: H&M / Groom’s Socks: Stylist’s Own / Groom’s Shoes: Bostonian Classics / Groom’s Bow Tie: Wu York

Look#5: Fashion
Bride’s Dot Dress: Houghton NY / Bride’s Earrings + Bracelet: Lulu Frost / Bride’s Ring: Rebekah Lea / Bride’s Eye Piece: Custom by Rebekah Lea / Groom’s Shirt + Pants: H&M / Groom’s Socks: Stylist’s Own / Groom’s Shoes: Bostonian Classics / Groom’s Bow Tie: Wu York

I have an affinity for rooftop weddings. It’s the blue skies, the top of the world views, the “you may now kiss the Bride” mingled with cityscapes that can take your breath way; all good. And all made even better when documented by Judy Pak. She has proven time and again her prowess with capturing the beauty of a New York affair. This beauty is no exception. See it all right here.

From the Bride… I wanted a cool modern wedding in New York away from the ballrooms and hotels that you usually see. I tell my now-husband, Bobby, that our wedding included my other love, New York, in every way. He’s a Philly transplant, but it was really our New York strolls that brought us together and helped us fall in love. But I also didn’t want cool/ modern to mean that the wedding photos couldn’t be absolutely romantic and dreamy. I wanted it to be simple and clean but with lots of whimsy.

In having our dream wedding, Bobby and I really focused on the venue, styling, flowers and DIY chevron paper goods. The wedding was held at Stage 6 Steiner Studios on a beautiful cool (shocking) summer day on the roof facing the city with the Brooklyn Bridge and Empire State Building behind us at the “altar.” And no summer in New York is complete without the South Street Seaport, so we took our photos there. For styling, I knew I wanted an absolutely lush, romantic dress, and for the bridesmaids and groomsmen, we loved the cool breeziness of greens and blues for their dresses and bow ties. Bobby also handmade his Masters green cufflinks from golf ball markers and provided them to the groomsmen as part of their attire gifts (who knew he was so crafty!). For flowers, we wanted to keep it modern with clean romantic shades of white and ivory with hints of greenery. The lush, tall centerpieces were gorgeous against the city backdrop. And I loved the effect of big mounds of baby’s breath down the aisle and on the pillars. The programs, menus, escort cards and photo booth sign were designed by me after seeing some chevron inspiration. After many hours on Photoshop and many more hours with the paper cutter, we were beyond happy with everything.

Wedding Photography: Judy Pak Photography / Wedding Venue + Catering – Stage 6 at Steiner Studios in Brooklyn Navy Yard, New York / Floral Design: Barbara’s Flowers / Officiant: Mark Giller of One Heart Ceremonies / Wedding Cinematography: Orange Films / Wedding Invitations: Lion in the Sun / Programs, Menus, Escort Cards + Signs: DIY by the Bride / Ceremony Music Trio: Jennifer Girone / DJ: Dan Chaves of Scratch Weddings / Photo Booth: Garden State Photo Booth / Cake Toppers: Lesley Wellington / Wedding Suites: Andaz Wall Street / Wedding Dress: Oscar de la Renta / Bride’s Wedding Second Dress: BCBG / Bride’s Shoes: Valentino / Hair + Makeup: VickyC5 / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Ivy & Aster / Groom’s Tuxedo: Custom / Groom’s Shoes: Cole Haan / Groomsmen’s Bow Ties: Southern Proper / Groomsmen’s Cufflinks: DIY by the Groom / Mothers’ Traditional Dresses: Nabi Hanbok

Temperatures outside may be on the chilly side, but this engagement session by León Images has left me with nothing but warm fuzzy feelings for fall. An afternoon stroll for two is exactly what a couple would do on an ordinary Sunday. Except this adorable couple is anything but ordinary, with their stylish outfits and charming smiles! Curl up with a cup of jo and the full gallery here.

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From León Images… Zeynep and Mike met and started dating while they were both attending grad school in Sweden. Mike eventually got a job in New York, and Zeynep moved back to her home in Istanbul. Despite their vast geographical distance, they stayed together. Zeynep eventually joined Mike in New York, and now they are happily engaged. The two made their home in Brooklyn, so it seemed like a natural fit to have the engagement shoot in DUMBO. We knew that the location had to have somewhat of a city feel for this cosmopolitan couple. The cobblestone streets, iconic bridges, waterfront, charming shops and restaurants were all elements that inspired the couple. I also love DUMBO because the neighborhood is very urban but lacks crowded sidewalks and busy streets, allowing couples to relax, be comfortable and really get into a day of shooting. The resulting photos perfectly captured Mike and Zeynep’s cross-continental love story.

Wedding Photography: Ricardo Gotla for León Images / Location: DUMBO in Brooklyn, New York

After getting engaged in the city of lights, this adorable Brooklyn couple decided to infuse a little touch of Paris into their big day. And so with tons of help from friends and family they created the most beautiful and personal DIY wedding ever with a Paris meets Brooklyn vibe. Agaton Strom Photography captured all the pretty, little details and there’s so much more to see right here in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… Michael and I met, fell in love, and currently live in Brooklyn. After we got engaged, we talked a lot about where we would like to get married. Ultimately we decided that the most meaningful location would be the borough where our love was established and developed. After an extensive search, I finally walked into MyMoon Restaurant in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and immediately knew it was the place. Aside from the fact that it is a naturally beautiful, calming, and interesting space — which meant we didn’t have to do much to it and just add our own personal touches — it also happens to be just blocks away from the tree under which Michael and I shared our first kiss. We knew we wanted Brooklyn to be a big theme in our wedding, and the other huge element we wanted to incorporate was Paris, the city where we got engaged. Getting engaged in Paris in front of the Eiffel Tower is such a cliche right? But when he proposed, in front of those blinking lights and the beautiful night sky, it was one of the most magical moments of our lives. And so, our theme became Brooklyn Meets Paris. My mom drew a picture for us of the Brooklyn Bridge leading to the Paris skyline, and this pretty much encapsulated our day.

We decided not to hire a florist, as I wasn’t really interested in big flower centerpieces, so we created our own centerpieces. The evening we got engaged, we drank an E. Guigal Cotes du Rhone wine, and we were lucky enough to find a liquor store in Greenpoint that sells the same wine! So we bought several bottles, and over several months we drank it all and used the bottles as our centerpieces. I came across some cool battery-operated pussy willow branch lights that reminded me of the lights of the Eiffel Tower, so we put these in the wine bottles with some fabric and voila! I dyed an old tapestry dark purple and cut it into table runners for the outside tables. Instead of escort cards, we found a great old door with window panes at a thrift store called Junk in Williamsburg. Michael spent days sanding it to perfection, and I painted a note on the top and bottom and added the guest names to each window pane. I liked the idea of having small flower arrangements scattered throughout the space for color, so the day before the wedding, Michael’s stepfather, Patric, helped me pick out a bunch of beautiful flowers at the wholesale flower market in Manhattan, and he created about 40 mini arrangements that afternoon. I created my and my bridesmaids bouquets from these same flowers, and Michael’s mom, Jane, made the boutonnieres and corsages. I couldn’t find a dress I liked and was overwhelmed with the dress-finding process, so I found a designer, Kathryn Conover, who created my dream wedding dress based on a picture of a non-wedding dress I had cut out of a magazine. Michael was dead set on having his ring made out of meteorite (a rock from outer space!), so he found an online jeweler specializing in meteorite and designed it himself. My ring was custom made to match my beautiful vintage engagement ring that belonged to Michael’s great-great aunt. Michael works for Converse, so of course he and his groomsmen rocked Converse high tops, and he had each pair embellished with a unique, custom design. Our designer friend Anna made my beautiful headpiece and veil, and I made the belt that I wore during the reception. I also designed and made our programs and menus. Our ceremony was put together piece by piece, including our own vows and a soil ceremony in which our families brought dirt from our respective home states that we incorporated with some Brooklyn dirt and a cherry blossom seed to represent our lives before and the combining of our lives together. Our processional music was from “Amelie,” a nod to Paris and also one of our favorite movies as a couple. And Michael’s best friend Chris was our officiant.

This wedding could not have happened without the love, support and help of our family and friends. My mom saved my life in the days before by helping me make so many of the decorations (and doing a better job, actually!), and our wonderful friends were there to step in and help throughout the process. My biggest advice to other DIY couples is to be extremely organized from the very beginning and plan your time wisely. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Even if you think you can do it all yourself, you just can’t, and you shouldn’t. You want to enjoy the big day and breathe it all in, because that’s what it’s all about. Even though it was stressful at times, I was converted from an anti-bride dreading the wedding planning process to a blushing bride falling in love with all the little details. Our wedding was a magical day, and as I sat there with my soul mate looking out at all of the people we love in one room together, it really felt like us.

Wedding Photography: Agaton Strom Photography / Wedding Venue + Catering: MyMoon Restaurant in Brooklyn, New York / Wedding Cake + Cupcakes by Baked NYC / Doughnuts: Doughnut Plant / Other Desserts: MyMoon Restaurant / Wedding Stationery: Minted, Paper Presentation + MOO / Photo Booth: Luckystar Photobooth / Wedding Dress: Custom by Kathryn Conover Couture / Bride’s Shoes: Seychelles / Bride’s Head Piece + Veil: Handmade by Anna Bechtol, A Friend of the Bride / Bride’s Belt: Handmade by the Bride / Bride’s Necklace + Bracelets: Family Heirlooms / Bride’s Earrings: A SoHo Street Vendor / Bride’s Ring: Custom by DVVS Jewelry / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Dessy / Men’s Suits: Men’s Wearhouse / Men’s Shoes: Converse / Groom’s Ring: Custom by Boone Rings

I love Brooklyn. Like, LOVE. It’s the quirky vibe, the charming neighborhoods and the crazy-good style everywhere you look that makes my heart beat a little faster for the trendy burrough. And this Green Building wedding sent to us by the uber-talented Colette Kulig Photography is no exception. It’s one-half industrial chic, one-half DIY-ers dream and entirely gorgeous. Click here to see the rest!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… When Ian and I met, almost five years ago, we immediately clicked. Not only because we were both trying to pursue music as our careers, but also because we shared a similar life aesthetic. When we moved to Brooklyn three years ago, it became clear that the aesthetic we’d always loved was everywhere, and we think that’s why it immediately felt like home. One night, two summers ago, after walking home from Red Hook (which we crazily do even though it’s more or less an hour walk to out apartment), we happened to walk by The Green Building with its front gate wide open, fully lit and full of people. We hadn’t even gotten engaged yet, but it was at that moment that I think we both realized what kind of wedding we would want to have.

Once we got engaged, we weren’t sure about a date for the wedding (my husband’s a touring musician with a very full travel schedule), but we knew it was going to be in Brooklyn and at the Green Building. Overall, the wedding and preparations were all very much DIY, with a rustic yet sophisticated feel that we hoped would still feel pretty simple. We made our own invitations by ordering custom stamps from a lady in Illinois, and I stamped each invitation as Ian strung string and glued the two parts of the invite together. We dyed fabric and cut it up to create a backdrop for our photo booth, we used old windows to write up our menu and other information, and we custom-ordered a tree trunk cake stand for our lovely Baked cake and cupcakes. We kept the Italian tradition of giving what we call “bomboniera” in Italy (essentially a favor) and filled each of the 100 muslin bags we’d ordered with five almonds each. We had another custom stamp created that explained the reason for the five almonds and stamped 100 kraft cards to attach to the bags. To assign tables to guests, we hand-stamped numbers and wrote our guests’ names on smaller kraft cards, which had string around them that could be tied to the prosecco glass each guest was given upon arrival. Most of the small details of the wedding were either made by both my husband and me or purchased from flea markets or Etsy.

At the same time, we wanted beautiful flowers to really represent what early spring is like, and our amazing friend and florist, Brittany, at Brrch Flowers was able to convey exactly what we wanted. The food, which was catered by Roberta’s in Brooklyn, was absolutely spectacular, and people to this day talk about how good it was. Not to mention The Green Building itself, which is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. The staff and the space are so marvelous that they alone made the day special. Plus they had some great props that we got to use as well as being extremely helpful (especially in installing the hanging lights amongst all the planning!). A few of the things that we loved the most about the day: the “hiding game” my husband and I played as we were both at The Green Building but didn’t want to see each other until the ceremony; our first dance to Prince’s “Let’s Go Grazy”; seeing our very different families (his American, mine 100% Italian) come together in one room and their speeches; and the shameless dancing that carried on into the night. We are still so incredibly happy and marveled by how beautiful of a day our wedding was. Our photographer and good friend, Colette of Colette Kulig Photography, did an amazing job capturing the beauty of the day, and every time we look through our photos from her, or from the ten disposable cameras we let guests take photos with (such fun results), we are reminded by how much love and happiness there was in the room that day!

Wedding Photography: Colette of Colette Kulig Photography / Wedding Venue: The Green Building in Brooklyn, New York / Venue Contacts: Quinn + Brooke / Floral Design: Brittany of Brrch / Catering: Cherie of Roberta’s / Wedding Cake + Cupcakes: Jordan of Baked / Rentals: Broadway Party Rentals / Photo Booth Props: Maro Designs / Wedding Dress: Sarah Seven via Lovely Bridal Shop NYC / Bride’s Shoes: Miu Miu / Bride’s Hair Accessory: Twigs & Honey / Hair: Lacey of Mousey Brown Salon /Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J.Crew / Groom’s Suit + Shirt: Burberry / Groom’s Tie: Pierrepont Hicks

It’s no secret that the Green Building in Brooklyn is one of our favorite venues ever, so when we saw this pretty little gem sent into us by Sarah Hoppes Photography, we jumped for joy! It’s one part vintage, two parts elegant, and all sorts of DIY pretty! Yup everything from the guest book to the yummy granola favors were all made with love by the bride and groom and their families. Talk about love. Click here for more.

And don’t miss this adorable film by Sarah Hoppes Photography, edited by Christopher Rizzo.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride & Groom… Four years ago, we met on a subway heading to Brooklyn and have lived in Brooklyn for the last three years, so getting married here only seemed natural. We chose the Green Building because of its charm and warm lighting, and we chose our band, Roosevelt Dime, because we knew that they would be able to get everyone out of their seats (as a side note, Roosevelt Dime plays on subway platforms throughout New York and we first heard them playing at a wine bar in Williamsburg). The wedding was largely designed and organized by us. Some of our favorite little touches were the chalkboard seating chart drawn by the bride’s sister, the homemade granola baked by the groom’s mother that was offered as treats as the guests left, and the guest book made by us that asked our guests to leave us a message or wish and seal it in an envelope for us to open in either one month or one year (the guests could circle one of the two options). We had a wonderful time at our wedding and really appreciate all of the hard work that our friends and vendors put into it to help make it so great, so we are happy to have this opportunity to share it with the world.

Wedding Photography: Sarah Hoppes Photography / Wedding Venue: The Green Building in Brooklyn, New York / Wedding Invitations: Joyce Chan / Band: Roosevelt Dime / Wedding Dress: Saja / Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Groom’s Suit: Tommy Hilfiger / Groom’s Shoes: Florsheim / Rings: Itay Malkin (The Groom’s Cousin)

This adorable couple, along with their unbelievably cute fur babies, Goose and Joey, hit up Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn for their super casual and utterly intimate e-session. They brought along brklyn view photography who captured these cuties oh-so-perfectly in what can only be described as a perfect summer evening. See even more right here!

Click here for the FULL e-session!

From brklyn view photography… I knew Pam and Doug were awesome from the very first moment I met them at Local 61 in Brooklyn. Pam found me through my blog and was interested in having me photograph their wedding at Frankies 457 in December. We hit it off right away and hung out for over two hours talking about life, love and everything in between. Since our first meeting, Pam and Doug have not only become my clients, they have also become my friends. For their engagement session, Pam and Doug wanted it to feel natural and reflect who they are as a couple. So we decided that I’d join them one summer evening while they took their adorable dogs, Goose and Joey, for a walk in Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn. Seriously, how cute is their family? I cannot wait for Pam and Doug’s wedding in December!

Photography: brklyn view photography / Location: Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn, New York / Bride’s Dress: J.Crew

Each and every time we see Robert & Kathleen Photographers in our in-boxes, we know we’re in for some amazing eye candy. They have the most perfect way of capturing a wedding and all its gorgeous details, from the bride’s jewelry to the last dance, they don’t miss a beat. And we’re so glad they don’t because that means we get fabulous weddings full of details like this pretty waterfront Brooklyn fete. It’s traditional with a twist and the gallery is overflowing with pretty. Click here for even more!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Robert & Kathleen Photographers… Anne and Adam were set up by mutual friends, and during that first date, they discovered even if they hadn’t been set up, they probably would have crossed paths anyway. Not only did they have a remarkable number of other things in common, but before they both moved to NYC they had each lived in San Francisco in the very same building — just a few years apart. When they became a couple, they found that they were excellent planners. This came especially in handy when they were planning their wedding. They knew they wanted to have a city venue that would have a great view and atmosphere for their guests.  After searching, the found the perfect spot: The Liberty Warehouse in Red Hook Brooklyn.  They provided unique transportation for their guests, providing water taxis from Manhattan over to Brooklyn and even had yellow carnations awaiting the male guests — one more thoughtful touch to make their guests feel at home. For her “something old,” Anne wore the same pair of shoes she had worn on her first date with Adam.

Wedding Photography: Robert & Kathleen Photographers / Wedding Venue: Liberty Warehouse in Red Hook, Brooklyn, New York / Floral Design: Elan Flowers / Wedding Day Coordination: La Vie en Rose Events / Band: The Dexter Lake Club Band / Transportation: New York Water Taxi / Wedding Dress: Alvina Valenta via Kleinfeld Bridal / Bride’s Shoes: Nine West / Hair: Laureen of Styles on B / Makeup: Jenna Hanley / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Aria

I love Jen Huang. Like, love, love, love. Like I should get “I love Jen Huang” t-shirts printed kind of love. Because I’ve never not teared up at one of the weddings she photographs, any one of them of which I could hang on the walls of my home. Despite not knowing the bride or groom. Jen’s photographs simply speak to me. They are soft, and etheral. Soulful and rich. Simply put, they are beauty. And this NYC celebration that she sent our way, is the epitome of Jen’s loveliness. Click here to see even more.

From Jen Huang Photography… When I first asked Kara how she would describe her wedding style, she said, “understated elegance with deep southern Italian cultural undertones.” I thought she described her beautiful wedding perfectly. I loved Kara’s unique Pronovias cover-up with the gorgeous off the shoulder neckline. It was a sunny day with amazing light on the edge of the East River at Giando on the Water. The views from Giando were unbelievable, and I couldn’t stop shooting as the sun set over the southern tip of Manhattan. What a perfect city venue that celebrates the New York skyline by offering guests an unobscured view from their private pier.

Wedding Photography: Jen Huang Photography / Wedding Venue + Catering: Giando on the Water in Brooklyn, New York / Floral Design: Fleurs / Wedding Cake: Chambers Walk / Wedding Invitations: Minted / Band: The Elements via Elan Artists / Wedding Dress: Pronovias / Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Makeup: Kerry Makeup / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J.Crew / Hair: Ricky Horne of Avalon Salon & Spa / Groom’s Suit: Men’s Wearhouse

It’s no secret that we’re total suckers for backyard weddings around these parts, but when said backyard is a sweet, urban oasis, we go into swooning overdrive! This super casual, intimate affair reminds us that your big day doesn’t have to be big at all. It can be a simple ceremony with just a handful of your closest friends. Oh, and great food and al fresco dining doesn’t hurt! Léon Images captured this sweet day to perfection. See it all right here.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Léon Images… Michelle and Darren, both west coast transplants living in Brooklyn, wanted a wedding that reflected their laid-back, casual lifestyle. Darren’s brother, Daniel Korb, hosted the intimate ceremony and reception in the backyard of his charming brownstone in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The single table for eight guests was draped with a blue and white seersucker tablecloth and burlap place mats. Sprigs of rosemary and lavender wrapped the linens. Flowers were purchased from the farmer’s market in pretty greens and indigos, arranged by the groom’s brother and placed in vintage mason jars.

After a small ceremony, the guests were treated to a special 12-course tasting menu catered by one of their favorite New York City chefs, Jehangir Mehta. The incredible dinner was served al fresco under a sky illuminated by stars and festoon lights. Dessert included cupcakes from Billy’s Bakery and artisanal root beer floats with homemade ice cream hand-made by the groom. No event would be complete without the presence of Michelle and Darren’s beloved French bulldog, Higgins, who wore a Tommy Hilfiger bow tie especially for the occasion. Michelle added, “Our wedding was everything I could have hoped for – unique and unforgettable. Because of the small guest list, we were really able to enjoy everyone’s company and share a lovely meal.” We couldn’t agree more.

Wedding Photography: Ricardo Gotla of Léon Images / Wedding Venue: The Home of the Groom’s Brother, Daniel Korb, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York / Floral Design: DIY by the Groom’s Brother / Bride’s Bouquet: kat flower / Catering: Mehtaphor / Cupcakes: Billy’s Bakery / Music: Pandora / Wedding Dress: Trina Turk / Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade / Bride’s Necklace: A Family Heirloom / Makeup: DIY by the Bride / Groom’s Suit: Kenneth Cole / Groom’s Shoes: Bass / Groom’s Bow Tie: Bloomingdale’s / Dog’s Bow Tie: Tommy Hilfiger

Get ready to feast your eyes on possibly the cutest e-session EVER by the super-talented Kateryn Silva Photography. This couple works at a flying trapeze school in NYC as a side gig to their buttoned-up day jobs and their too-cute-for-words proposal happened right on the trapeze bar! They choose Coney Island as the location for their love shoot and the result is one crazy-fun and crazy-gorgeous image after the next! Fly on over to the full gallery for so much more.

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From the Bride-to-Be… While we both work pretty straight-laced jobs in advertising and finance, on the side, Henry and I work at a flying trapeze school here in NYC where Henry is a catcher, snagging students off the trapeze bar, and I work on the platform coaxing the brave and terrified alike into the air. Henry proposed at the school by catching me from the trapeze, and asking me to marry him mid-air. (He’s a softie!)

From Kateryn Silva Photography… How cute is that? That pretty much sums up this amazing couple. They wanted to do a circus-themed shoot to honor their love of trapeze, as well as Henry’s proposal. They put together their own outfits and got in character. Photographing them was so much fun — their personalities really came through, and they totally fit the part of a beautiful circus couple. We really wanted to squeeze out the best of the old school part of Coney Island while leaving out the crazy crowds, the lines and the sometimes overdone carnival ride shots. So we made it mostly about the couple, their interaction, and just used the color and location as a backdrop for the setting to keep it fresh.

Photography: Kateryn Silva Photography / Location: Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York