It was their senior year. As they were individually making plans for after graduation, lining up jobs and considering school and where they would move to, Dave asked Cally on a date. It was a small but life changing move. They began to build a relationship and found how much they complimented each other… and needed each other. In perhaps one of the most romantic moments of both of their lives, Cally went on a business trip to Paris and Dave followed. He even traveled on the same plane unbeknownst to her and surprised her at the hotel when she checked in. Later that weekend at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, he proposed.

Cally stepped in to the foyer at the Fox Chapel Golf Club and her heart skipped a beat. Her wedding day had finally arrived, confirmed by the fact that the club was decorated as beautifully as she imagined. Her bridesmaids drew in as everyone agreed it would be the most elegant wedding they had seen. Cally grew up dreaming of having her wedding at the club, and although she and Dave were settled in the D.C. area they made the decision to travel to her hometown of Pittsburgh for the wedding.

The night before family and close friends had gathered to celebrate and affirm the relationship she and Dave built. They laughed, told stories, and sang songs (as family tradition) to the soon to be newlyweds. That night started a weekend that marked one of the most memorable occasions in both of their lives, and a wedding that looked like this…

The diamond in Cally’s engagement ring was worn by her great grandmother and placed in a new setting, such a gorgeous family stone. She had two dresses for her wedding day, one Oscar de la Renta and the other Badgley Mischka. The first was a silk taffeta ballgown and the second a sequined dress for their exit. To accompany the dresses were a veil borrowed from Cally’s matron of honor’s mother (Blythe! remember her wedding that I shot?) and a fur coat owned by Cally’s grandmother. She brought two pairs of shoes to choose from on the day of, and decided to go with the jeweled Badgley Mischka pair in a light blush tone. It was a gorgeous ensemble.

At the salon, it was hard to resist the charm of their french bulldog. So hilarious and adorable! All of the bridesmaids were there getting their hair done and putting on makeup, and it was the best time to get some candid shots as they prepared. While some people are unsure of how many “getting ready photos” they want… in this case I can tell you it should not have been missed. It is a more relaxed time of preparation than the actual dressing right before things get started.

I love this image of bridesmaids watching Cally prepare for her wedding and put on the finishing touches. Phoebe – I hope you don’t mind but you were so cute trying to blot your eyes and figure out how to keep your makeup nice… you mastered it though!

With the preparations complete Cally was ready for the ceremony and looking stunning. I really mean it. We took just a few minutes to capture these portraits and I highly recommend adding time to your schedule and being in a great location so that you can do so as well.

Meanwhile Dave was looking dapper and having fun with they guys as they made their final preparations. Everyone met at the church for a dramatic walk down the aisle where they saw each other for the first time.

It was the snowy winter day they had dreamed of, and Fox Chapel Golf Club was lit up with sparkling lights to welcome everyone in.

The club has several rooms which flow in to each other, anchored around a large atrium with trees and a glass ceiling for tons of natural light. Flowers centered each table arrangement and candles each stair step so that greenery and soft light was present throughout.

After a welcoming round of cocktails and hor ‘dourves the introductions were made and the dancing began. There was not shortage of moves on the dance floor and a great time was had by all. At the end of the night, with sparklers lit and cheers of joy Cally and Dave made their getaway.

Cally + Dave, thank you so much for inviting me to document your day, and thank you to everyone else who allowed me in to their lives in the process. I can’t end this post without saying how fun it has been to be welcomed in to this group of friends… I think three weddings now makes it feel like friends right? Two years ago I photographed both Christie + Kyle’s and Steve and Blythe’s, and it was so fun to see everyone again. I hope it won’t be the last time!

Wedding Dress Oscar de la Renta  Getaway Dress Badgley Mischka  Veil & Jewelry borrowed Shoes Badgley Mischka  Bridesmaid’s Dresses After Six  Hair & Makeup MCN Salon  Groom + Groomsmen  Joseph A Banks  Flowers Allison McGeary Florist  Cake + Cupcakes Vanilla Pastry Studio  Ceremony Fox Chapel Episcopal Church  Reception Fox Chapel Golf Club

A winter wedding, outside. It was a central decision to Meghan + Ian’s wedding planning. Now living in Virginia, they both had years of memories in snowy Vermont and it stood out as the place they would travel to and celebrate. After deconstructing the wedding day they rebuilt it to be something of their own, a intimate weekend with family and friends in a snowy mountain town.

A few years earlier they had crossed paths. Running in the same circles – literally – they missed a few chances to get to know each other until one winter night. Meghan made it clear that it would be a good idea if Ian asked her out, and he took the hint. They planned to meet up on the eve of one of Virginia’s biggest snowstorms two years ago. Not knowing where each other lived, they talked on the phone and toyed with the idea of putting off getting together… until they realized they basically lived around the block. It was too good to be true. Perhaps there were many other times they had passed by on the street.

Both similar and yet so very different, together they found balance and a relationship that worked. Their wedding day was as unique as both of them and it looked like this…

Meghan wanted to add her own touch to her wedding dress and made a velvet sash to tie around the waist. It was crisp and elegant and her whole ensemble was stunning.

Ian and Meghan commissioned rings from Victoria Moore, a jeweler and metalsmith who works with damascus steel, referring to the layers of metal folded and forged together to created the signature pattern you see above. Highlighted with inlays of gold, the rings fit together and are one of a kind.

The vibrant and bold colors contrasted the cold winter day and added such life. Meghan and Ian chose to do a first look which is something I love so much. They had a moment alone to revel in the day and enjoy taking pictures while guests finished getting ready for the wedding.

We ventured throughout Middlebury and braved the cold for scenic images… but it was cold!

I had found the perfect spot to capture mountains without an excess of buildings in the background on the edge of Middlebury’s campus the day before the wedding. I love getting to know a location and often travel to new locations so I do so a day before when possible.

It was time for the ceremony, and if you didn’t believe me this wedding really was outside. In the gazebo on the town green Meghan and Ian gathered surrounded by their 15 guests and exchanged their vows.

Afterward everyone gathered across the green at the Middlebury Community House, a historic home with the intimate feeling Meghan and Ian were looking for. It was decked out for Christmas and allowed everyone in attendance another chance to get together and celebrate before the holidays.

The table was beautifully clothed and accented in fabric designed by Meghan’s cousin. Stockings were sewn and stuffed with goodies hanging off each chair for guests to enjoy. Custom pints bore the logo printed on all materials for the wedding, adding a common thread that tied the day together.

Safe from the winter wind talking, drinking, and laughing commenced. Around a long table everyone sat down to an early Christmas dinner and intimate wedding reception as they shared a family style meal and toasted the relationship before them. Congratulations again M+I and thanks to everyone for inviting us in to document the day!

venue Town Green, Middlebury VT   wedding dress Impression Bridal  veil Etsy : The Red Magnolia   hair Valerie Smith-Hastings   makeup Hannah Zeno   rings Victoria Moore   flowers The Blossom Basket  groom’s attire Highland Outfitters  officiant Zeke Church  paper goods  mygatsby.com  custom pint glasses Etsy : Factory21  reception music Celticladda  catering  Janice Munson

It was a year of adventures, traveling and fun. Of the 26 weddings that I photographed, 8 of them were out of state and I found myself in places as far as Oregon, Boston and Vermont. I enjoyed the travel for each of those weddings as well as the opportunity to stay close to home and work in New York. I grew as I challenged myself with a busy summer and fall schedule and balancing teaching a class. There were times this year that I felt I was doing everything right, and times when I doubted where I was at… and through it all I’ve learned so much. I wouldn’t have made it with out the great support of family and friends, my first intern – Hannah, and those that choose to put their trust in me as their photographer. It was a great year, and each couple that I worked with had their own take on the wedding day and I enjoyed being there for all of them: here’s a look back at each day. I can’t wait to see what 2012 looks like, and wish all of you the best as we jump ship from 2011 and dive in to the new year!

The romance of winter was visible as Meghan and Ian wed on a crisp cold day in Middlebury, Vermont. It was everything you dream of when you start to picture a small winter wedding in a snowy mountain town. With 17 guests in attendance it was an intimate day, shared with an inner circle of family and friends. Being invited to document this occasion was a treat. Matt accompanied me as second shooter and sherpa, carrying bags and prepping lights as I tried to convince him to leave his job and work for me full time. (It hasn’t worked yet) We felt especially honored to be among the small group of guests and provide the images that would be remembered and shared with all those not in attendance. We were welcomed in and I can’t thank everyone enough for their hospitality.

Upon arriving to Middlebury we got acquainted with the locations for the wedding and then went off on a run to scout locations for photos. I always love to get to know a place with a run, and as the sun set the town twinkled with lights and the warm glow of houses which seemed to welcome us in. We soon joined those inside as we headed to the rehearsal dinner and the first official events of the weekend kicked off. The only thing missing was snow. Fortuitously we awoke to a light blanket that had been laid overnight to cover the ground. The temperature had also dropped at least 10 degrees from the day before, but we were prepared for the cold. I’m not sure if Ian could have prepared for wearing a kilt in such weather but he didn’t flinch. After warming up from the outdoor ceremony everyone gathered across the green in the Community House for a reception equivalent to the Christmas dinner you always wish you had with those closest to you. It was a beautiful day, remembered in the warmest light as the memory of a cold day fades with the passing of time.

Each time I head to Vermont I find another reason to return. The small towns nestled between snowy mountains are so inviting and ready for exploration. Just a few miles north of Middlebury we fell in love with Vergennes Laundry, a wood fired bakery and coffee shop that fit our tastes perfectly. More and more I’m drawn to the simple and expertly crafted espresso drinks found only at small establishments like this. Pair that with fresh bread, tarts, and french treats like caneles and it’s almost enough reason to pick up and move or actually start building that wood fired oven we have been talking about. A trip to Vergennes was the perfect treat after a cold day shooting outside. Enough so that I’m ready to plan for next year.

It’s the details that come together on a wedding day to make it different from the rest. These small decisions and personal touches are so evident, especially when they are the sum of hours of work and planning. To follow up Leslie + Mike’s wedding, I have a special how-to post. Leslie carried the natural and handmade feel of their day in to the design of their fabric wedding invitations and agreed to share her process with me – and you!

Thanks again for sharing Leslie and I’d love to hear if you enjoyed this post or are considering making some fabric invites of your own! happy monday

They didn’t expect to fall in love when they walked in to church one Sunday two years ago. Mike had come looking for a church after moving to the area and was drawn to the community passionate about serving others. Leslie had grown up in the church and attended while home over the holidays to find a tall handsome stranger sitting in Sunday school with her.  They couldn’t help but notice each other and on tried to avoid making their interest obvious throughout that first class. Afterwards, a typically shy Leslie approached Mike and introduced herself.  A typically outgoing and confident Mike found himself feeling a little shy.

Opposites attract. While similarities brought them together their differences made them stronger. Her artistic insight and his thoughtful organization allow them to balance each other, strengthen each other, and challenge each other. For Leslie, on time is a fluid term that can include a few minutes late. For Mike on time is 15 minutes early.

I arrived in Boston and spent the morning with Leslie and Mike, getting to know the area. We stopped in the church – where they first met and were getting married, drove to the beach where the first look would take place and finalized our plan for the next day. While it was the first time I had met both of them I felt as though I was back in town for a wedding of good friends. Leslie and Mike are the kind of people you just want to be friends with, and I felt lucky to be among those in attendance for their wedding.

There was an effortlessness with how the day unfolded. Nothing was contrived, but genuinely crafted to be an extension of their life together and expression of their love. In the same way, photographing their day came easily. Leslie and Mike are so obviously in love they were naturals and I can’t say enough how much I loved being able to document them. I hope you enjoy the images just as much!

Leslie handmade fabric invitations to set the tone for their personal day and invite everyone to join them. She tried a few methods before deciding on one that worked best – and she is going to share her process in a post on Monday!

After getting ready it was off to the beach in Nahant for the first look. These photos convince me even more that a first look is a necessary part of a wedding day. It allowed us to take the time to shoot in a gorgeous location before the ceremony and take advantage of the light when it was best – a must when shooting in the winter months.

I love the pops of color against navy dresses and muted landscape of November. That little bit of orange color in the bushes ties to together perfectly.

Flowers Blooms of Hope Dress David’s Bridal Hairpiece Simplybellatlb on etsy Jewelry Bridalbeads and OliniBridalJewelry on etsy Bridesmaid’s Dresses J.Crew Hair & Makeup Siobhan McKenna Venue Nahant Country Club

Oh, look there I am with Matt getting ready to leave the church right after our ceremony. image courtesy of Anne Ruthmann

I borrowed the coat (it might have been more like a cape?) from my aunt, and while I think borrowing is an excellent way to go if you are in the market for something new or looking for a specific style there are soo many options these days. I had some fun searching and pulling out a few coverups below while Hannah, my intern, found even more winter accessories and ideas to incorporate to the whole ensemble. Boots, tights, muffs, you name it – winter is the time to do it. Outfitting a bridal party in similar or matching outerwear also helps bring continuity to any photos shot outside. (How fun does this bridal party look with their fur muffs?) It might be as simple as having everyone bring a black jacket, or gifting them pashmia scarves to cover up with but it will make a difference when you go outside for pictures. The “looks” will tie together, and you won’t have to pretend like you’re not freezing (okay you still might have to do that – but you’ll be less freezing).

1.Lace shrug  2. Ostrich Feather  3. Vivienne Westwood Cape 4.Primrose Bolero 5. Bluebell Jacket  6. Faux Fur Jacket 7. Feather Bolero 8.Betsey Johnson Coat

1–BHLDN Amandine Headband 2–Anthropologie Dusted Tights 3–Theme Waist Coat Jacket 4–Belle by Sigerson Morrison Suede Flats 5–Metallic Telegram Clutch

1–Multi Strap belt by J. Crew 2–J. Crew Scarf 3–Skerry Vinter boots by Tretorn 4–J. Crew Cloche 5–BHLDN Lace Coverlet

1– Hunter Tall Metallic Boots 2– BHLDN Dewed Vines Hairpin 3–J. Crew Feathered Crystal Necklace 4–Bando Dazzle Crystal Headwrap 5– J. Crew Toscana Shearling Earmuffs

1– Vince Hooded Toggle Coat 2–J. Crew Bird’s Eye Wool Tie 3– J. Crew Plaid Wool Scarf 4– Gap Paneled Driver Hat 5–Öbo GTX Leather 6–Deerskin Gloves

It’s December first, the sun is shining and over at MDP we have been designing our hearts out. I get to say “we” for a few more weeks since Hannah is interning until the end of the semester – and I don’t want her to go! She’s stepped up to the album design plate and is still swinging. It has been so helpful since it takes a lot of work to put together a carefully crafted story of a wedding day and is nice to work with someone on the process.

There are many ways to design an album, and templates to help you out, but I choose to do everything in house + custom. (Blame it on my graphic design background/perfectionist tendencies.) Books can be are assembled individually and the pages are made up of professional quality photographic paper as you can see from the finished album in this post. This allows for full bleeds (aka. images to the edge) endless variety in design, and the option for dramatic sweeping images that span both pages. The layouts in this post are two pages, so they would be folded down the middle but open up to lay flat as you see them. Starting with anywhere from 700-1300 images – depending on the amount of coverage from the day – they are narrowed down to anywhere from 75-150 for the album. The selection starts with the couple and then moves to me as I make decisions based on story, layout, color and composition to put together the final design in InDesign. Proofs are exported and sent so that everyone gets to view the finished product before printing and make changes if necessary.

The last big step in the wedding photography process, it is also one of the most rewarding. A well designed album contains small moments, well-thought details and life changing events that tell a story. There is something about holding, touching, viewing, and sharing a wedding album – a thing that can be passed across the room or through generations. It’s so much nicer when you have that in your hands a few months after your wedding instead of a few years.

It was meant to be. There are times in each person’s life when you wonder what the future holds, what your purpose is and where life will take you. The friendships you form in high school are tested when life starts to unfold – and do so unexpectedly with twists and turns that take you in a new direction. No relationship is tested more than a romantic one, and Chris and Collen have weathered the storm.

They still remember that first prom, back in their awkward teenage years, and as Chris recounted in his vows, he never understood why Colleen loved him. She was everything to him, and it wasn’t until a few years later when she was facing life threatening illness that he fully realized his purpose in their relationship. He was there to love her, and when there was the possibility that she might not be there, he stood by her side and loved her more. To be there – in good times and in bad, in times of plenty and need, and in times of sickness and in health – is a promise they made on their wedding day. It was a promise in many ways they had already fulfilled, but on this day they pledged to do so for the rest of their lives.

There are few times when I cry at a wedding, but as Chris and Colleen read their vows written specifically for each other, my eyes welled up and hid behind my camera and I continued to document. Here was a relationship so meaningful, so real, you could not help but recognize what they had and celebrate their love… and celebrate they did. Chris and Colleen know how to throw a party and it was an absolute joy to document their day. Thanks again to everyone for inviting me in and I hope you enjoy this small story of the day.

The Cortland Alumni house is a gorgeous venue and of course a significant location to these Cortland grads. It was decked out in feathers which replaced flowers for most of the decoration. It was such a new and beautiful perspective on bouquets and arrangements! 

Isn’t that dress amazing?!

I always love a first look, it’s a chance to enjoy the day more fully and photograph everyone when they look their best, right after getting ready. Chris + Colleen met at the front of the alumni house and she came out the door to great him.

don’t they look so good together? they can easily make each other laugh and have fun on a moments notice which always helps

love those adorable headbands! Feathers were carried throughout the design and executed so well! Such a unique take on boutineers + bouquets.

The weather couldn’t have been better for this outdoor October ceremony. It sneaked into the 70′s at one point which is hard to believe for the fall.

Pumpkins were another decoration that was consistently used throughout the reception as the table centerpieces – and they carved a custom thank you pumpkin.

such a good looking bridal party! There were many unique aspects to Chris + Colleen’s day, her engagement ring being one of them. A family heirloom, I have never seen anything like and love how the rings fit together as one.

as the night progressed, the dancing quickly started and lasted well into the evening. It was a party, a celebration and most definitely a night to remember. Hopefully the photos helped you do so, and congrats again to Colleen and Chris and thanks for letting me document your day!