When Stephen and Taylor first contacted me about their wedding at the Landmark Theatre, I was thrilled to have the chance to photograph in such a beautiful space. As they explained their story and their plans for this special day, I could already envision the tender moments that I would capture and the wonderful display of love that would be impossible to miss.
It was quite apparent from my first chat with these two, that details were not the preferred focus of the day. Stephen would declare, “I don’t need 25 pictures of a piece of cake…emotions are what matter most.” Nonetheless, though, a few quick glimpses of Taylor’s gorgeous shoes and their homemade table settings did make there way into mine and my second shooter's cameras.
The guys and the girls were so wonderfully cooperative throughout all of my crazy group photo ideas. After mistaking the water fountain in the groomsmen’s basement changing area as a urinal, I certainly got more than a few great smiles and laughter at my own expense. On the opposite end of the emotional spectrum were the bridesmaids who all were desperately trying not to cry as Taylor faced them on the stairway in her magnificent wedding dress.
As we waited at St. Matthew’s Church for the bride to arrive, my amazing second shooter Emma Bauso was stationed at the entrance in order to capture the flowing train of Taylor’s dress as she made her long-awaited walk down the aisle. I, then, was able to capture Stephen’s first reaction to seeing his bride.
The Catholic mass, led by the priest who was a dear friend of the couple, was a time filled with reflection, thankfulness, and celebration of love. This was all concluded wonderfully as Taylor and Stephen beamed the smiles of true happiness while walking back down the aisle as husband and wife.
Back at the Landmark Theatre, it was time for continued celebration with friends and family. Also, though, the few moments I was able to steal away for portraits of the new couple alone helped them to focus on the reason for the day - their love for one another.
Thank you again to all involved: bride, groom, bridesmaids, groomsmen, family members, and other wedding vendors - you were seriously so great to work with!
I wish you, the happy couple, the absolute best in your future life together, and hope that you continue to make others smile as I myself couldn’t stop doing throughout your wedding day! Congratulations Stephen and Taylor!
Vendors:
Hair and Makeup: Hair & There
Florist: Bloominous
Dress: Designer Loft, NYC
Catering: Dominick’s Restaurant
Formalwear: Men’s Warehouse
Reception Venue: Landmark Theatre
Ceremony: St. Matthew’s Church, East Syracuse
Second Photographer: Emma Bauso