You really couldn't ask for a more perfect day. The weather was divine, the ideal temperature, partly cloudy and no rain. The kind of day everyone hopes for when planning their wedding. And it couldn't have happened for nicer people.

I met Suzanne and Rob 3 weeks before their wedding at their charming house for an engagement session. It was another beautiful Sunday, foreshadowing the upcoming nuptials. We spent an hour together, taking pictures and having fun with Jay, their 3 year old son. Engagement sessions are like an intense practice. They allow you to become more comfortable in front of the camera, with your photographer (me) and with pda. I know it's weird to have someone watching you make out and cuddle, but it looks great in photographs! Connection is a big part of a great image, your connection together, trust in me, knowing the posing, your comfort in front of the camera. So the more prepared and comfortable you feel, the more smoothly and quickly we can get everything done during your wedding day. I feel like Suzanne and Rob didn't need too much practice, they were obviously very comfortable with each other. You know when a couple's been together for a while, and you can just feel the bond and anticipation of what the other person thinks/needs? That's what Suzanne and Rob have.

Arriving at the Maplewood Country Club, I walked in and found Suzanne getting her hair and makeup done, while chatting with her bridesmaids. They helped her into her dress and shoes and assisted with some last minute jewelry choices. ( I loved what they chose, really went with the look. ) Once we had taken some bridal portraits, it was time for first look.

Rob was waiting outside with Jay, who wanted to see Mommy! We assured him she was coming and soon enough, Jay ran to greet her and then Rob turned around and got a good look. He was grinning from ear to ear! We walked around the golf course ( never on the greens ) and took some gorgeous shots. What a beautiful venue! The bridal party was very close friends and family.

The ceremony began with friends playing Irish music. Jay walked his parents down the aisle and then headed out for a well deserved nap. Suzanne and Rob said vows to each other with love, laugher and a tear or two. They included a special sand ceremony, mixing three different colors together to represent the members of their family. After the first official kiss as husband and wife, Rob grabbed Suzanne's hand and triumphantly swung their hands in the air! It was time to party!

I mean take family photos. Which only took about 15 minutes. And then party! 

Many of the guests chose to spend cocktail hour outside. As I mentioned earlier, it was a beautiful day which transitioned into a beautiful evening. There was some fantastic jazz music too. ( I don't know a whole lot about jazz but I really enjoyed what I heard.) After dancing to the classic "Fly Me to the Moon" by Frank Sinatra and a short dance set, it was time for toasts. I enjoy listening to toasts, you can always learn something fascinating. Like Suzanne plays the fiddle with an Irish music group or Rob is someone who goes "all in" and loves jazz. The rest of the evening commenced with dining and dancing and dessert. SO MUCH DESSERT! Cake and ice cream and cookies and cupcakes and ice pops! It was a sweet tooth's dream come true. And Jay's, I think!

Thanks to Lynda Bailey for being a great second photographer, Maggie McGill for recommending me, Eileen for being awesome to work with, and most of all, Suzanne and Rob for trusting me on your big day!! 

Wedding Planner: An Affair to Remember

Hair and Makeup: Truly Happy Beauty

Florist: Lotus Petals Floral Design, LLC

Videographer: Volyar Media, LLC

Officiant: Dana Lawson

Jazz Trio: Yuma Uesaka

DJ: Unique Musique

Venue: Maplewood Country Club