Trump National Golf Club Bedminster: Marisa & Michael: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Marisa and Mike met in 2004.  Their families each had vacation homes in the same community, so while they were from two different states, their paths crossed regularly.  They quickly became close and vacationed together as frequently as possible, both with and without their families.  They grew up together, attending each others' high school, college, and graduate school graduations.

Ten years after they met, Mike proposed to Marisa in the exact place that they'd first met in 2004.  It was just them and he turned to her and asked a question he'd asked many times before, "When are you going to marry me?"  She responded with her usual answer, "When you ask me!"  So he got down on one knee and finally asked.

Our amazing couple chose to get married at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, the same location where Mike's parents married (as one of the first weddings ever held at the club).  Marisa got ready at Michael's parents' home.  Our beautiful bride had her hair done by Dawn Gomez and makeup by Gina Brozon before getting into her Justin Alexander gown.  She completed her look with her mother's purse from her own wedding day, Michael's mother's veil, and a beautiful necklace, hand-picked by Michael just for his bride.

The weather was exactly what you'd hope for in the middle of June - clear skies and a gentle breeze.  The couple had their first look before the ceremony and took photos with their families and bridal party.  With nerves calmed, everyone could excitedly look forward to the beautiful outdoor ceremony.  Michael's father presided over the special ocassion, filling the whole service with love from start to finish.

Inside, the grand reception had been lit and decorated beautifully by Still Life Events.  Cosmopolitan Photo recorded every second, helping to immortalize this amazing couples' dream wedding.  Our favorite part of the day came with Marisa and Michael's first dance, which was an elegantly choreographed moment that had every guest impressed.  Their beautiful cake from Butterfly Bakeshop fit perfectly with the timeless decorations, and LJ DJ kept everyone on their feet, creating a most memorable night.

The Stonehouse at Stirling Ridge: Katherine & Ben: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Ben and Katherine met in 2007 at Georgetown while she was a Sophomore and he was a Junior. They were living in apartments that shared a wall.  They were friends for a few years while Ben was at school - Katherine specifically remembers enjoying his 90s themed dance parties, but they didn’t start dating until after Ben graduated.

Ben went down to Georgetown frequently in the autumn of 2009 (he had graduated the prior Spring), and the couple became even closer.  On December 10, 2009 Ben took Katherine to his fraternity’s winter formal.  Rather than going to dinner with the rest of their friends, Ben asked if Katherine wanted to go out just the two of them. She did, and they talked for hours, ending up being quite late to the formal.

Katherine said yes to a second date the following night.  Over winter break that January, Ben drove out to NJ to take her on their third date.  That night, he met her parents for the first time, along with her grandmother, Nannie.  After Ben left, Nannie turned to Katherine's mother and proclaimed that Ben was the one, and someday he and Katherine would get married.  Sadly, Nannie died just before the wedding, but she got to know and love Ben, and knew that her premonition was about to become a reality.

Ben proposed on December 20, 2013, but the story starts earlier than that.  Ben asked for Katherine's father’s permission to propose on Thanksgiving weekend.  Since her other sisters had known when their husband’s were asking for permission, Katherine's dad figured that she did too.  About five minutes after Ben asked him, her dad said “It’s about damn time” - among other nice “welcome to the family” things. Her dad later told her what had transpired.  After the shock wore off, she started wedding planning immediately, and actually booked The Stone House at Stirling Ridge the very next day, before they were even engaged. 

So then, on December 20, 2013, exactly one year before their wedding - Katherine came home after work to find their apartment completely decked out with red roses, candles and white lights.  It was a beautiful proposal that ended with Ben on bended knee.

With the venue booked, Katherine went to work finding just the right individuals to work with to make her dream wedding come true. Carissa DeMarco from The Stone House worked as the couple's party planner, helping in any way possible.

On the day of the wedding, Amy Jones Baskin of Beauty on Location came to Katherine's home and skillfully created the perfect bridal makeup.  Katherine then moved upstairs and got into her elegant Augusta Jones gown from Kleinfeld.  Her mother then helped her add the finishing touches - a pair of earrings that her father had given to her mother before they were given to Katherine on her thirteenth birthday (which just so happened to be the same pair of earrings that Katherine wore on her first date with Ben), a necklace that had been a gift from Ben, and a bracelet that had belonged to her father's mother, Katherine.  The veil held a special place in everyone's heart as it had been purchased for Katherine by Nannie before she passed away.

Despite the cold, Katherine's warm smile kept everyone in high spirits.  When it came time for portraits before heading to the church, the bride tossed on her gorgeous cape from Alexander Furs and went out onto her parents' front porch, followed by friends and family.  Her stunning flowers, beautifully done by Jardiniere Fine Flowers, were red roses with her grandmother's rosary wrapped around them. For a simple touch of winter, her bride's maids carried ivory roses with pine cones and greenery, a simple touch that added timeless beauty.

The ceremony was held at the Church of Christ the King in New Vernon, where Katherine and Ben proudly stood before all their family and friends and promised to love one another entirely and endlessly.

Guests then moved on to the Stone House at Stirling Ridge, which Jardiniere Fine Flowers had outdone themselves decorating with trees, candles, and alternating white and red roses.  The lighting design, set up by Craig Scott Entertainment, completed the room's transformation. The Craig Scott Orchestra did an excellent job getting everyone on their feet as the couple made their entrance, Mike Simons Video Productions capturing every amazing second. Dancing and laughter carried on late into the night, ending with the traditional tossing of the bouquet and cutting of the cake.

Special thanks to Geraldine Pritchard for helping us capture Katherine and Ben's special day!

Bernards Inn: Chris & Robert: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Robert and Chris are both working parents.  They are both driven yet loving, inspired yet grounded. They're incredibly dedicated; to work, to each other, to family, to love.

On a romantic weekend trip to New York City, Robert proposed to Chris at the Soho Grande Hotel - the same place they'd spent time together years before.  On their way to dinner, Robert insisted upon getting a drink at the bar, only to surprise Chris with an arranged celebration with the four children and parents.

On May 31, 2014, the couple had an intimate wedding at the Bernards Inn.  Chris got ready in a beautiful suite upstairs with her maid of honor. First, her hair and makeup was completed by Express Yourself Salon, and then she stepped into her elegant Pronovias gown.  Her striking blue Kate Spade heels were a fun touch to the tradition of "something blue".  As Chris added the final details to her look (a gorgeous belt and jewelry), the kids went back and forth between her and Robert's room to help in anyway they could.  Then came time for the couple's first look.

Wanting to have a private moment away from all the hustle and bustle of the day, Robert came to Chris's room and set eyes on his beautiful bride.  The love between them was apparent, particularly in their moments of silence as they took time to just be together.

Before the official ceremony, the couple took their children and families to the local park for photos.  The bright sky reflected the cheery spirits of the group.  Back at the inn, Eggsotic Events light the space perfectly, and Somerset Hills Florist added the perfect details to complete the romantic atmosphere of the ceremony.  Chris was escorted down the aisle by her two boys, and couldn't have been happier to meet Robert at the alter. The mix of faiths made for a very personal and one-of-a-kind ceremony.

After the ceremony, we briefly took advantage of the railroad station and rustic barn across the street and snapped a few additional shots of the couple - some of our favorites of the day.

Back inside, the space had been completely transformed.  The warm golden ceremony was now a magical blue wonderland. The couple's DJ, Paul Anthony, did an excellent job, playing all the right music, not just for the celebration and the couple's first dance, but allowing the two parents extra special dances with each of their children.  Later into the night, the DJ gave the mic over to the head table, where it was passed around to the couple's party, made up of beloved friends and family, who gave heartwarming speeches.  The celebration and love carried on through the night - through dancing, cake cutting, and warm wishes for a joy filled future not just for the new couple, but for the new family that had been so beautifully joined.

Trump National Golf Club: Kaitlin and James: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Kaitlin and James met at Villanova University in the middle of their sophomore year. Kaitlin had gone with some of her friends to an event their sorority was throwing, and James had been set up as another girl’s date. A mutual friend introduced them, and they ended up dancing and talking the entire night - even after finding out that they were from rival sports cities once “Sweet Caroline” came on (she’s from New Jersey; he’s from Boston).

Fast-forward to graduation, and besides separate semesters abroad at the beginning of junior year, Kaitlin and James had been together since the moment they met. After graduation, Kaitlin moved to New York, and James headed back to Boston—but not for long... He moved down to New York a few months later.

After four more years together, James decided it was finally time to propose. In August 2013, he asked Kaitlin to marry him in her apartment - she had warned him not to do anything big or public multiple times!

They chose November 8th, 2014 as their special day, and Kaitlin's childhood church as the special place. She got ready at her parent's home, with makeup done by Tara Pagliara and hair by Lindsay Bert of Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa. Kaitlin looked like she belonged on the cover of a magazine in her Cymbeline gown and custom made veil.  She and her father shared an emotional moment together when he first saw her in her dress.  Afterwards, everyone stepped outside, Kaitlin's bridesmaids in blue Jim Hjelm dresses with gorgeous bouquets from Jardiniere Fine Flowers.

The ceremony at Resurrection Parish was particularly special, with Kaitlin's grandfather, a deacon, marrying the couple.  The celebration of the love between Kaitlin and James was done beautifully, and the happy couple got into the limo hand-in-hand, excited to continue the celebration at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster.

Before heading into the cocktail, Kaitlin and James took a short walk around the club, taking time to be one-on-one without all their guests present.  As the sun set, we were able to capture some perfect autumn portraits, shining bright with smiles and love.  Inside, the reception hall was beautifully decorated and the Joe Caroselli and Masterpiece Orchestra were calling for the attention of everyone present.  They announced the entrance of the party before getting everyone on their feet for the arrival of the new Mr. and Mrs.  Surrounded by family and friends, the couple shared their first dance.  Kaitlin's grandfather said a prayer and toasts were given.  The lively group then got on their feet and stopped only for dinner, quickly back on the floor once it was done.

Kaitlin and James, having met at and both graduated from Villanova University, made sure to take a moment and celebrate with all their fellow alumni in a photo with the school banner.  All in all, Kaitlin and James's wedding was exactly what a wedding should be: a lively celebration of love, friends, and family.

A special thanks to David Willems for helping us capture the day!

Short Hills Hilton: Amy & John: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Amy and John met online through Match.com in January of 2008.  Amy ‘winked’ at tall, dark and handsome John, and he wrote back to the girl whose hair reminded him of his treasured springer spaniel, Molly.  They met in person for the first time later that same month at The Dove in Greenwich Village, which is known as one of New York’s most romantic bars.  They quickly discovered that they shared Irish and Polish backgrounds, mid-Western roots, and a love of all things Star Wars. Amy was very impressed with John’s gentleman-like manners and keen wit, while John was intrigued by Amy’s engaging personality and insights into a family full of brothers.  Soon enough, they were celebrating Valentine’s Day together.

Over the years, Amy and John traveled to Bangkok, San Francisco, Millerton NY, London, Paris, the south of France, and numerous trips to New Jersey and Minnesota.

On February 20, 2014, John surprised Amy with a ring over a romantic dinner at Michael Jordan’s Steak House in the majestic Grand Central Terminal in New York City.  Following Amy’s favorable response, the waiter brought champagne, and numerous texts and pictures were sent worldwide.

For their special day, Amy and John decided that there could be no better place to have the ceremony than Amy's own childhood parish.  So when the big day arrived, Amy got ready at her family's home with all of her bridesmaids close at hand.  Their hair and makeup was beautifully done by Gillian Moritz of Beauty Artist Group, while Agnieshka Burke of Pumpkin Coach Events made sure everything was done on time and went smoothly. The headpiece that Amy wore came from John's hometown in Minnesota, while her blue garter was the same one her mother wore on her wedding day. The lace top that Amy wore over her stunning Amsale gown was an elegantly classic touch to complete her look.

Amy arrived at Calvary Episcopal Church with the sun shining through the breathtaking red, orange, and yellow Fall foliage.  With her father by her side, Amy walked down the aisle, her first exciting steps towards a beautiful future with her groom.

The reception was held at the Hilton Short Hills.  A bird theme was chosen for the celebration, which was reflected in the couple's save the dates, invitations, and reception decor. Bloomers Designs did a fantastic job on both the girls' bouquets and the centerpieces in the dining room, with tiny birds tastefully placed amongst the garden roses and hydrangeas. Elan Jazz Society Quartet played beautifully while dinner was served, before guests moved into the next room for fun and dancing with DJ Matty from Elan Artists.  The night ended with cake by the chefs at the Short Hills Hilton, accompanied with another cake that Amy had done up special to surprise John.

Windows on the Water at Frogbridge: Samantha and Brian: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Samantha and Brian met through Match.com.  For their first date, they went to a wine bar (a shared favorite of theirs) and had a very good time, finishing the night with a perfect first kiss.  Within their first three months together, they took two weekend trips - one to Boston to see Van Halen, and the second to Mexico.  On Valentine's Day, Brian cooked dinner and, according to Samantha, "...Along the way, we fell in love."

When asked about the proposal, Brian wrote, "We had just gotten to Montauk for a long Labor Day weekend.  We were on the beach at that perfect time of day, that afternoon early evening calm.  I intentionally left the ring in the room in my bag.  I told Sami I needed to go to the bathroom.  I went back to the room, pulled the box with the ring out of my bag and panicked when I realized I had no place but my bathing suit pocket to hide the ring.  I walked back onto the beach with this bulge sliding from side to side against my thigh as I walked.  I tried to use my arm to hide the obvious.  I was able to sit down next to Sami without her noticing.  I then asked Sami to take a walk with me.  We didn't get very far, I was desperate to get the box out of my pocket.  I stopped her at a spot that I believe to be perfect.  I removed the box from my pocket, got down on my left knee, looked into her eyes, said a few words and proposed.  She said yes and everyone around us cheered.  We had the rest of the weekend to celebrate."

The wedding took place on a perfect Autumn day at Windows on the Water at Frogbridge.  The girls got ready together, hair done by Anne Frances and makeup completed by Christina DePascal Atelier.  Samantha's gown was custom made by her friend, Alice Roi, as were the maid and matron of honor's dresses.  Bloom, the couple's incredibly talented florist, designed the breathtaking bouquets and additional details, such as their stunning huppa and rustic centerpieces.  The love between the bride and groom could be felt by all those present as Samantha walked down the aisle with her eyes locked on Brian.  The ecstatic couple stole a moment alone after the ceremony to simply be together.  This is a couple clearly in love.

The tented reception was decorated with inviting Fall colors and rustic touches such as lanterns and painted wood table numbers.  The cake, designed by Palermo's Bakery, had burlap around each tier and a special heart detail that looked as if it were make of tree bark, with the couple's initials carved into it.  With warm hearts and lots to celebrate, the couple made their entrance with a little help from the Seth Tieger Band.  The night was filled with smiles and love, all captured on video by Gary Licker, and is surely a wedding we will never forget.

The Ashford Estate: Stylized Shoot : New Jersey Wedding Photographers

The Ashford Estate, listed under "Country Estate Weddings" by Weddings of Distinction, is a beautiful and unique venue, offering both rustic romance with its barn house chapel, and regal elegance with its breathtaking manor.  Summer or winter, this estate creates a magical atmosphere perfect for creating one of a kind memories.

Inspired by the beautiful venue, we got together with some of the best vendors to create a dream wedding stylized shoot.  Stephanie Somodi, owner of Designing the Most Inviting Day, provided us with a beautiful invitations, highlighting her amazing talent for detail.  Magnolia Exquisite Florals and Event Decor created all of our stunning bouquets and amazing tabletop arrangements with china provided by Rumson China and Glass.  Our wonderfully talented models came to us from Wilhemina Philadelphia, bringing our ideas for a dream wedding to life.  Allison and Brooke wore gowns from Elizabeth Johns Bridal Salon.  The whole look came together with hair by Michelle Azouz and makeup done by Amy Jones-Baskin and Cassidy Renee Boch of Beauty on Location NJ.

Thank you to the Ashford Estate, and to everyone involved in making this incredible day a reality.  We couldn't have done it without all your time and hard work!

The Bernards Inn: Classic Hollywood Glamor: Somerset County Weddings

We are so excited for the up and coming Bridal Showcase at The Bernards Inn! For more details, check out their site by clicking the link.  Below is one of our favorite weddings from The Bernards Inn.

Meredith & Matthew meet at Moravian College and started dating after he graduated the New York City Police Academy and she moved to New York to study pediatric nursing.  After four love filled years Matthew proposed in Paris!   For the big day Meredith selected a Romona Keveza gown with flowing tulle and lace detailing from Gabriella Bridal Salon paired with a Lady Dior veil and silver Badgley Mischka heels. We just loved how make up artist Ashley Frato accentuated Meredith's radiant smile with just the right shade of color!  She looked as if she could have stepped out of a scene from a classic Hollywood movie.  Matthew and his groomsman were dapper in Jos. A. Banks suites with navy and green ties to accent the bridesmaids J.CREW navy one shoulder sheath dresses.   Jardiniere Fine Flowers selected peonies and green hydrangea for the bouquets creating a fresh from the garden spring look.  Their ceremony was held at the Pluckemin Presbyterian Church, a beautiful white columned church from 1851.  The couple chose The Bernards Inn for their reception site.  There is a classic ease and elegance to The Bernards Inn where Jeffrey B. Haines of Butler’s of Far Hills presents the Signature Style of Entertaining.  Brian Kirk and The Jirks were amazing as always and on hand to keep the party moving.  It was a night to remember!

Maplewood Country Club: A Sweet Wedding Story: Morris County Wedding Photographers

Our adorable couple Kristy & Jeff first bonded over their love of all things sweet, soda to be specific! She went to Quinnipiac University and he went to the University of New Haven and both of them knew right away that their love would be a forever kind of love and that Connecticut would hold a special place in their hearts.  After graduating at different times they kept up a long distance relationship with one in Connecticut and the other in New Jersey.  Summers in Ocean City New Jersey helped keep their relationship full of fun and lightheartedness.  They even had their engagement photos taken on the boardwalk! On the big day Kristy looked absolutely radiant in a satin Judd Waddell gown from Kleinfled Bridal with an embellished veil by Pnina Tornai and glittery Kate Spade heals that were so much fun.  She accented the look with just the right amount of sparkle from Kreations by Anne.  Her bridesmaids wore flowing Grecian column gowns in shades of deep fuchsia.  Bedminster Florist chose the same shade for the peonies in the bridal bouquet with a golden elephant charm for good luck and opted for roses and peonies in all the shades of pink for the girls.  The couple chose the beautiful Church of Christ the King in New Vernon with its stunning blue interior and vibrant community for their touching ceremony.   Tears, smiles and sunshine touched the crowd of friends and family.

The crowd was then off to Maplewood Country Club where they were greeted with signature pink cocktails and fuchsia pashmina wraps to keep them warm as the sun went down over the beautiful flowering cherry blossoms.  Bedminster Florist took Kristy's 'Dorothy meets Cinderella' heels as inspiration for the glittering table cards paired with roses in all shades of pink and lush green leaves.  Touching toasts brought tears of joy and laughter.  Even an honorary soda toast was made to celebrate the two lovebirds sweet first meeting, complete with celebratory pink and white-stripped straws adorned with cute phrases. Celebration Band managed by Jason Craig Entertainment kept this dancing crowd on their toes all night and Magnolia Photobooth Co. captured funny moments.  All in all a very sweet wedding story!