Premier Tour of The Ashford Estate: Weddings of Distinction: New Jersey Wedding Photographers

It was an honor to attend the premier tour of The Ashford Estate, a pristine new luxury venue in Allentown, New Jersey from founder Chris Vernon.  Guests were treated to divine food stations by Main Street Catering,  hors d’oeuvres by Merri-Makers,and mixology by Marsilios.  Vernon also choose to unveil his newest project Weddings of Distinction to hand selected wedding vendors from the area.  Weddings of Distinction will be a collection of the finest destination wedding estates in New Jersey and Long Beach Island known for their exquisite staff & finest vendors.   These estates include The Bonnet Island Estate, Mallard Island Yacht Club, The Stateroom, and now The Ashford Estate.  Please enjoy the tour!

Ashford_1The Ashford Estate could only be described as height of elegance.  The reflection pool with cypress trees and Grecian columns create a monumental yet peaceful backdrop for an outdoor ceremony, situated next to the beautiful antique pole barn for indoor ceremonies.

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Ashford_02The Conservatory overlooks a picturesque pond with a floating gazebo, fountain, and stone bridge.

Ashford_04A tour around the property leads from one breath taking scene to the next.

Ashford_05From the moment I arrived upon the lion~clad iron gates and tree lined drive I knew this estate was the perfect setting for a romantic retreat.

Ashford_06The Tiffany blue french style bridal suite is light and airy with dramatic mirrored french doors leading to the grand staircase and hand painted domed ceiling.  Perfect for bridal portraits!

Ashford_07A palm tree lined path leads guests along to the grand ballroom with custom Fennelli lighting.  Looking out the windows it seem as if the ballroom was placed in the middle of a Tuscan vineyard.

Ashford_08The dramatic entrance leads the way to a beautiful wood appointed library on one side & parlor room on the other.  Lush fully mature trees and maticulously manicured gardens create a tranquile & refined atmosphere.

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Ashford_10The rooms are elegantly apponited with warm & inviting fireplaces and beautiful views.

Ashford_11The sunsets on the estate took my breath away!

Asbury Park Charm: New Jersey Wedding Photographers

I had such a lovely time photographing Joan & Kevin for a family portrait that I was thrilled when they told me they wanted me to capture their July 3rd wedding!  It was simple & elegant and filled with such joy!  Kevin wore a dashing seersucker suit, one of my favorite looks for men at a shore weddding.  Joan look radiant in a delicate gown with petal overlays and classic pearls.  It was wonderful to capture Joan's expressions during the ceremony. One of my favorite caterers Mumfords was on hand for the backyard reception.  It was such fun!! Lynch_7

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Bonnet Island Escape: Bonnet Island Estate Wedding Photographers

Jessica & Michael met on holiday in the Bahamas.  She lived in New York; he lived in New Hampshire.  Despite geographical differences they both knew it was love at first sight and two weeks later they had their first date.  It was fitting that the two choose The Bonnet Island Estate on LBI to wed.  The private island escape was such a peaceful backdrop with its lush grasses and wild birds it was as if the couple was still on holiday.

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Foire_Jessica_Layout_02Michelle Santanello of MDS Floral Designs made elegant & airy bouquets wrapped in blush silk and sequins.  Hand painted signs led the way to the ceremony.

Foire_Jessica_Layout_03The pre-wedding outfits were just way to cute!

Foire_Jessica_Layout_04Stephanie Somodi of Designs by Stephanie incorporated Jessica's blue & green theme in an elegant design for the invitations, programs, and menues.  Jessica's hairpiece was antique silver with pearl.

Foire_Jessica_Layout_05The bridal gown by Michelle Roth available at Kleinfeld Bridal caught the light so beautifully at every turn.

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Foire_Jessica_Layout_12Bubbles added a touch of whimsy & joy after the ceremony.

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Foire_Jessica_Layout_17We fell in love with the twobirds bridesmaids dresses, one dress can be worn 15 different ways!  Each girl wore her dress in a different style to complement their shape and they look so so comfortable.  The flower girls were twirling all day long!

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Foire_Jessica_Layout_19Jessica's mother & stepfather gaze at the newlyweds.

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Foire_Jessica_Layout_22Michelle of MDS Floral Designs used crisp pinks and greens to create a warm & welcoming atmosphere complemented by candlelight and hand painted signs with sweet phrases.   The bride's mother Charlene helped to plan every perfect detail aided by the fabulous Day of Coordinator Heather Furgeson. Merri-Makers Catering provided exquisite food and service as always!

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Foire_Jessica_Layout_24Who else but french luxury shoe designer Christian Louboutin could have made the bride's ravishing red heeled stilettos?

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Foire_Jessica_Layout_28The bride and her mother danced a mother daughter dance while watching a video montage of Jessica's father, a firefighter that passed away in 9.11.01.  Jessica's engagement ring holds the diamond that her father gave to her mother.

Foire_Jessica_Layout_29Premier Event Rentals set up a fun photo booth complete with great costumes for the guests to enjoy.

Foire_Jessica_Layout_30A romantic sunset stroll on the reed covered banks of Bonnet Island completed the day!

New Vernon: Congratulations to Lauren & Rob!: New Vernon Wedding Photographers

I was so pleased to see the new fall addition of New Jersey Bride Magazine. Congratulations to our handsome couple Lauren & Rob!  I'm looking forward to photographing Lauren's sister Brooke and her fiance Matt at their wedding next spring! NJBride_Page_1_Fall2010

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Manufacture De Monaco Exclusive Truck Show: Monmouth County Commerical Photographers

We are just so excited to have been invited to the Manufacture De Monaco Exclusive Truck Show!  A portion of the proceeds will go to the Princess Grace Awards a wonderful organization that supports emerging talent in theater, dance, and film.  This event was hosted by the lovely owners of  Rumson China & Glass.  Sperry Tents brought in such a unique tent for the event!  Darryn of Darryn Murphy Designs created the sweet and elegant arrangements and Mumfords Catering tempted quests with delicious h'orderves.