New York City is the world's biggest bee hive. There is constant motion and an overwhelming busy feeling to it. Being in the subway, getting a bite to eat, going to a ball game... that constant motion is always there. On Friday for Jen and Marco's wedding, we got to stop, enjoy the moment... and let the busy world pass us by while we stayed present in our moment in time.
We started the day while Jen got ready at "The Lexington" in one of Joe DiMaggio's old apartments. Like, the EXACT apartment where he and Marilyn Monroe used to live together in the 1950's. Good start to the day. My beautiful Wife Alysen was in the wedding and it was so cool to have her there. I've never shot a wedding that she was a part of and I'm so glad I got to share this experience with her!
After some awesome portraits we headed to Central Park for the first look and ceremony to follow. My 2nd shooter and good friend Brian placed Marco under this amazing pergola for the first look. When a Groom turns and sees his Bride for the first time, it is always a special moment and this time was no different. We did some killer Wedding Party shots and then headed to the ceremony at the Conservatory Garden. The Ceremony was elegant, intimate and perfect. They spoke straight from the heart and reminded everyone in attendance how special their love truly is.
After the Ceremony we headed off from there to hit the MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art) steps and then down to Gapstow Bridge. On the way to the bridge we noticed this incredible clearing in the trees that showed the city through the park and we had to get Jen and Marco up there. Standing on a ledge with no shoes on, in her wedding dress, she told me multiple times " I'm going to die on my wedding day..." I assured her the photo was worth it. It was. Sampled as the headline photo of this blog, It is one of my favorites I took on the trip and I'm happy I got to capture that moment for Jen and Marco to look back on for a life time.
Once photos were done we headed over to the Reception at the Landmarc restaurant. The owner of the restaurant is Marc Murphy (a judge on the popular television show "Chopped") and he even stopped by to congratulate the newlywed couple! The reception was perfect for everyone in attendance as the food was amazing, the entertainment was spot on and the dessert? Fuggedaboutit... that was great too. I know because I polished off an entire tray of desserts just myself. I was not ashamed.
Overall, it was one of the most incredible experiences for me to shoot a wedding in New York City. Having two awesome and beautiful people in Jen and Marco made it that much better. Thank you both for such a wonderful time this week and I can't wait for the next opportunity to capture moments in your lives!
New York... I shall see you again. Hopefully sooner than later.
