Mantoloking Yacht Club: Cameron and Alston: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Our amazing couple first met in college at Washington and Lee University while Cameron was a senior and Alston was a junior.  Their first date was in the Autumn of 2010, when they attended a local Halloween haunted house and corn maze event called HalloSCREAM.  They've been together ever since.

When Cameron graduated in May 2011, she began working in New York City, before moving to Washington D.C.  Alston, on the other hand, decided to go to Wake Forest for medical school in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.  On September 6, 2013, Alston drove all the way to Washington D.C. to surprise Cameron.  As Cameron explained, the story is a long one, but it involved Alston waiting on the roof of her building for two and a half hours, Cameron getting home late, and a wonderful proposal that stunned her.  Cameron said yes and the couple are living in the same city again!

While the bride and her many bridesmaids joyfully got ready for the big day at her family's home in Mantoloking (a home that had been in her family for generations), the weather outside did not mirror their bright spirits.  But the pouring rain, however, did not dampen anyone's excitement! The girls did their own hair and makeup and got into their blue Jenny Yoo gowns as Cameron recruited her sister to help her into her Sarah Janks gown.  The delicate final touches were a gorgeous diamond pin that had been in Cameron's family for generations, and her grandmother's lace veil.  With beautiful bouquets by Katydid in hand, the girls hopped in the car and drove a few houses down before reaching the church.

The couple said their vows at St. Simon-by-the-Sea before being whisked away in an antique firetruck from the early 1900s to their reception at the Mantoloking Yacht Club just down the road.  The couple's radiant smiles were clearly visible even through all the rain.  The Bachelor Boys' Band got the party rolling immediately upon arrival. Cameron, being extremely artistic, painted the table cards, while a few other special decorations were done by here sister, giving the night an extra loving touch.  The couple had guests from two-thirds of the United States, which they proudly displayed through each state's flag hanging out on the dock.  And, boy, did these guests know how to dance!  Marshall Miller captured the night on video while Ann Hawley kept everything running smoothly, allowing the bride and groom to happily enjoy their day.  When it came time to cut the cake from Mueller's Bakery in Bay Head, Cameron and Alston happily made a mess feeding their piece to one another.  Dancing carried on late into the night before the couple made a magical exit through a line of sparklers and sailed off into their beautiful future together.

The Stone House at Stirling Ridge: Alexis and Jim: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Alexis met Jim in Atlantic City while enjoying a weekend with friends.  Jim approached her at the Irish pub, Ri Ra, and there was an instant connection.  They had a fun night talking and singing to 90s music before trading numbers and parting ways.  Jim was a helicopter pilot for the Navy living in Virginia, so Alexis sadly believed she would not see him again.  But they spoke every night and two weeks later, he flew to New York for their first date.  The couple dated long distance for a year and half before Jim asked Alexis to move in with him as he relocated to San Diego.

On the drive across the country, the excited duo stopped at the Grand Canyon to take in the sights.  Finding a secluded place away from other tourists, Jim got down on one knee and asked Alexis to marry him.  She remembers it as the most exciting day of her life.

Nearly a year and a half later, the couple said their vows at the beautiful Stone House at Stirling Ridge.  Alexis and her bridesmaids had their hair done by Pink Comb Studio, while their makeup was put together by Denise at Facewear.  Prior to the ceremony, Alexis and Jim stole a moment to be with one another, and when the time came, Jim stood proudly in his Naval dress whites as Alexis walked down the aisle on her father's arm in her Augusta Jones gown.  The bride and her bridesmaids carried stunning bouquets of ivory, peach, and white roses that were put together by A Touch of Elegance, keeping with the couple's theme of a light, woodsy feel. At the end of the ceremony, as per Naval tradition, the couple exited through a sword arch, which consisted of six Naval men in uniform creating an archway with their sabers.

Upon entering the reception, the couple's vision for an elegant woodland environment came to life. Place cards, designed by Wedding Paper Divas, looked like tree carvings, held in place by small potted trees. The rustic cake was decorated with a large tree.  The lighting designer and DJ from Eclipse Events set the tone for a proper celebration that kept all the guests moving well into the night.  The excited newlyweds were all smiles as they left looking forward to a honeymoon in Fiji and the rest of their lives together.

Mantoloking Yacht Club: Tabitha and Scott: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Tabitha and Scott were seniors in high school when they first met.  Tabitha was throwing a New Year's Eve party when Scott decided to make an (uninvited) appearance.  The couple dated until college, having a mutual split as not to hold one another back. But they stayed in touch, and eventually both ended up having internships in New York City between their junior and senior years of college.  They would commute together and spend their free time on the weekends together at the beach.  After graduation, the two started jobs in New York and adopted their beloved dog, Simba.  Living only minutes away from one another, Tabitha and Scott were finally able to enjoy life together after four years apart.  A short while later, they moved in together, and the rest is history!

As the storm clouds started to roll in over the horizon, everyone crossed their fingers that the rain would hold off for Tabitha and Scott's September 6th wedding.  The day began hot and humid as Tabitha and all of her bridesmaids got ready just a short distance from the church.  Each bridesmaid chose her own peach dress, creating a uniquely delicate aesthetic. Erica Rennie did a beautiful job on all of the girls' makeup while Kyle Murray of Place Vendome completed their look with stunning updos.  The girls then moved to a house just across the street from the location of the ceremony, where Tabitha got into her gorgeous Monique Lhuiller gown and Michael Kors heels. 

By the time the ceremony was to begin, the heat had eased somewhat, but the wind was picking up.  With help from their fantastic party planner, Colleen of Lovely Day Styling, the girls walked to the church, spectacular bouquets by Jaclyn Iris in hand. Tabitha and her father followed, arm-in-arm, and began their walk down the aisle outside of St. Simon by the Sea (allowing their guests who did not fit into the small church to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking bride).

The couple asked a friend to help officiate the wedding, making ceremony extra special.  Afterward, guests moved down the street to the Mantoloking Yacht Club, where Tabitha and Scott made their grand entrance with their bridal party by boat.  Mother Nature, understanding how special the day was, pushed the storm clouds north, giving guests a bit of a light show with some lightning, but keeping the rain at bay.  The couple's amazing band, New Power Soul, kept the party on their feet the whole night, while videographer Marshall Miller captured every precious moment.  The couple finished the evening, not with a cake, but with an ice cream truck and sweet treats - a perfect ending to a such a magical day.

The Ashford Estate: Country Estate Wedding: New Jersey Wedding Photography

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 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!

Trump National Golf Club: A Summer Solstice Wedding : New Jersey Wedding Photography

On a perfect Saturday in June, Jenna and Jim stood outside in front of a large gathering of friends and family, and said "I do" to happily-ever-after together.  The couple first met after Jenna's cousin did a bit of matchmaking, picking Jim out of her husband's group of friends as someone who may hit it off with Jenna. Two years later, on Jenna's birthday, Jim proposed.

Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, was the ideal location for the elegant summer wedding.  The ceremony took place outside in front of an extravagant fountain and beautiful flowers. Jenna wore a stunning gown from Elizabeth Johns, accompanied by her mother's veil and earrings handpicked by her groom.  Jim could not have been any happier as he stood at the top of the stone steps in an Armani tuxedo, eyes locked on Jenna as she walked down the aisle with her father.  The bridesmaids lined the left side of the steps in their Amsale dresses from Bella Bridesmaid and bouquets by Mike Pellegrino of Jardiniere Fine Flowers.  On the opposite side of the stairs stood Jim's groomsmen, most of whom Jim had known since high school.  Together, Jenna and Jim stood beneath a beautifully adorned arch and proclaimed their everlasting love for each other.

Inside, Jenna's mother and grandmother had worked endlessly to get everything perfect.  Without them, the wedding would not have been the amazing event that it was, helping Jenna immensely with each detailed decision, from the stationary by Linda Gamba of Paperazzi, to the lighting design by Eggsotic Events, to the amazing Jason Craig Band.  After cocktail hour upstairs on the veranda, guests came down into the spectacular ballroom decorated in hues of purple.  From the start of the reception, with Jenna and Jim's first dance, through the speeches from Jenna's parents, sister, cousin, and Jim's best friend, until the end, with dancing and cutting of the cake, Jenna and Jim shined with love and happiness on their perfect day.

Manasquan River Golf Club: Classic Elegance: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Lauren said it was the happiest day of her life.  She and her boyfriend, Stephen, were on a trip to Bermuda watching the sun set from their balcony when he asked her to marry him.  Now, since their beautiful wedding on June 14, Lauren says that Stephen's proposal is the second happiest day of her life.

On the big day, Lauren and her bridesmaids got ready at her parents' home where Lauren had grown up.  Hair stylist, Po Mology from LC Style Lounge, did everyone's hair, while the talented bride did her own makeup.  Lauren radiated joy as she got into her Pronovias gown and Jimmy Choo heels. The bridesmaids wore silver dresses by Alfred Sung with a neckline and back that mimicked the bride's gown.  Stephen and Lauren stole a private moment away from the rest of the group, before the girls took a limo to The Church in Brielle.  The sign outside of the church read, "God Bless Lauren and Stephen."

The reception, only a short drive down the street from the church, was at the Manasquan River Golf Club.  Cocktails were served up on the second story deck.  While guests arrived and caught up, the bride and groom took a golf cart to the water and took a brief moment to enjoy their glorious day.

Back at the club, the ballroom had been perfectly arranged with flowers by Craig Kiely and Darryn Murphy Designs.  MaryKate McMahon, who'd done the calligraphy for the couple's William Arthur invitations from the Paper Source, did a wonderful job on all the escort cards, which were set out as you entered the celebration from the deck above.  Gary Gellman helped to immortalize the night by capturing the couple's big day and first dance on video, while E Studio Entertainment travelled all the way from Pittsburgh to fill the night with great music and lots of dancing.  It was clear as the night went on that not only was the couple in love, but that they were surrounded by the deep love of family and friends.

10 Wedding Photography Tips For Your Big Day! : NJ Wedding Photographers

1. Prep: About a month out, set up a meeting with your photographer to go over your timeline and details.  The big day flies by for most brides, and the more details you work out before hand, the less you have to think about on your special day.  This is a great time to give them your shot list and mention any special guests that you want images of, like college friends or people coming from oversees. 

2. Details, Details: Let your photographer know if there are any special details that hold meaning, like a grandmother’s veil or the to-die-for table linens that were specially made.

3. Family Dynamics: Inform your photographer of any family situations that they need to be aware of.  It can be awkward for everyone when your photographer keeps asking your divorced in-laws to squeeze together and smile. 

4. Shot List: It is a great tool for a photographer to have a shot list.  A professional photographer will already know the standard photos but it is great to go over what those are in your prep meeting.  Give them a who’s-who of family names and any special shots.  Examples of special shots may be college friends, your mother’s siblings, or a cousin shot. Try not to give them a Pinterest board of other work or 6 pages of requests as this can hinder their natural eye and make for less emotional shots.

5. Pad the Schedule: Hair and makeup are an important part of your day.  I always recommend leaving a little extra time in your schedule, as sometimes in the flurry of activity and bridesmaids, it can take longer then expected.  We love to have a bride be almost ready when we arrive with just the finishing touches of hair and make up.

6. Get Mom Ready First: Many brides love to have their mother, sister or maid of honor there to help them into the dress.  It makes for beautiful intimate photos. Whomever you want there, make sure that they are dressed and ready when you step into the dress.

7. Bring the Family: Once your dressed it’s wonderful to have a little time for your immediate family photos.  If possible make sure they are all at the same location.  It’s a beautiful memory and makes the later portraits shorter, which is wonderful if you and your hubby want to enjoy cocktail hour.

8. Keep It Private: Friends and family will surround you all day and that is amazing, but it can be intimidating for a first look.  We recommend taking that time just for the two of you.  It makes for more intimate, emotional images.

9. Put Your Friends to Work: Large family photos can be hard to wrangle.  If possible it can be great to do big family shots after the ceremony on the steps if there is shade.  This lets everyone enjoy the rest of the party.  Appoint a good friend who is not in the photos but knows who everyone is to help gather people.

10. Sneak Away: The last half hour of cocktails, right before sunset, is a gorgeous time for photos.  It can also be romantic to have a minute to take a deep breath and enjoy the company of your new spouse!

One Atlantic: A Wedding with a View: New Jersey Wedding Photography

In 2007, Moira met Michael.  They worked together for the same company in Connecticut and shared the same friends at work.  It was when they began spending time together outside of work, however, that they found they had a lot in common.  Both Michael and Moira loved to be active and learn.  Over time, their friendship grew as they pushed each other to try new things.  Moira learned to snowboard in order to keep up with Michael, and he took up swimming in order to compete in a triathlon with Moira.

Eventually, Moira changed jobs and moved to New York.  With the move, the two athletes realized just how much they’d enjoyed spending most of their time together, and they now had to actively seek each other out.  They were pleased to find that it all worked out seamlessly and felt very natural, which led to a more serious relationship between the two of them.  Their time together has been nothing but a fun and exciting ride since it began.  In 2012, Mike proposed on the first night of a vacation in Capri.

On a beautiful Saturday in May, the couple stood in front of their most beloved family and friends at the One Atlantic in Atlantic City, and read out their own vows.  Moira was the definition of beauty with her hair and makeup done by Bella Angel, and her Pronovias lace gown and Badgley Mischka heels.  Her bridesmaids were flawless in their dark blue Amsale gowns from Bella Bridesmaid and bouquets by Rainflorist.  Michael could have been mistaken for 007 in his custom tux, while all the groomsmen were dashing in their own personal tuxes.

The reception was put together wonderfully with blue tables, and touches of white found in the flowers and hanging candles above the dance floor.  Michael’s mother gifted each seat with her special chocolate chip cookies, and the couple’s wedding cake came from her very own carrot cake recipe.  ExtraStep Video captured the night, while Wilson Stevens “Eye 2 Eye” band made the party unforgettable.

Mantoloking Yacht Club: A Perfect Day on the Water: New Jersey Wedding Photography

It was through a mutual friend that Lindsay and JJ met.  The couple had grown up in neighboring towns, but their paths did not cross until after college.  They met at the Fourth of July Mantoloking Centennial Celebration, and were set up on their first date the following weekend.  On their one-year anniversary, JJ proposed on the beach in Mantoloking, and Lindsay happily said yes! Their love for their beach town made it an easy pick for the location of the ceremony and reception.  On September 28^th, the stunning bride got ready at her family’s home just a short walk from the church.  Her Liancarlo lace dress was just the right mix of elegance and airiness to fit the shore location.  Her bride’s maids each chose their own style of beautiful blue J. Crew dresses, which went perfectly with their hydrangea bouquets that were skillfully put together by florist Kate Duffy.

The ideal weather made it an easy walk to the church, St. Simon-by-the-Sea.  The joyful couple made their vows surrounded by loving family and friends before walking to the reception at the Mantoloking Yacht Club, just two blocks away.  A large tent had been assembled for the big day, decorated with the signature flower.  The couple’s florist, Kate Duffy, doubled as their party planner and found no detail too small, from the mason jars filled with lemonade and paper straws, to the sparklers at the end of the night.  The love that filled the room was apparent, not only from the smiles on everyone’s faces, but the hugs and tears that came from the dances and speeches.  The New Power Soul Band got every single guest on their feet, while the beautiful bay view at sunset took everyone’s breath away. The cake held a lot of sentiment for the bride, coming from a favorite childhood location, the Oldwick General Store, which managed to survive Super Storm Sandy.  It was truly a special day.