It looked like it was going to rain. Mike Woods said it was going to rain. My right knee was throbbing. Precipitation was inevitable. That said, nothing was going to ruin this day. Not even a little sprinkle.
This past July, I had the pleasure of documenting the vows of Shelli and Michael in a wedding that was equal parts elegant, classy and serene. The ceremony took place in Michael’s parent’s backyard, a lush stretch of grass nestled in the New Jersey suburbs. Shelli’s father handmade the ketubah – a stunning wedding contract featuring brilliant calligraphy with colorful etchings. It truly is a work of art.
The two joined hands and shared rings under a small chuppah while close friends and family watched on with tears of joy and smiles all around. One by one, Shelli and Michael’s relatives said a small speech and prayer for the couple, and as luck would have it, the rain held out until the first kiss.
The good news was that the reception was being held at the Liberty House. Overlooking Manhattan, The Liberty House is one of the most amazing restaurants/reception halls I’ve had the chance to photograph. Between the views, the open spaces, and the huge chess board outside, the location is simply to die for.
This was the first Polish meets Persian reception I’ve been part of and between the great food and constant dancing, I didn’t want to leave. DJ Gaza mixed middle eastern and modern music all night long as the bride and groom tore up the dance floor. This was a feast for the eyes and the soul, and I was so glad to be part of the festivities.
Special thanks to Joe Papeo for second shooting for us, and as always, a big hug to Allison for running the show and keeping me sane.
Second Shooter: Joe Papeo
Venue: Liberty House, Jersey City, NJ
Caterer: Foremost/RAM
Gown: Mahrokh Design
DJ: Gary Hoffman, aka DJ Gaza
Hair: Lovemore & Do Salon
Makeup: Christie Lee
Flowers: The Plant Shed
Guitarist: Dan Nadel
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Absolutely beautiful storytelling here. The location is lovely too!
These are gorgeous images. The bride and groom will love these. Beautiful!
Love how you captured the bride’s expressions. She’s got a beautiful smile and you captured it perfectly.
lovely set. my favourites are the party shots…so much fun and emotion.
Loving the sparkler shots outside. Nice work!
Love your reception shots! Looks like a great party!
Stunning work – the image with the skyline really stands out, but you captured so many beautiful expressions!
Great job. I love the last image particularly. The Liberty House is a wonderful place to shoot. Best view of the city.
Great work, like the ones with the sparklers a lot!
Hey… I know that place. Isn’t that right over the Hudson? I remember we used to take the Path over there to go shopping at the Mall that’s right around there. Right? Or am I thinking of something else?
Great images! Brilliant shot of the venue with the giant chess pieces.
@Thomas: Yup, it’s right in the heart of Liberty State Park. Stunning views all around.
Sparklers at a cake cutting = AWESOME. And I adore that first black and white shot, beautiful.
lots of energy and colour, great work!