Tagged: wedding photos

Stephanie & Ben – Wedding in Rocky River, Cinco de Mayo, the Derby, and Super Moons

I was so excited that I ended up being early. By 10:30 in the morning, I was pacing around my office waiting to go. I just wanted to start, damn it! By 11:20 I just couldn’t take it anymore. I jumped into the car and drove over to Stephanie and Ben’s house. A rapped the door knocker, but no one was home. I went to the car, threw my stuff in the back and gave Stephanie a ring. Thankfully, she was just around the corner and almost home. The biggest reason I was so excited is because Stephanie and Ben are amazing, but their wedding was also a strange culmination of events. Yesterday was Cinco de Mayo, the Kentucky Derby, a super-moon and their wedding all wrapped into one.

Starting with Stephanie and Ben, they are the kindest people you could imagine. They care for one another, and genuinely care for others as well. Knowing Stephanie, you’d completely understand why she’s a nurse. Both Ben and Stephanie love music and share their passion at concerts and trips to SXSW. Equal to Stephanie, Ben is just a cool guy. He’s the type of person you’d want have a beer with over a football game. Of course it doesn’t hurt that we share a passion for cars!

Their wedding in Rocky River and at the Club at Key Center in downtown Cleveland was amazing. Filled with friends and family, the wedding featured a designed inspired by the day’s events. For example, the reception was beautifully decorated. Stephanie and Ben celebrated the day by featuring Margaritas and Mint Julips at the bar. Whether you wanted to celebrate Mexican heritage or your southern roots, the drink choices were perfect. The band was also rocking the house. Being music fans, Stephanie and Ben found the perfect band to light up the Club.

It was also Super-Moon Saturday. We had planned to sneak out from the reception for a portrait in front of the giant moon, but alas there were clouds. Nonetheless, we got some amazing photos, just a few of which are previewed below –

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie looked beyond beautiful in her gorgeous, slender dress. She was perfectly flawless!

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Above you can feel the excitement. Her family and friends were anxious for her and Ben as well.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Above – custom-made cufflinks. Below – two very cute nephews.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

I love that Ben escorted his parents down the aisle. It was a personal touch that really made a big difference.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

A little trip-up with the vows is always good for a laugh.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Although it’s hard to tell, Stephanie and Ben had amazing weather for early May. Blue skies, full sun and mild temperatures.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

I love proud fathers, as seen above. Below, did I mention the cute kids.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie’s sister and Maid of Honor was thrilled for the new couple. The excitement continues below.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Another personal touch – Stephanie’s sister made her a clutch, by hand, out of their grandmother’s wedding dress.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

 

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Above and below – a stylish design featuring purple orchids to match their wedding colors.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

A hand-drawn seating card and mint julip above. And Stephanie and Ben’s very touching first dance below.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Last but not least – Fitz and the Tantrums to end the night.

Stephanie and Ben's Rocky River wedding, Cinco de Mayo, The Derby and Super Moons

Sure we might have missed the super-moon due to a few pesky clouds. But how do you improve on perfect? That’s all for today. More than anything, I hope Stephanie and Ben enjoy their preview before the depart for their honeymoon tomorrow. I, however, have a full week ahead. There is much, much more coming all week long.

Molly & Dave – A Wedding for Valentines

Molly, Dave and I met in the beautiful lobby of the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Cleveland quite some time ago. We talked about their upcoming wedding, how they met, and what they were looking forward to in the future. It was the perfect setting since their wedding was planned for the same place. We also got along famously from the beginning. They’re quite possibly one of the nicest couples I have met, and desperately in love.

I think Dave loves Molly because she sees the good in everything, and because she is a great mother to their dog, Bella. She cares deeply for the well-being of all, loves her family and loves her friends. I think Molly loves Dave because he is a rock. He is quite funny and quirky, yet sincere. They both have an amazing sense of style and go together like Dolce and Gabbana.

Their romantic wedding at the Renaissance matched them both perfectly. It was filled with loving friends and family. The ceremony was sincere and touching. The toasts at the reception were funny and quirky. Everyone was lively and the style was impeccable. Of course Molly and Dave looked dashing together. His polka-dot cummerbund seemed to fit perfectly with Molly’s flower-laced dress.

Held so close to valentine’s day, the wedding seemed styled for the occasion. While unintentional, the detailing on Molly’s dress looked like a series of hearts. The cake was pink and beautiful red roses provided by Arne’s amazing team at  Blooms Cleveland. Below are a few emotional favorites from this wedding of love.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Above you can just make out the heart-shaped detailing on Molly’s gorgeous dress. It was the perfect fit for the wedding day.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Also a favorite were the very red bride’s maid dresses with flowers to match.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

I’ve had the opportunity to work with Lindsay and Sarah before. As usual, they did an amazing job with make-up and hair styling. The girls looked amazing.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Above, some finishing details and a portrait for Molly. Below, Dave getting dressed in his custom tuxedo. Notice – he’s not wearing a watch. When wearing a tuxedo, a man is not concerned with time, because he is already at the best place possible.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave decided to do a first look in the club lounge at the Renaissance. Above, Dave waiting patiently for Molly as he can hear her approach. Below, a loving first look.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

They are so amazingly sweet together.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

The ladies looking stunning just before the wedding ceremony.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Even though Dave met Molly before the ceremony, he lit up when she entered the room. We have  great series of photos showing Dave shifting from anxious to excited as Molly enters the ceremony.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

During the ceremony, Molly and Dave took a moment to thank some close friends who were responsible for their introduction. It was a wonderfully personal touch.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

They didn’t just share one first kiss, but two with a hug in between. You could really tell how they are best friends as well.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave’s parents were so proud for both of them. Especially Molly’s father, as you’ll see below.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

As usual, Elissa at the Renaissance Hotel in Cleveland did an amazing job coordinating the ceremony and reception. Molly’s style was executed perfectly and the entire room was  aglow. Below, a wonderfully pink cake for valentine’s day.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

 

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly’s father gave a wonderful toast, with handouts. Molly, Dave and guests got to enjoy photos from the past as her father toasted the couple. Below you can see Molly’s mother laughing at a perfect punchline.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

There might have been tears for the best man’s toast. I’m not saying there was, but just maybe.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Above and below are the parents enjoying a dance with their children. This is my favorite time of any wedding. I love my parents and love to see the same for others.

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

Molly and Dave - a Cleveland Valentines wedding

To end the night, we slipped outside into the snow for a quick shot in downtown Cleveland. Molly and Dave were anxious for a picture outside despite the snow, cold and biting wind. We kept them warm inside until the shot was set. Then we rushed out at just the right moment. What a way to end an evening.

Huge, huge thanks go out to our my, Michael and Meghan. Elegantly capturing this wedding would not have been possible without them. We have some more coming soon, so check back again. In the meantime, you can keep up with our current work on Facebook.

Alli & Dan – a stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Let’s start with – Alli and Dan’s wedding was truly amazing! It was a great way to end a busy wedding season. For a few reasons, we were so excited to be a small part of their wedding day. They are such a great couple. Also, the location was simply stunning. This wedding happened to be my first Jewish wedding. Last but not least, the ceremony and reception were full of energy and love. The energy permeated everything. I usually have fun at weddings, but Alli and Dan’s wedding at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Cleveland was truly a blast!

Working with Alli and Dan could not have been better. Normally working with an out-of-town couple can have some challenges. However, Alli’s family was a huge help. Working with her mother before the wedding made all the difference in the world. Plus, I felt a personal connection to Alli and Dan. They were referred to me by friends and live in my old home town – Chicago.

The wedding was entirely hosted by the Renaissance, with the ceremony and reception in different rooms. The design created by Kim Singerman of Noteworthy Events was stylish, opulent and understated all at the same time. Various tones of white were used throughout and it looked amazing. The reception was lit beautifully to really show off the hotel. To compliment the great design, the team at Stephen Tokar Floral & Designs brought in some amazing floral arrangements. They draped a custom-made chuppah in white orchids and used complimentary flowers to decorate the tables.

So what really kept the guests going late into the night? None other than the Jerry Bruno Orchestra. They were so much fun and created an high-energy atmosphere. Below are just a few of my favorite photographs from the day –

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli’s sisters and mother helped her to slip into her gorgeous wedding dress. The full veil was perfect for Alli. We then headed out into downtown Cleveland for a first look.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Coordinating a first look in an open space can always be tough. Thankfully, it was a little easier this time because we had a great team to help out.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Oooh – so exciting! The anticipation always kills me.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

I love Dan’s reaction to seeing Alli for the first time. That reaction is why I always recommend a first look if my clients are willing.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

One of the best times during a Jewish wedding ceremony is signing the Ketubah (marriage contract). The families gather around as the rabbi reads the document and the bridal party signs it. I really like the wide-angle photojournalistic shot above.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

As I noted above, Alli and Dan’s wedding chuppah was gorgeous. It was draped top to bottom in white orchids, candles and beaded crystal threads.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

All happiness and cheers on their wedding day!

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

The reception design created by Noteworthy Events and Stephen Tokar was lavish and classic! Simple white flowers throughout to match each place setting. Even more so, the lighting design really lit up the room (pun completely intended).

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli’s sisters gave the most heart-felt and hysterical toast. They know Alli and Dan so well, and clearly love them to death.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli and Dan’s first dance backed by the Jerry Bruno Orchestra was great. All of the wedding guests stood and cheered the happy couple.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

 The photo above is definitely my favorite. I have a real soft spot for emotional father-daughter dances. Plus, you can just see Alli’s sister in the background snapping a pic of her own.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Of course it wouldn’t be a wedding without the traditional Hora dance. Alli’s mother later commented that it was one of the longest and largest she has seen. I believer her! I was exhausted by the end.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

I think you can see the real excitement above. Everyone, including your’s truly, was so excited for Alli and Dan. You gotta love weddings full of love.

Alli and Dan's stylish autumn wedding in downtown Cleveland

To end, the Jerry Bruno Orchestra doing their thing. One of Alli’s bride’s maids jumped in on the singing action. So, that’s all for today. Definitely stop back soon as I have more coming to the website. Also, give us a “like” on Facebook where you can keep up with our current work.

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