T H E A RT (A N D H E ART) OF A NEW YORK WED D ING JA N UA RY 2020 | VO LU M E 01 | ISS U E 01
CONTRIBUTORS Megan Breukelman Kenneth Gronquist Mandy Forlenza Cenza Della Donna Sam Sullivan Ivona Kaplan Judson Rappaport Astray Photography Haleigh Nicole Photography Danielle Defayette Everly Studios
Special Thanks MyMoon Cordelia Breukelman Latisha McClung Yohaidy Pichardo
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This publication is copyright © Brooklyn Wedding Photo LLC (2020). Do not copy or redistribute without permission. All content is copyright © to respsective authors. Published January 2020. Edited by Megan Breukelman. Published by Brooklyn Wedding Photo LLC.
Anyone else a little tired of being told what to think is pretty, or chic, or cool? When I planned my wedding, it was exceedingly difficult to find out of the box ways to have a wedding. It felt like I was seeing the same trends, venues and styles over and over again. It can get exhausting and it can be creatively draining to plan a wedding when you’re told exactly what you should want from your wedding. The wedding industry is full of some of the hardest working people pulling long hours, and shaping their work to meet the needs of others. This industry is also one that is full of people who absolutely love what they do. If they didn’t, would they really pull out all the stops? That’s why I created this space to bring wedding creatives and couples together. There is so much talent and creativity in this industry. When given a chance to tell unique stories, think outside the box
with styling, and collaborate with likeminded creatives, true magic can happen. Your wedding should be an expression of who you are, whoever you are. There is no one-size-fits-all in life, in love, and in marriage. Why should the one day that you’re able to pour your heart and soul into be dictated by what other people think is beautiful? Betrothed Magazine is about the art (and heart) of a New York wedding. We’re looking at celebrations and vendors catering to all types of couples in the tri-state area. We’re in a beautiful, diverse place with so much inspiration. I can’t wait to see all of the incredible work to come. Let’s plan celebrations with heart.
MEGAN BREUKELMAN
@meganbreukelman
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Grace & Stacey
REAL WEDDING JUDSON RAPPAPORT PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING AT ROBERTA’S PIZZA BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
PHOTOGRAPHER JUDSON RAPPAPORT WRITES... Grace and Stacey meet after a night of goodhearted college frolicking each dressed in an adult-sized onesie. According to them, “Shortly after that day we held hands underneath the table at a noisy sandwich shop. Two massive sandwiches plopped down in front of us. Secretly smiling, we turned to each other and simultaneously asked if we wanted to share. Endless bites later we’re now sharing our lives together.” The couple envisioned a celebration all of their friends and family from high-school to college to grad school and beyond to joined from all across the county to share an unforgettable slice of pizza (or two or three) and delicious pint (or two or three) of beer. Food and bringing people together is so important to the two of them, they wrote, “All of the places we’ve traveled, moments we’ve shared, and homes we’ve built have all come together through a great meal and a glass of beer. We like to say that all we need is a good food, good conversation, good beer, and good ketchup.” The couple even went with out the traditional engagement rings and chose to get the date of their engagement tattooed on their ring finger. To start their weekend celebration the couple
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rented out a Brooklyn Brownstone Air Bnb with Manhattan skyline views to house their friends in and get ready at with their adorable small pitt bull, Piper. Their perfect golden hour ceremony, as performed by their two friends has guests both keeling over in laughter and reaching for tissues. he two also blended their jewish and Korean heritage’s into their wedding and their ceremony. For Grace this was the Chupah and the stoping on the glass, and for Stacy the inclusion of norigae (which are traditional handmade tassels that usually are a part of the bride’s wedding dress), and weaving the traditional Korean symbol of ducks throughout the night. Supposedly, ducks are one of the only animals to mate for life. The couple even choice to incorporate the something blue traditions into their attire, such as Stacey’s floral hair pin and Grace’s suit. The couple even partnered with a local brewery to brew their own custom beer infused with yuzu and jasmine, for a special part of their celebration, paired with the venue’s killer pizza selection. Grace and Stacey even had an ice cream cake from one of the best creameries in Brooklyn, Ample Hills!
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PHOTOGRAPHY Brooklyn Wedding Photo, LOCATION FD Studios, PLANNER Yohaidy Pichardo at Wedding Style Chic, MAKEUP Melanie Sanniola, FLORIST Nicole Absher, CALLIGRAPHER Cenza Della Donna, HAIR STYLIST Sarah Ahn, RENTALS Broadway Party Rentals, MODELS Dewin + Natalie W @ Fenton Models, WARDROBE Schone Bride, MENS WARDROBE Alton Lane, SHOES Bella Belle, ACCESSORIES Hushed Commotion, BAKER Laura D’Abate at Pip n Bits
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Sweet Soiree
BROOKLYN WEDDING PHOTO FD PHOTO STUDIO LONG ISLAND CITY, NEW YORK
UNIQUE CLIENT GIFTS CUSTOM CARE PACKAGES CREATED IN A FEW CLICKS NO HASSLE. SHIPPED RIGHT TO YOUR CLIENTS. HANDWRITTEN NOTE.
B R A N D I NG AVA I L A B L E
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HAPPYBOXSTORE.COM
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@HAPPYBOXSTORE
PHOTOGRAPHY Siobhan Stanton, STYLIST Mandy Forlenza, PROPS Little Vintage Rentals, SHOES Bella Belle Shoes, RING BOX Amonie Ring Boxes, INVITATION SUITE Ink and Nibs, CERAMIC PLATES Jill Zeidler, CAKE Sweet Bite Cake Shop, STYLING MAT Kiss Books, FLOWERS Blooms by the Box
7 DETAILS FOR A PICTURE PERFECT WEDDING DAY When planning a large-scale event, it’s easy to forget that small details make the biggest impact. Scale back the grandiose ideas and focus on design elements and sentimental details that truly speak to you. Here are 7 items that will transform your vision into a photo worthy celebration that friends will talk about for years to come.
HEIRLOOM QUALITY RING BOX
Not only will a ring box add a lux element to photos for the photographer, but it will become an heirloom to pass on to your family’s next generation. Pro-tip: Use the ring box to hold the wedding bands before the ceremony.
SHOW STOPPING SHOES
Gone are the days of lifeless white wedding shoes! Select shoes that match your personal aesthetic. Be bold, outrageous, quirky or simply elegant; just be sure to be you (and comfortable). Pro-tip: Wear the shoes around your house regularly before the big day to break them in!
CHIC, UNDERSTATED CAKE
A simple wedding cake with greenery and flowers is more than enough for cake cutting photos and for the bridal party to eat. Purchasing a large sheet cake for the caterer to slice and serve guests is an easy way to save money. Protip: Don’t forget a beautiful cake stand to display the cake!
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CUSTOM, HAND LETTERED INVITATION SUITE
The save-the-date and invitation will set the tone for the wedding. Secure a designer to create a suite with custom illustrations and lettering that are meaningful to you and your fiancé. Whether it’s a hand drawn version of your wedding venue or your favorite flower in watercolor, make it personal. Protip: Take one design element from the invite and get personalized thank you cards printed.
ONE-OF-A-KIND DECOR PIECES
Nothing shows off your unique style and vision quite like one of a kind, vintage décor. Find a way to incorporate a vintage typewriter, books or some tarnished trays and you’ll be tagged in dozens of Instagram photos by friends loving your panache for design. Pro-tip: Vintage rental companies are an economical way to include décor without having to purchase it all outright.
COLORFUL CANDLES
A pop of colorful candles makes a big impact design wise. Select one accent color and use candles throughout the; near the cake, dinner tables, the bar, restrooms. Everything looks better by candlelight! Pro-tip: Dripless candles help keep the tables looking fresh and wax free.
PERSONALIZED BRIDE + GROOM PLACE SETTINGS
Select two plates specifically for you and your fiancé to use at the wedding. Perhaps it’s your grandmother’s china or handmade ceramics from a designer you love. It’ll show off your personality! Pro-tip: Keep the dishes for your children to use on their wedding day! MANDY FORLENZA STICOS PROVIDES CREATIVE DIRECTION AND STYLING AT VENUE AND BRAND PHOTO SHOOTS. SHE ALSO OWNS LITTLE VINTAGE RENTALS, A SPECIALTY TABLETOP AND DÉCOR RENTAL COMPANY SERVING NYC AND LOWER WESTCHESTER SINCE 2012.
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Rita & Joey
REAL WEDDING EVERLY STUDIOS BROOKLYN WINERY BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
PHOTOGRAPHER JOCELYN AT EVERLY STUDIOS WRITES... Rita and Joey’s ninth anniversary proved to be extra special, surrounded by family and friends at their Brooklyn Winery wedding. The couple had wanted a day that was both laid-back and stylish, two qualities that were reflective of the bride and groom themselves. (Trust: between the bride’s ethereal beaded heels, to the wedding date secretly embroidered underneath the groom’s jacket collar, this couple knows style.) The day was a balanced mix of ethereal romance and Brooklyn grit. A stroll down 11th St. in Williamsburg provided a boon of industrial backdrops, contrasting the vertical greenery and lush florals at Brooklyn Winery. Reclaimed wood winery accents and homey vintage dinner china just topped it off. Then the reception -- my personal favorite part of the night. A mix of salsa and hip- hop classics got everyone’s butt out of their seats, and you could just feel the good vibes emanating in the room. A good night? Yeah, I’d say so.
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PHOTOGRAPHER Everly Studios, VENUE Brooklyn Winery, FLORIST Rose Red & Lavender, DRESS Louvienne by Lovely Bride, BEAUTY Anny Chow, SHOES Bella Belle, TUX Knot Standard, CAKE Nine Cakes
Marissa & Alex
REAL WEDDING HALEIGH NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING AT THE STATE ROOM ALBANY, NEW YORK
PHOTOGRAPHER HALEIGH NICOLE WRITES... “One of my favorite things to do as the younger sister is snoop. In Marissa’s journal, she wrote that the best day ever was the day I was born. I’m so happy to be here celebrating her new best day.” Marissa’s sister, Linnea, exclaimed in her Maid of Honor toast. Alex and Marissa are officially married and it really was the best day at the State Room in Albany, New York. Marissa and Alex met when they worked together in customer service at a tech start up in Schenectady, New York. They both share a love for board games and checking out new restaurants and breweries. They push the other to try something new or put something in perspective when the other is stressed. Marissa and Alex had been great friends from the moment they met, but you never know how dating a friend can turn out. Thankfully, it was amazing for these two! Marissa and Alex had a pretty crazy summer last year, so they missed their usual anniversary date night. On September 21st, they decided to celebrate. As luck would have it Marissa would get a bad cold that week and was a bit feverish that night. Alex made a dinner of mac and cheese (both of our favorites as we found out over breakfast), and gave a couple belated anniversary gifts. The last was a 5 year daily question journal where he changed the daily question to “Will You Marry Me?” Of course Marissa said yes! Marissa did have an idea it was coming when her dad accidentally mentioned getting dinner with Alex which she didn’t know was happening. As a daddy’s girl, she could tell he was getting his blessing. We first met Marissa and Alex at our Virginia wedding last year, where Marissa was a bridesmaid. Nicole urged her to reach out to us and we couldn’t be more thankful! We formed a bond over brunch in April when the pair travelled down to Florida for their engagement session.
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Finally, the time arrived for us to head to New York for their Labor Day weekend wedding. Jack and I couldn’t have been more excited. With our new friend, Hurricane Dorian, lurking over our shoulders, we hopped on a plane to Albany. We were greeted with open arms on Marissa and Alex’s wedding day. Literally. Marissa’s mom, Mary, hugged me immediately and welcomed us to the new city. We felt so much like family within the first 20 seconds of walking through the getting ready room door! Everyone at the wedding was so sweet and made us outsiders feel at home. Our favorite part of this wedding day had to be the first look. Alex was driven to the New York State Capitol building in a 1940 Cadillac Limousine, provided by the venue. He sat down outside of the Capitol to read his card from Marissa and open his gift. Arriving in the Cadillac as he was reading his card, Marissa watched Alex trying hard to hold back his tears. Marissa was a little anxious stepping out of the vehicle, but so ready to be with her groom. Jack brought Alex to the front of the building to meet his bride-to-be. Walking down the sidewalk to her groom, Marissa tapped Alex on his shoulder. His face when he turned around was priceless. With his hand over his mouth, the tears started flowing as he looked in awe of his future bride. We can’t blame him, Marissa looked STUNNING. You could see the genuine love in their eyes and we were tearing up behind our cameras. Such a beautiful moment that we will never forget. There was no shortage of tears on this wedding day, and honestly, it’s our favorite part. Seeing the couple, family, and friends so emotional on the wedding day shows just how much they care. From the bridesmaids when they first saw Marissa in her gorgeous Willowby wedding dress, all the way to the toasts at the reception, the emotions on this wedding day ran high. It truly is amazing to experience.
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PHOTOGRAPHER Haleigh Nicole Photography, OFFICIANT Frank Brady, FAVORS AND GIFTS Sugar Oak Farms, CAKE DESIGNER Coccadotts Cake Shop, INVITATION DESIGNER Living Hue Designs, JEWELRY Northeastern Fine Jewlery, RING DESIGNERS James Allen; Jewelry by Johan, DJ Diamond Entertainment, FLORAL DESIGNER Flowers Forever by Linda, TUXEDO AND MENS ATTIRE Joseph Abboud; Mens Warehouse, BRIDESMAID DRESSES Azazie, DRESS DESIGNER Willowby by Watters, DRESS STORE Something Bleu Bridal, HAIR & MAKEUP Lipstick N Lashes, RECEPTION VENUE & CEREMONY LOCATION The State Room
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Glamour & Grace
DANIELLE DEFAYETTE CHEROKEE CREEK FARM DESTINATION: JONESBOROUGH, TN
PHOTOGRAPHER DANIELLE DEFAYETTE WRITES... I always get so excited about planning a styled shoot, especially when it’s at a new venue! The beautiful Cherokee Creek Farm in Jonesborough, Tennessee is such a lovely place for weddings. As soon as you walk into the charming farmhouse you feel as if you’ve been transported to another time! There are bright rooms with such high, spacious ceilings and a grand staircase which is excellent for portraits! It’s also a dream when you get to collaborate with such gracious vendors. I was so fortunate to have a truly talented team of wedding professionals work with me to create such gorgeous images. Annie’s Room provided two fabulous wedding gowns and elegant veils to adorn our “brides” with. I think I had the most fun getting to be part of our very own Say Yes To The Dress with Katie and Victoria! The stunning girls were given the true model treatment and pampered by Whitney and
Lauren. Whitney is a fantastic makeup artist who has spent years honing in on her craft and is such a fun person to have around on your wedding day! You can find Lauren doing her hair magic at J. Christene Salon in Bristol, TN. She is by far one of the most talented hairstylists I’ve come across and I adore her! The fabulous bridal bouquets were created by Chelsea at Blossom and Bloom Designs in Johnson City. She also was gracious enough to style some cute flat lays using the invitations from Ink & Sugar Co. too! One of my favorite things about styled shoots is having the ability to go in with so many fun ideas! I have played with film for personal things, but I’d never really incorporated it into weddings. That is definitely going to change! I shot so many rolls of film and fell in love with the results. I hope you love the images as much as I do!
PHOTOGRAPHER Danielle Defayette, LOCATION Cherokee Creek Farm, DRESSES Annies Room, HAIR STYLIST Lauren Fleenor, MAKEUP ARTIST Whitney Jones, FLORIST Blossom and Bloom, INVITATIONS Ink Sugar Co, MODELS Victoria Hall, Katie Mabe
CENZA DELLA DONNA, CALLIGRAPHER We chatted with New Jersey based calligrapher, Cenza Della Donna. Cenza’s versatile hand-lettering styles can suit brides of all tastes. Get to know Cenza a little better with Betrothed Magazine.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?
I fell into calligraphy/hand lettering my junior year of college, and have been consuming and practicing ever since!
.WHO IS YOUR IDEAL CLIENT? An open minded client who’s not afraid of being really honest about their style! Weddings are for you and your partner, who cares about tradition!
JI +JUSTIN
TOWARDS
THE
MOON
ZAINAB +ILYAS
SYDNEY
PHOTO
STUDIOS
WARM
UP
NARIA +MICHAEL
WARM
UP
LAB
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PHOTOGRAPHY
WILLIAMSBURG
AFSHEEN +SASHI
NATASHA +BRIAN
WILLIAMSBURG
ANGEL
SARAH +RYAN
LAB
WEDDINGS
KALVISTE
PHOTOGRAPHY
STUDIOS
PATRICK +GANESH
JACQUIE
LEW
PHOTOGRAPHY
ASPEN +DAN
AREUM +LESLEY
ELVIRA
PHOTO
WARM
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WEDDINGS
OVER A DECADE OF I DO'S Your Journey Begins Here www.mymoonnyc.com r e s t a u r a n t +
weddings@mymoonnyc.com
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HOW DO YOU DEFINE YOUR STYLE? Whimsically Modern
WHERE DO YOU FIND YOUR INSPIRATION?
As every designer says- everywhere. But my favorite places are record stores. Lettering on album covers are some of the most creative faces you’ll see!
WHAT’S SOMETHING UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR BRAND?
It’s very multi faceted . I’ve had the privilege to work on a lot of different projects in my small time out of college. From New York murals to small weddings to startup client logos, it’s all very different and personal.
WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF A WEDDING? I mean, the cake obviously.
GIVE US A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU!
I’m just an okay baker- but I LOVE frosting cakes. It’s my secret hidden talent.
WHERE CAN OUR READERS FIND YOU?
Keep up with me at @cenzadelladonna on Instagram, or at cenzadelladonna.com
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Bohemian Elegance
IVONA KAPLAN PHOTOGRAPHY ELOPEMENT AT AUDUBON GREENWICH, CONNECTICUT
This classically chic styled bridal photo shoot was set in Connecticut at The Barn at Audubon Greenwich which offers a rustic setting surrounded by charming nature. All of the details were hand picked and coordinated by extremely talented team of creatives. This very romantic Bohemian inspired wedding was creatively matched to the best florist in town Albelisa, and
professional event planner Stacey, wonderful cake, and vintage looking cookies, table settings one can only dream about... surrounded by beautiful sets of candles! I’m also a huge fan of our talented calligrapher. We were lucky enough to have a lovely and real couple Hallie & John! This is all something you could dream for your own wedding.
PHOTOGRAPHER Ivona Kaplan, LOCATION Audubon CT, EVENT PLANNER Whiskey and Wine Events, CATERING On the Marc Catered Events, FLORIST/STYLIST Maple Field Floral, TABLE SETTINGS AND CHAIR Durants Party Rentals, HAIR & MAKEUP Flavia Pedraza, Sara Julianna Beauty, Laura Moore Beauty, Cait Bozzone CBStudios, FABRIC & BROOCH VINTAGE BOUQUET Forever Brooch Bouquet MACRAME El Marie Macrame CALLIGRAPHY GC Lettering, CANDLES Lucid Candles, COOKIES Phaedra Cookies & Calligraphy, CAKE: Sweetbakes Cafe, BRIDAL GOWN AND VEIL A Little Something White, BRIDESMAID DRESSES Bella Bridesmaid Westport
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Josh & Emily TELL US ABOUT YOUR WEDDING!
I have dreamt of what my wedding was going to be like since I was a little girl. not just the look of the room or the dresses and the flowers but the feeling of not only myself but my guests were going to have. I wanted a warm romantic feeling. A lot of candles! The fireplaces in the main entry way and cocktail hour definitely helped me with that. I didn’t want things to match too much and I wanted it to all have this simple elegance about it. The church was most important to me leading up to this day, the first time I would see Josh; where we would exchange our vows, first kiss... that all was really going to set the tone I feel like leading into the evening at the reception. I knew I wanted a violinist and cello player to play music at the church and the cocktail hour since I played the violin myself thanks to my wonderful Dad. With our priest, Fr. Michael Najim, I knew the ceremony was going to be amazing.
LET’S TALK WEDDING DECOR.
A lot was DIY! I was a bride on a budget! I designed and made all my glass flower pedestals ! I also became a thrift store shopper... looking for different style glass votives, mirrors, etc. I also was able to you a sihlouette machine to help design some lettering for my signs, and card box. I used a local print shop in town to help create my wedding menu placards and seating chart. I created personal wooden stirrers for cocktail hour that had a gold C paint on the ends. Thanks to Etsy I was able to work with a great shop to create personalized napkins as well.I wanted gold/bonze pops color for the decorations to go with the candle light and beautiful ballroom where the reception was held . For having a December wedding, one thing I wanted to make sure of was that just because it was in the winter and just because it was right before Christmas , it was not Christmas themed. I also did not want to take away from the beauty of the rooms with the beautiful wooden ceilings, giant windows overlooking the lake, fireplaces and such.
REAL WEDDING ASTRAY PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING AT LAKE OF THE ISLES STONINGTON, CONNECTICUT
WHAT WERE THE FLORALS LIKE?
Flowers can be expensive. Working with Shelbie at Whole Foods was amazing. I was able to really show her ideas, styles and color palates I loved and she helped me come up with the recipes for the flowers. I knew I wanted this organic look for the bridesmaid bouquets. I wanted to make sure people looked at them and commented them before they commented their bouquet! I went with a mix of different eucalyptus tied with a grey silk ribbon. I wanted the florals to look ”wintery”, but stay simple and unstructured. For my bouquet we added some white garden roses, blue thistle which I thought paired great with the grey suits the men wore, some privet berries and white goosenecks to add some height , wide airy design. For the reception, I had two different height glass pedestals that incorporated the airy, unstructured organic look as well with some dark red black baccara roses too! I also loved curly willow, its like tree branches, but just added a nice feeling to the wintery romantic look I had in my head.For Josh we incorporated the privet berries and a beautiful anemone flower and the boys, just a dusty miller accented with berried and thistle.
HOW DID YOU PERSONALIZE YOUR DAY?
We love donuts, preferably Allies Donuts from Rhode Island. When planning the night I knew we had to incorporate a donut bar and it was a hit! We had ordered 18 dozen of white sprinkled allies donuts.. and trust me I still am not sick of them! We also had beautiful Italian pastries given to each table ranging from different cakes to eclairs!Favorite parts of the wedding? Gosh, that is so hard to decide. The food was fantastic, the service Lake of Isles was amazing.. but I don’t know, maybe the dancing? I love when everyone lets loose! At the end of the night Josh and I stepped away with our videographer to go outside and as I looked back at the dance floor I was like WOW! everyone is having a great time, everyone was dancing. I loved it!I just remember sitting at our sweetheart table , as the night began in the ballroom and Josh and I turned to each other and could not believe it was OUR wedding. IT WAS HAPPENING, IT WAS HERE! We did it, and I couldn’t have been happier to be surrounded that day by so many amazing, loving people.
HOW DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING DAY LOOKS?
It was only a few months after being engaged, maybe 3, when I decided I wanted to look for my dream dress. I chose Spark Bridal in Cranston, RI. I wanted to make sure when looking for my dream dress that I did not try to go with anything too trendy, I wanted classic. I also wanted to be able to be comfortable in my dress and be able to move on the dance floor. I remember trying on every type of dress... ballgowns, mermaid fit, strapless, halter.. you name it , I tried it on. I was open to trying on anything. As we got down to the last few dresses that day I think the woman helping me could see that I wasn’t too thrilled about any of the ones I tried on. As she unzipped the most beautiful strapless almond colored dress that I thought ”Hm, yeah I think maybe I could wear this?” she pulled out THE DRESS. Its was the Alana dress by Pronovias. She said ”I know on the hanger it doesn’t look much but just from this short amount of time talking to you, I feel like this is your dress”. Welp, she was right. I slipped into the dress... the accents/ details on the sleeve, the crepe material, low back with and extremely long train.. it was perfect. I walked out of the dressing room and I looked into the mirror as I stepped up on the pedestal in front of my mother, grandmother, two aunts and their daughters and said ”This is me”. I never felt so good in a dress before! Because of the simplicity of the dress I knew I wanted the most amazing veil. During bridal week, Laura from Spark Bridal picked the most beautiful veil for me to wear. It was beaded and had these flower appliqués on it, which complemented the details on the sleeves of my dress. A cathedral veil, it was perfect. I loved my look. For Josh, he loves that slim fit look. He’s extremely handsome and stylish and he knew exactly what he wanted. A beautiful Italian grey suit, slim fit.. that he paired with a black velvet tie! I remember seeing him all dressed up as I walked down the isle and was like, ”woah, I’m marrying him!?” so handsome!
WHAT WAS THE MOST SPECIAL MOMENT OF THE DAY?
The church. Oh boy, I was so nervous. I just wanted to see Josh. I knew once I saw him all my nerves would go away.. and thats exactly what happened. as the church doors opened and I saw him at the end of the isle.. a smile grew from cheek to cheek. ”Thats my husband, my best friend”. I was so proud to be marrying Josh that day in such a beautiful catholic ceremony.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER COUPLES?
Be true to yourself. Your wedding reflects you and who you and your spouse are! The most important things to me was to have great food, awesome drinks, and AMAZING music. Have fun! You have one time to experience this all try to soak it all up! You may argue time to time while planning but know that this is YOU AND YOUR Spouses day.One of the best tips I received from previous brides was to at some point in the night, take a step back with you spouse.... alone.. away from everyone and just take it all in. Look at all your hard work, the happy faces, listen to the laughter, the music, everything. This will be like your snapshot of your wedding in your mind that will last forever.
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PHOTOGRAPHER Astray Photography, VIDEO Wedding Alchemy Studios, VENUE Lake of the Isles, DJ DJ Don Dada, FLORIST Whole Foods, BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES Birdy Grey, DRESS Pronovias
Soulmates photographing soulmates. We’re New York wedding photographers that want to see you at your happiest. Every love story is unique, and we want to make sure yours is captured naturally.
BROOKLYNWEDDINGPHOTO.COM @BROOKLYNWEDDINGPHOTO
PHOTOGRAPHY Brooklyn Wedding Photo, PLANNER Latisha @ Bluu Ribbon Weddings, VENUE MyMoon, RENTALS Little Vintage Rentals, MODEL Olivia @ Fenton Models, CAKE Chetney’s Cakes, FLORIST A Petal to Peddle, LINENS Bayith, DRESSES Loulette Bride, MAKEUP Melanie Sanniola, HAIR Michelle D NYC for Oribe, ACCESSORIES Hushed Commotion
GET PERSONAL WITH YOUR WEDDING STYLING Planning your wedding is the perfect opportunity to show off your creative side. Whether it’s with DIY, styling, florals or your venue, use this opportunity to put your taste on display.
GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR DRESS
Make a statement with your wedding dress. Planning your wedding is the perfect opportunity to stray from traditional gowns and show your creative side. Get creative with patterns, cuts, fabrics, and colors. You have tons of opportunity to get creative with your dress and let your impeccable taste shine through.
STAND OUT WITH HAIR AND MAKEUP
Collaborate with your hair stylist and makeup artist to create a look that screams you. Yes, you want to look incredible on your wedding day, but you also want to look like yourself. Sometimes brides face the issue of looking back at their wedding photos and thinking “that doesn’t look like me at all!” That’s why a hair and makeup trial is so important. It gives you time to put in research, then talk to and collaborate with your hair and makeup artists. Share your wedding color palette with them, show them your pinterest boards, and ask them for their professional opinions.
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EXPRESS YOURSELF WITH TABLE STYLING
You can take your table styling in so many different directions. Seriously, search “wedding table setting” on Pinterest and marvel. Choose elements of your table that speak to you as a couple. Maybe there are specific trinkets or additions that are special to you as a couple.
SAY IT WITH FLOWERS
Collaborate with your florist to bring out your love story through flowers. Let them know any special flowers to you two as a couple, and also give your florist your color palette to work with. Flowers can be a major way to express yourselves on your wedding day. Are you a big waterfall bouquet type, or a tight bunch? Bring out your personalities in your floral decor.
ACCESSORIZE, ACCESSORIZE, ACCESSORIZE
Accessories can be a subtle and sweet way to personalize your wedding details. Perhaps there’s a necklace or watch that is sentimental to you or your partner, or maybe a set of earrings. Don’t forget to accessorize your wedding look with accessories that have meaning to you.
REMEMBER WHY YOU’RE DOING THIS
At the end of the day, planning a wedding is about bringing you and your partner together. It’s okay to take breathers from your planning process and ground yourselves. The most important personal touches on your wedding day are those moments you share with your partner - your first look, your vows, your first dance. Remember why you’re there. MEGAN BREUKELMAN IS A PHOTOGRAPHER AND EDITOR BASED IN BROOKLYN, NY. SHE CAPTURES WEDDINGS WITH HER HUSBAND, KENNETH, SERVING THE GREATER NEW YORK CITY AREA AND NEW JERSEY. SHE ALSO RUNS BETROTHED MAGAZINE.
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SAM SULLIVAN, NEW YORK PHOTOGRAPHER We spoke to New York wedding photographer, Sam Sullivan. Creating moody, romantic imagery through New York and the Hudson Valley, Sam’s work stopped us in our tracks (and our feeds!) and we had to get to know who was behind the work a little better.
HOW DID YOU START ON YOUR PATH?
I don’t have one of those stories about how I took photography classes in high school or college, or I studied graphic design. I work for an insurance company and I live a pretty modest life. My story started in 2018, while my husband and I while planned our wedding (should I say just i) haha. People would often ask me if I’m stressed and how I’m holding up. The answer was always “no, I’m not stressed at all”. In fact, the answer was always “are you kidding me?! I love this!.” when our wedding was over, I knew I needed to find a way to immerse myself in this creative environment. I reached out to my own wedding 60
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photographer, Dawn Honsky, for advice and she asked me to tag along with her whenever I wanted. My husband had a Nikon d3400 sitting on a shelf collecting dust. So I picked that up and literally took photos of anyone that would let me! Eventually, I started to book clients for things like maternity and holiday cards and before you know it, I booked my first wedding at Gather Green! What a dream. It was then, meeting Jackie and also working with vendors like tammy from Hudson Valley vintage rentals, that I finally felt part of this. Part of this wonderful community of creatives that push one another towards success and seeing their dreams come alive. I feel so incredibly blessed, honestly. If you would have asked me two years ago, if this would be in the stars for me, I would have laughed and called you crazy. But I’ve learned that nothing is crazy if it serves you. No one can ever say to me that I didn’t give it my all. Now, this version of me would say to the version of me two years ago, you are crazy if you don’t try.
HOW DO YOU DEFINE YOUR STYLE?
I would say my style is a bit moody, and vintage. I am definitely not the light and airy photographer. I knew then when choosing my own wedding photography. I love intimate, I love raw and I love a kind of grungy, if you will, aesthetic.
WHO IS YOUR IDEAL CLIENT?
Ah, my idea client. I know this term and it kind of throws me off, because I feel like it can be a little discriminatory. Let me start by saying this, as far as looks, I don’t care if you are tall, short, skinny, fat, blue or green. My ideal client serves me with love, with compassion and with an open heart... my ideal client is someone I talk to on the phone, and store their number bc we’re now friends. My ideal client texts me funny memes about wedding planning and says things like yasssssss when they see a photo of mine. They become my friend. I’m part of their story, but they are so incredibly part of mine. Part of MY journey. My ideal client feels like home.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF A WEDDING?
My favorite part of a wedding is always the first look. Whether it be planned ahead of the ceremony, or during. The first time the bride and groom sees each other will always make me ugly-almost-cry-holding-back-a-tear-behind my camera.
WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?
I find that the more I look at things like Instagram, the more I question myself and my skills. So I’ve tried to limit that for my own mental health. I try to keep things fresh for my own portfolio in doing things I haven’t done before, which at this point in my career, are plentiful.
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WHAT IS SOMETHING UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR BRAND?
I think I am what is unique about my brand. It’s easy to take good photos (kinda) I truly believe that when a couple talks to me for the first time, I- Sam Sullivan- am the driving force behind their decision to sign a contract. I’ve had couples talk to me, and then I assume talk to a few other photographers, and come back to me saying they just “clicked” with me... and I totally know the feeling. I cuss, I sometimes have no filter and I may accidentally get off the phone and say love you, byeeeee! I’m the kind of photographer that is literally my couple’s cheerleader on their wedding day, engagement photos day and throughout their planning process. I can’t help it. And the clients that book me likely did so because of how I made them feel.
GIVE US A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU!
I’m the kind of person that is always happy. I know that sounds like a cliché and total BS. But I’m just not wired for grudges. My dad used to make fun of me saying I had a goldfish brain because I couldn’t stay mad at someone, and its so true! My father passed away in 2016, but he taught me that life is wayyyyy too short and I honestly just don’t have time for unhappy and unhealthy people. Don’t get me wrong, I get pissed off at things and I’m not a pushover, but I like to think that I sort of dance to my own beat. Everyone in my life has confirmed this theory and some people love me for it and some people not so much. It’s who I am and its not changing ya’ll are stuck with me!
WHERE CAN READERS KEEP UP WITH YOU?
You can keep up with me at samsullivanphotograhy.com and @samsullivanphotograhy on Instagram.
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Keith & Michael
REAL WEDDING EVERLY STUDIOS MANHATTAN MARRIAGE BUREAU NEW YORK, NEW YORK
PHOTOGRAPHER JOCELYN AT EVERLY STUDIOS WRITES... When these two Londoners decided to elope, there was nowhere to go but their favorite city during their favorite time of the year: New York City at Christmastime. Michael and Keith decided to keep it simple, saying their “I do”s at the courthouse. However, the pair celebrated afterward by heading to the Brooklyn waterfront, sipping champagne before noon, traipsing amongst industrial warehouses and cobblestone streets, and enjoying the view from an empty rooftop.
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PHOTOGRAPHER Everly Studios, SUITS Ted Baker, FLORIST Columbia Midtown Florist, LOCATION Manhattan Marriage Bureau
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LOCATION Egg Studios NYC, PHOTOGRAPHERS Brooklyn Wedding Photo, MODELS Laura Uniwersal + Lucy Liu @ Skorpion, WARDROBE Loulette Bride, MAKEUP Christina Delfino, HAIR STYLIST Michelle D NYC for Oribe, FLORIST Uprooted Flower Truck, ACCESSORIES Hushed Commotion, SHOES Bella Belle
STYLED SHOOT
Delicate Beauty
BROOKLYN WEDDING PHOTO EGG STUDIOS NYC BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
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SUBMIT TO BETROTHED We’re accepting submissions for our 2020 calendar year! To be considered, you must be a wedding professional with the rights or permissions to the photos you are submitting. We are accepting content from the New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania areas. Love is love - we are proud to accept submissions from all types of marital celebrations. Betrothed is about the art of a New York wedding – for all.
FIND BETROTHED
Instagram @betrothedmagazine Facebook /betrothedmagazine betrothedmagazine.com
SUBMISSIONS
info@betrothedmagazine.com Find us on Two Bright Lights
This publication is copyright © Brooklyn Wedding Photo LLC (2020). Do not copy or redistribute without permission. All content is copyright © to respsective authors. Published January 2020. Edited by Megan Breukelman. Published by Brooklyn Wedding Photo LLC.
THE ART (AND HE ART) OF A NEW YORK WEDDING B E T R OT H E D M AGA Z I N E .C O M
