The wedding and reception were held at Jessica’s parents house.  They had set up the chairs and her mum had worked all summer cultivating the plants and flowers to add to the aesthetics.  It was gorgeous.  The bridal party came out of the house and down the aisle but you couldn’t really see them until they were coming straight up towards the arbor.

And thats when Tim saw Jess, and started to well up with tears.  Which in turn caused me to well up with tears.

I think there were a lot of tears going around <3

See, Gorgeous!

Married, and quite pleased with themselves about it too.  Rightfully so.

And then they all danced down the aisle.  They all danced all night — but more on that later!

First it was time for some fun formals.

This crew makes flying look easy!

“ooo ooo ooo —  can we do a pyramid?”… “I don’t know, can you?”   I guess the answer is yes!

Then it was just the 3 of us.

These two are such a beautiful fit.

I loved the centerpieces, and that I could make their wedding date out of their table numbers

These two were toasted and roasted by their family with the utmost love and regard.

Just the simple act of holding hands and being in the moment with each other *sigh*

They infused themselves into ever detail and ever aspect of the wedding.  These film strip time line photos are too cute.

I love it when the couple makes their own toast.  Jess & Tim eloquently thanked everyone who had been with them through the journey that brought them to their wedding day.

this IS what love looks like.

Love and a few dance lessons

And then Jess & her dad had a lovely slow father daughter dance

That broke into some boogie woogie and brought the crowd to their feet!

I think Dad was relieved when it was over

Then Tim & his mother shared a lovely dance

I l.o.v.e. this photo

Remember what I said about the dancing?  This bunch danced all.night.long and they busted some serious moves

This was definitely a family affair!

When a sweet innocent cake feeding…

goes awry.…

Jess threatens revenge

So her dad steps in to keep Tim from being lonely

and then Jess steps in and Tim gets what’s coming to him!

She did try to run away, but he caught her and they made up

Just in time for the first lap dance/garter removal I’ve been witness to.

Too. freaking. funny.

A good old fashioned dollar dance

Soon after that it was the end of my time and they were stilllllllllllllllllll dancing!

And a good time was had by all.  Thank you so much for including me in that.

~melissakoren

I had been searching for a photographer for a few weeks when a neighbor referred us to Melissa. Being a “do-it yourself” bride, I was given a lot of advice on what I should pay, what I should look for, does she use a good digital camera…etc, etc. (I’m sure you get the picture-no pun intended.) My (now) husband and I met with her and immediately felt comfortable. She is fun and witty and knowledgeable about her field. Not to mention her prices are great if you’re on a budget like we were. Melissa made us WANT to get our pictures taken by her. We planned some engagement photos and had a really good time with her as we walked around. What I liked best about the session was that she was open for anything and took into account that they were OUR pictures. She wanted to make them mean something. And she did. We used them around our reception. On the day of our wedding though, she ROCKED, for lack of a better word. Not only did she take amazing pictures of everything and anything, she helped pin boutonnieres on the groomsmen and fathers, she preformed emergency surgery on my bustle when it kept dragging, and she made us laugh the whole time. Melissa is truly a great photographer because she knows the ins and outs of her trade and recognizes the importance of laughter and simplicity on a day you’ll remember for the rest of your life. We’ll be using her for years and years to come. We highly recommend her!  ~Jess and Tim

As I looked around their apartment I noticed this photo on the bookcase near the door.  What an amazing way to propose!

A few detail shots:

Their wedding was very 20’s themed and I loved the old windows and the trunk from her childhood that echoed the theme so well.

Finally she arrived, and the wait was well worth it — she looked stunning!

Then we hurried off to Fort Foster in Kittery, ME to meet Josh and commence their ocean side ceremony.  How dapper everyone looks!

Sam & her dad make their way down the path to meet up with Josh.

When they arrived at the gate it was opened and Sam & Josh were given their blessing by her father.

And they’re married!

Because of the time crunch in the beginning we did the formals in three parts, some quick shots of the great looking bridal party and some family before dinner, a few family after dinner, and then and adventure with Sam & Josh after the reception was over.

I said ok guys, Jump!  You’ve got to love her conviction though!

On the left is right after the ceremony, on the right is after the reception.  All the different nooks and crannies and trees made for great lighting all day!

It was really awesome to have a live band at this outdoor venue!

Sam’s gram (I think I’m remembering that correctly) made this amazing turretted castle cake!

And this cake topper couldn’t have been any more representative of how they interact with each other!

Well… except maybe when she throws cake at him

But here they are back at their first dance, so in love!

The pavilion at Fort Foster is a GREAT place for an event!

A dance with her daddy…

and an ever watchful mum.

Then some good ol’ letting loose!

A quick garter and bouquet toss off the balcony…

And the reception was done!  As I’d mentioned earlier I took this time to wander around the grounds with Sam & Josh and ensure that they had some time for photos of the two of them.  The more we explored, the more I was so thankful for our “happy accident” of not being able to take them right after the ceremony!

Samantha is exquisite and fearless.  Two qualities you don’t always find in the same place at the same time, but Josh certainly has hit the jackpot.

As much as I loved them together in the tree, when I asked Josh if he would mind stepping aside for a moment Sam positioned herself a big taller and left me with the most amazing shots!

And so it goes, the -

Wedding of Sam & Josh.

Thank you both for finding me and inviting me along for a glimpse of your lives.

~melissakoren

And Sam just posted a lovely review on weddingwire — thanks for taking the time Sam! Hope you’re well!

Melissa was nothing short of AMAZING! Even though I was running late on the day of the wedding, she had already photographed my dress and many other things before I got there to save time. She helped me calm down and kept her cool despite dealing with a very cranky and overtired bride (me). She even helped put on the groomsmen’s boutonnieres when we got to the venue. In our opinion (my husband and I), the best part and most fun part of the whole wedding was when she took us away to do our photos together.
Despite all this, the photos are incredible! Every time I look back at the pictures from the wedding, I see something new and think, “wow,” it’s like she was in ten places at the same time. I highly suggest Melissa to photograph your wedding.

I want that pebble rug.

Lisa’s mom made sure the planter boxes coordinated with the wedding, that’s advance planning!

I love the green & pink!

The ceremony took place at All Saints Parish Church in Haverhill, MA

And it was a tremendous church!  The sweet and precocious flower girl looked so wee bitty!

But Doug’s smile filled the church a thousand times over.

A smile precipitated by the stunning woman coming down the aisle to be his wife.

That’s right Lisa, make sure it gets all the way on!

no joke — tremendous!

Married & celebrating!

Then it was on to DiBurro’s Function Facility for a par-teh!

Green, or pink?!

Doug’s brother was full of expressions.

Speeches!

Hello bridal party!

best.speech.ever

…that must have been some good cake!

This is one of my favorite wedding games.  We played it at our wedding and it’s always a great time.

A family affair!

So good, so good, so good!

I love to see what my clients do with their photos

Oompah!

Followed by showers of money! Hoorah!

My favorite photos from the night!

Pink is my favorite color.…

Break it down. (I think from now on I shall only blog with song lyrics)

Can’t touch this.

The right stuff.

We are the champions..?

Ok ok enough of that.. bouquet toss!

..and garter. Interesting approach Doug…

I don’t always recommend to my clients that I stay the whole wedding.  I truly enjoy the receptions but sometimes if you’re looking to cut costs you can easily do with out a professional photographer for the last few hours of your reception.  However, when I am asked to stay I’m always overwhelmed by the last dance circle.  And this was a big one!

Lisa & Doug — thank you so much for inviting me to your beautiful wedding.  May you always remember the happiness you were surrounded with!

~MelissaKoren

I don’t have enough words to describe how happy I am with my wedding photos. Melissa did an AMAZING job. I was so suprised when I saw them. She was extremely unintrusive — I don’t even remember seeing her too much (although, it WAS a very overwhelming day), but she always seemed to pop out of nowhere whenever someone stepped on my bustle (which happened a LOT) to help fix it. She was so helpful before and during the wedding, through everything. When we had first met with photographers, we met with one that I loved her pictures, but she had absolutely no personality, and didn’t say boo when we met with her, and was kind of pricey to be able to get everything that we wanted. The second was much more in our budget, but came off to me like a used car salesman, and the pictures weren’t very good at all. (Why have an affordable all-inclusive package when the pictures look like crap?)…But Melissa was JUUUST right. She is very friendly and personable, and her pictures are amazing for a great price. We just got our pictures two days ago, and I am already trying to choose some for our album, and it is too hard when I love them all! I would HIGHLY recommend Melissa for yor wedding, and I think we will be calling her for pictures when we start our family! ~Lisa

]]> http://melissakoren.com/2011/01/08/lisa-doug-married-08-21-10/feed/ 0 http://melissakoren.com/2011/01/04/jenn-jason-married-part-ii-08-14-10/ http://melissakoren.com/2011/01/04/jenn-jason-married-part-ii-08-14-10/#comments Tue, 04 Jan 2011 16:28:47 +0000 melissakoren http://melissakoren.com/?p=3060 After a fantastic part I it was on to part II!

Do the bustle! doot da doot da doot doot doot doo da doot doot doot da doot.   And the bustle they did!

Embracing the rustic atmosphere at the  Stone Mountain Arts Center Jenn & Jason’s decor was birdhouse chic.  Such a great theme!

So many things I love about this photo!

The crew…

Who set up this photo with out them knowing what they were doing.  With friends like these…

I love the way he kisses her head.

Honestly I somehow skimmed over this when I was editing but when I went back for blog posting I fell in total love with it.

He effortlessly holds her bouquet in one hand and whisks her off the carriage safe in his arms and she straightens his boutonniere she’s mussed in the getting down.

Seamlessly from ceremony to rececption

So much emotion and interaction in this one shot.

I can’t help but think of the Last Supper when I see this.  Only, there’s a baby grand piano and, it’s the first supper!

They make me swoon.  It’s the only word to describe it.

Jenn & Jason’s wedding was definitely a family affair.  So many cute little ones about

And Jason’s dog was in attendance the whole time and so loved and well behaved!

That’s either a pinky promise or a shake of the fist if you dare to throw frosting at me…

Gentle & romantic.  Those two words pretty much sum up the whole event!

Loving parents

Jenn’s brother busted some serious moves on the dance floor all night.  Drew a crowd he did.

Swanky & Sassy.  Two words I’d absolutely use to describe them as a couple.

Well, I guess you can’t ALWAYS be gentle & romantic.

But that’s what is at the core of these two and where they always come back to.

Jenn & Jason — thank you for finding me and adopting me for the day.  I was honored to be part of your adventure and wish you all the luck in the future!

~MelissaKoren

I arrived at the Oxford House Inn a few minutes before Jenn & her crew got back from the hair salon looking divine.

As they had a few bites to eat I poked around in their beautiful suite and found details and gorgeousness galore!

LOVE the butons, love the lines!

Do not try this at home! She was protecting her hair, not trying to get out of the wedding

I love the fascinator!

Oh Jenn!

A few quick shots (individually) of the bride and groom on the stunning grounds at the Oxford House.

No, seriously picture perfect!

Two more very important details of the wedding.

This picture cracks me up.  Every time I look at it I think that Jason is asking the officiant wth is taking Jenn so long! (She wasn’t late, its just what it looks like!)

What Jason didn’t know was that that little detail from before, was his dog, who Jenn orchestrated as a surprise to walk down the aisle and be a part of the ceremony.  She said he would cry and sure enough <3

Trying to recompose himself he looked up as Jenn started coming down the aisle

And then he was beyond overwhelmed

The ceremony & reception were held at the Stone Mountain Arts Center a stunning and unique venue in Brownfield, ME

Happiness is!

Married!

So many great moments from this day I think I need to make this a two part party!

~til tomorrow

That’s right, 1pm on a Tuesday.  I don’t get many calls for Tuesday weddings.  I love them!

Michele & Stan had been together for 26 years before they decided to do the “legal thing”.  They had the opportunity to be the first couple married in the newly built Townsend, MA meeting hall — a beautiful space!

Michele’s 3 granddaughter’s danced down the aisle to “Girls just want to have fun” and did they ever!

Michele was escorted down the aisle by her 10 year old grandson.

So filled with emotions!

Michele’s younger grandson waiting to make his grand entrance with their rings. 

… It’s not always exciting being the flower girl!

Look at all those grandkids!  What a great family!!

Stan is quite the character but Michele doesn’t seem to mind.

I love this photo.  They really just wanted a quick shot or two after the ceremony and it was so hot outside they opted to stay in.  This simple piece of art adorned the wall in the lobby and it all just fell into place.

Then it was time to celebrate!

SOoooooo cute letting the kids take a taste of the cake before it was cut into!

Then sweet Stan retreated and Michele got nailed good with her piece of cake!

Stan and his mother <3

Two of their beautiful granddaughters

Edible arrangements for everyone! What a great centerpiece idea!

The bouquet toss — no one was injured in the catching of this bouquet — although it certainly looks like someone is about to get creamed!

The kids requested a special song for their parents to dance to — I love how their looking on.

The last dance of the evening was “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy” and Michele came in with her cowboy hat passing out 100 dollar (fake) bills and two stepping all across the floor while Stan watched his past, present and future.

What a great way to spend a Tuesday afternoon!  Thank you Michele & Stan for inviting me to capture your long awaited day.

~melissakoren

Hi Melissa,

Took a while to go through all those pictures! Wow! Doesn’t look like you missed anything.
Thanks so much for all your skill and attentiveness. We are glad we chose you.

Then it was off to the Player’s Ring building via trolley for their outdoor seaside ceremony.

Ali & her mom walked right off the trolley and down the aisle to meet a very handsome Andrew.  I think he looks a lot a lot like Peter Krause (six feet under & parenthood) and very handsomely awaits his bride to be.

Such and emotional time for the moms!  Each was presented with a white rose and a hug in the middle of the ceremony.  I really like that component.

With this ring I thee wed you may kiss the bride!

And they lived happily ever after!

Group shot!

Another beautiful afternoon in Portsmouth.

The only word to describe this kind of light is Yummy.     P.S. if you’ve not been over to Mombo yet (the old Strawbery Banke gift shop and owner of this door frame) you MUST go.  Another one of my couples bar tend there and the food is phenomenal.  Cozy and romantic!

Two of my most favorite photos, made infinitely better by the gorgeous bouquet created by Betsy @ the Flower Kiosk.  Her work is unique and stunning every time.  She was the florist for my wedding and as both a bride and vendor, she’s a treat to work with .

Ali you’re stunning, the dress is so spectacularly tailored to you and Andrey, your suit was the perfect complement to your duo. (photo on the right by Rob)

The Portsmouth Trolley was a great touch and really helpful in providing transportation for the guests.  They even put up a “just married” plaque for the two!

You may have caught a glimpse of the (Photo by Rob) caption in this post.  I very infrequently have a second shooter or assistant but it seems that having a day off from Prescott Park was not a good plan — in a freak accident I stepped backwards off a curb and pulled a bajillion tendons in the top of my foot.  The show must go on! But in the off chance I’d fallen and couldn’t get up and I asked Rob to come along and assist me with my bag & balance & since he was taking a photography class I tossed him a camera and sent him running for the long shots too.  He was a tremendous help (though I didn’t fall down once!) and captured some of my injured ninja skills!

They were lovely enough to leave me a wedding wire review:

If you are thinking of asking Melissa to take your wedding photos, do so immediately! You will not find a more talented and artistic photographer to illuminate your day. You will get so much more than pictures because this is not just a job to her, it is her passion. The photographs are works of art, and you get to be in them.

Not only is Melissa an amazing artist, but she is exceedingly professional. She corresponds with you often to make sure she captures exactly what you envision. Melissa is just wonderful to work with and you will feel so happy and lucky to get her. –Ali and Andrew 7/2/2010

Ali & Andrew, I wish you the best of luck in all you do! Thank you for the amazing review and for asking me to be your wedding photographer!

~melissakoren

]]> http://melissakoren.com/2010/12/29/ali-andrew-married/feed/ 0 http://melissakoren.com/2010/12/17/liz-jon-married-06-05-10/ http://melissakoren.com/2010/12/17/liz-jon-married-06-05-10/#comments Fri, 17 Dec 2010 14:14:39 +0000 melissakoren http://melissakoren.com/?p=2816 This post is heavy on photos. And heavy on love. And heavy on absofudginglutely awesome.

After everything we’d been through already including engagement photos last August, I knew that this Plymouth fabulousness extravaganza was going to be a blast.  Liz called me from the house they’d rented where I’d be staying the night and said it was fabulous.  When I got there I couldn’t agree more!

Each level held different wonders and nooks & crannies.  Like the one I found for the stunning dress.

Liz arrived home from the salon with some time to relax and so I headed over to the boys at the motel down the street.

Jon is demonstrating his best GQ shoe tying.  Meanwhile the ring bearer looks so nervous.  And his little white socks melt my heart!

Marylou’s Coffee is a staple but I’m not sure what Jon and his groomsman is doing.

A pep talk before the walk.

The things I learn — in the cup is a ‘manmosa’ none of those girly mimosas!

Then I headed back to the house to catch Liz kicking the stunning up a notch!

Getting in the dress was a multi person job —  There are so many people trying to get Liz in that dress you can’t even see Liz!

Here she comes, pinky first!

Dear Santa, for Christmas I could use a thesaurus because Liz is so gorgeous she renders my vocabulary useless!

Then  it was up the street to the church!

These two are so emotive they tell their own story <3

The get away vehicle!

And get away we did — to the same home where we’d gone for their engagement photos.  What a gorgeous crew!

History repeating itself. <3

The simple but jaw dropping hot pink hydrangea accented the wedding perfectly.

And one with camper, a little more conspicuously, but we couldn’t leave that memory out too!

Then we headed down to the beach (with out 300 stairs thank goodness)

Finally it was time to party!  More hot pink & sea theme.

Man & Wife! Booya! (really? booya? ok…)

The photo on the right makes me feel peaceful; and I’m just a bystander!

Speeches.

I can’t remember what happened but going through the photos it looks like Jon fed Liz and Liz said seeya so Jon had to feed himself too.…

But at least they kissed and made up!

Parent dances

And there goes Jon again — the ladies man for all ages.  On the left was probably the biggest hubub of the night.  After the parent dances Jon went over and got Evie, the woman who owns that sweet cottage, and gracefully glided with her across the dance floor.  We were all in tears.  Heck, I’m in tears again just typing about it!  Chivalry is not dead my dears, not dead at all.

I’m not sure how Liz has Mark’s tie around her waist and not around his neck, but she does!  And once the walk was over, the ring bearer perked right up and tried to compete for my job!

If I had to guess they’re singing Mazel tov!

But I’m pretty sure they’re not doing the hora…

Sorry Liz, I love you so much, I had to post this photo — so much concentration for the bouquet toss!

All this preparation…

And so little action.  And also? Jon? Did no one teach you the behind the head not looking technique!?

I call this one, Joe and the legs that go on forever.

What a spectacular wedding, thank you Liz & Jon (and Kate & Marcus and Melissa & Lonnie and Jenn & Hammy too) for making me a part of this wonder!

The wedding ended early evening and we went back to the cottage, gathered up a few things and headed down .. 150? steps to a beach bonfire after party.  Way make the most of your day!

I can’t wait to see what’s next from these two

~MelissaKoren

I arrived at the inn and met Nivea and her family in the bridal room.  You can tell how much her niece adores her, and those flowers are stunning!

The room we were in looks out over the gazebo area where the small and intimate wedding was being set up and the rest of the family was arriving.  Nivea was so content as she snuck a peak of what was going on outside.

Her soon to be husband, Matt, greeting his nieces and grandmother; the main reason that they’d moved up their civil ceremony.   Sadly, she was not going to be able to travel to (and my memory fails me but I want to say Guatemala) for their planned nuptials that happened in November.

Then it was time.  Matt’s smile is about to bust right off of his face <3

Their niece serenaded them with a gorgeous piece of music.

Often times the smaller the gathering, the more heightened the emotion — this was very true of this event.

Married!

This girl was a spit fire I tell you.  She had me laughing the whole time.

Matt & Nivea snuck inside for some quiet time and when I when to find them I saw them sharing a few last moments with the officiant.

Then it was back outside for some more love and photos

And while I do love the grounds at the Inn, I’m even more in love with the glowing staircase to the bar.  I remember the first time I went to eat there after it reopened thinking how awesome it would be to take a photo on those steps! check + mark!

The Inn has a small function room perfect for these intimate affairs.  And the simple yet romantic decorations were the perfect touch.

Hooray!

Matt & Nivea, thank you SO much for finding me on the interwebs and letting me share in a few brief moments of your history.  I truly enjoyed being a part of your day and hope your November celebrations were equally as amazing!

~MelissaKoren

Hi Melissa,  The pictures are amazing! I haven’t finished going through them yet, but I love them so far! Thank you so much for being part of our special day! You captured the feeling I wanted for the ceremony — small, intimate, romantic without being fussy — perfectly!

]]> http://melissakoren.com/2010/12/14/nivea-matt-05-22-10/feed/ 0 http://melissakoren.com/2010/11/04/sarah-jason-05-08-10/ http://melissakoren.com/2010/11/04/sarah-jason-05-08-10/#comments Thu, 04 Nov 2010 18:33:35 +0000 melissakoren http://melissakoren.com/?p=2685 Sarah & Jason’s wedding was everything a wedding should be.  Filled with love, support, emotion and well.. pretty things!

The afternoon started at her parent’s beautiful home in New Castle, NH for a few final touches before it was off to the church.

It was not fooling around raining, but that didn’t stop Sarah smiling from ear to ear!

New Castle Congregational is about as quaint New England as it comes.  Still proudly displaying the doors on the pews so you had to close yourself in.. I bet that was early child care.

I’m not sure who’s smile was bigger, Sarah’s or Jason’s!  I think he loves her more than a little bit

Sarah’s brother gave a very emotional dedication during the ceremony, there was barely a dry eye in the house.  However, note the boys.. Jason’s sons.. and their precarious location next to the grate on the ground.  Now remember that.

And the officiant asks, may I please have the rings.  And his oldest son, being the Best Man, goes to fulfill his task.

And then it slips through his fingers.  You could feel the whole church catch its’ breath… and then exhale in laughter when it hit the carpet and was quickly recovered with out having to call in an HVAC team!

After that it was smooth sailing through the “I Do’s” and a quick escape to the car to head off for portraits.

Sarah has her heart set on taking photos at Great Island Common and thankfully Mother Nature obliged and the rain cleared as the ceremony ended.

After a few quick shots it was back to the Portsmouth Country Club for some dry land and good times.  I <3 a good funny face photo!

l.o.v.e.i.t.!

I also loved all the pretty simplicity with the delicate pink tulips.  So very spring!

Jason gave a warm welcome speech that again, had everyone emotional, and he looks very proud of himself for it too.

I’ve never been swarmed by so many children when it was time to cut the cake.  It was a riot!  In the lower picture you can see their sons’ heads peeking up wondering when THEY were going to get to eat the cake too.

One of the things I loved so much about this wedding is how ‘present’ every one was.  They were fabulous wedding goers — supporting each other and paying attention.  Crowding around the dance floor but still being respectful of the awesomeness that was going on.  Sarah’s & her dad got her mom quite welled up.  Everyone just gathered round and hugged her.

When Jason danced with his mum, his younger son climbed up on his new step-mums lap to watch.  Boys at weddings always tug at MY heart strings and remind me of my (not so little anymore) guy at our wedding.

Particularly in this instance, where Sarah dragged him on the dance floor to dance with her and he wanted anything but to dance.  I have eerily similar pictures of Benjamin and I in this situation!

Everyone, and I mean everyone danced but the kids really stole the show and busted some crazy moves!

I thought I spied some sunset so I went outside to check it out and found this motley crew -

And sunset! So I grabbed them for a quick kiss and then it was back to the party.

Bouquet toss and once again, everyone is front and center and enjoying the festivities!

Shortly after that it was time to take my leave; and I’m positive everyone continued to dance the night away!

Thanks Melissa — the pictures look great  - I haven’t gotten through all of them yet — but really beautiful!  thanks so much. I have already passed along your name to some people we know that are getting married next year!

Sarah & Jason — thank you so much for having me at your wedding!  In case you hadn’t figured it out by my gushing I was bowled over by your family & friends!  I hope this first half a year (bad blogger!) of marriage has been wonderful!

~MelissaKoren

]]> http://melissakoren.com/2010/11/04/sarah-jason-05-08-10/feed/ 0 http://melissakoren.com/2010/09/02/danica-chris-02-13-10/ http://melissakoren.com/2010/09/02/danica-chris-02-13-10/#comments Fri, 03 Sep 2010 01:20:19 +0000 melissakoren http://melissakoren.com/?p=2566 Nothing says love, or true New-Englander, like a Valentine’s Weekend wedding in NH   Chris and Danica took the ultimate leap of faith — trusting the weather — for their nuptial plans and it went off without a hitch!  

I arrived at the Executive Court as Danica was finishing up the final details.  I LOVE her bouquet — the pinks & purples with the red roses and the white stephanotis are so romantic!

Hi Danica! You’re glowing!

Precision corset tying 101 and a little multi-tasking preparing the front and back at the same time  

Cute. With a capital C.  

It must have been getting close to time because next thing I know the room was FILLED with people all making sure Danica looked her best. (good job folks!) 

All these final touches can prove a tad boring for little girls who find their own fun in the jacuzzi faucet! 

And then — it was time.  Chris you look sharp. I love the striations in the tie! 

The whole crew was smokin’. Yay for bold color!

Danica’s daughter was very overwhelmed by the whole thing.  She had the whole place tearing up.  And they are married!

Grandchildren! No lie, these kids were too cute and they stole the show. 

A few shots in the foyer of the Best Western and then 

Braving the cold for some outdoor shots.  I’m loving these columns.  

It was time to head in and warm up — and party!  More of the beautiful flowers and a GREAT cake awaited us.  I just love the simple and unique design on this cake!!

 After the first dance it was time for some beautiful and heartfelt toasts.

I love that the kids signed the guest book.  I can only smile thinking about showing and reminding them of it on their parents 25th wedding anniversary.  

And then — it was time to get down to it.  And remember - I already warned you that the kids were center stage! 

but they weren’t the only one’s cutting a rug

love is timeless.  

Who’s having a good time!? You are!

 And I did too!  Thank you guys for having me at your romantic Valentine’s Day for 100!

 ~MelissaKoren

Chris & Robyn love each other with every inch of themselves.  It’s inspiring and overwhelming to watch.

It was time for the toasts and they had a special bottle of sparkly just for them.  Until Chris didn’t know how to open it and broke off to top.  What do you see Chris??  

Some creative uncorking and success!

Once they’d figured out how to get into the booze it was time for the speeches.  Sarah’s sisters & Chris’ brother both did wonderful jobs of toasting.. and roasting.. their siblings.  

Much to their chagrin perhaps…  

Yay parents! 

Taking his wife — and his Guinness for a swing

Thank you. Here’s your knife.

Sword.

Whatever. 

I love this photo.  A lot.

I’m not sure how far she thought she had to throw the bouquet but I love the concentration on the left, and the posing on the right! 

Aw.. how sweet.  

Heh, or not so much  

There’s only one guy even pretending to get it.  The guy in the purple sweater is just dancing.

And then. Well. And then the hilarity ensued.  It was good Robyn didn’t have a veil with all these other headdress options available for her. 

Get it? He’s got top guns?

1million points to whoever can guess this song.

Glasses are overrated! 

One of the last songs of the evening.  This is NOT the YMCA.. I stepped out of the room for a moment and when I came back they were singing about pirates and eyes and booties… and hilarity.  

Party till your shoes fall apart! 

And as a shout out to  my ‘superhumanpowers’ it turns out that the sore throat and run-down-ed-ness I thought was just stress & excitement of an all alone trip turned out to be a hellaciouis case of strep and a fever of 102.   But that wasn’t to worry about and discover until I was home and Robyn & Chris were well on their way to happily ever after!

I’m pretty sure that words will never truly be able to describe the awesomeness that was this adventure.  Thank you Robyn & Chris for such an opportunity!  Let’s hope it’s not another 13 years before we get together again!

Oh my lord, Melissa!!  These are amazing.…!!  You caught so many aspects of this day that I thought were unpalpable…  you are wonderful!  I would like to post something on your website, if that’s alright!
Thank you again, you really made that day so special.…  and allowed me to relive it again when I went through those pictures.” ~ Robyn

The girls’ flowers — the peacock theme was amazing. 

And integrated into every possible place they could.  Check out the fabulousity of those tights!  All the ladies had them.   

Cloaks & dresses.  Being January in DC and outside Robyn & Chris ensured that the gang would be ready to brave any weather.

Her mum helped get her ready with care and precision.

After the dress was laced it was time to help Robyn get in her shoes. Well - — her footwear. AYKM!? HeckYES! 

Robyn does something topsecret in NV. Ok, maybe it’s not topsecret but I can’t remember exactly.  I know she flies jets though!  After the last of the final touches we headed to the Amphitheater.

I don’t know if you remember all the snow that DC got this past winter.  Well, luckily, that started pretty much the day AFTER I left.  The day of the wedding was unseasonably warm and sheer perfection for an outdoor afternoon wedding! 

Robyn’s sisters & the OMG so cute flower girls.

Her dad walked her down the stairway and Chris met her at the bottom and walked her the rest of the way to the stage.  Look at their look!  

Chris’ parents & Robyn’s parents.  They make me cry — so proud of their children! (and rightfully so!!) 

The Mason District Park Amphitheater.  Wow.  

The ceremony was full of amazing stories of the two of them.  Having never met Chris and really only knowing Robyn casually it took no time at all for me to feel like I’d known these two forever and to be completely enveloped in the world that is their friends & family.

Done! I think Chris’ smile is going to leap right off his face!  

I can’t look at this without laugh-crying.  The adorable red head had been sure she would help the sweet blonde.  She thought she was right next to her and when she turned to find her stumbling a few steps back she was so concerned! 

Birdseed in a park is a wonderful idea!

Until you realize that the people you invited to your wedding are ruthless and chucking it at you full force!

Maybe it was because I got to spend so much time with this group but I could not get enough of their interactions and loving.   

Chris those are great boots — but — I think they’re sort of outshined by the green bling platforms! 

I have to say that the advantage to being so behind in my blogs is getting to relive this over again all this time later.  It still feels like yesterday!  And wait til you see the reception — I wish we could do it all over again tomorrow!!

…to be continued… 

Social networking is the strangest thing. 

In 1998 I took my first plane trip ever to Syracuse, NY to visit a friend at SU.  I stayed with him in his ‘frat house’.  There I met Robyn.  She was vivacious and fabulous and she taught me how to drink CiderJack (like a champ).  We stayed in touch via email & AIM for a little while but as with most things the contact dwindled.

Sometime about 5 years ago, when myspace was still cool, I thought I’d search her.  With a very unique last name I was sure I’d found her and we exchanged OMG’s.

Myspace was never my favorite.  It was too hard to do/see/be.  Then came facebook.  We friended.  She announced she was engaged.  I jokingly pimped myself out.  November 2009, I get a message, asking if I was serious and would I travel to the DC area to shoot her wedding.  In January?!

y.e.s.

So after my whirlwind second half of 2009 I caught my breath, packed my bags, and boarded a fight to this destination wedding.  Only I would have a destination wedding in DC in January.  I didn’t care, I was SO excited.  It was also the first time ever I’d taken a trip completely alone.  (yes, I was 31. sheesh)

I made it in one piece! Flight, Luggage, Metro, Shuttle, Hotel, Rehearsal! (Destination wedding fact: If the travel plans include me arrived and settled by the time of your rehearsal/dinner — I’m there & shooting as a bonus!)

The wedding was taking place at the Mason District Park Amphitheater and after a somewhat … loud & gleeful reunion in the hotel lobby we headed off. 

The boys

The procession 

The girls. 

 The dinner. Which was at a chinese restaurant which had the best ever ‘beef candy’ I’ve ever had. Ever.  I have no idea what it was but I still want it at least twice a month.  

 Argh! Delinquent blogger strikes again.  I know that I took this picture on the left with purpose, there was a story.  But.. uh… Bueller? 

The bride and groom.  I think this is the for better or worse before and after. HAHA

By the time I left I was SO excited for the wedding.  This small sampling of their loved ones & friends and family was so amazing — I could only imagine what the next day had to bring!

I arrived at Bedford Village Inn as hair and makeup was finishing up with Katie’s mum.

And Katie was getting into her dress.  I love the hands making their appearance in the left hand photo.

Once the dress was in the right place it was time for the veil!

And some s.e.x.y. red shoes. HELLO Christmas! 

It was just about time and Katie’s dad came in to check on her.  Just look at them — and her mom & brother in the background.  Such an enamored family! 

Katie was BRAVE and humored my idea of heading out on the balcony in the pitch black of the windy December night.  I don’t know — I’m think it was worth it.  

Then it was time.  Oh Jed. I heart you. Not like Katie does though — wow-eeee!   

Something about the two of them and the feeling of their wedding was just so classic.  I found myself loving so many of their photos in black & white.  

Short & Sweet, but to the point. 

Christmastime is magical. Christmastime wedding at BVI is like a Martha Stewart December issue came to life.  uh.maze.ing.

From the details in the bouquet to the ornament place cards everything was perfection.

They danced very lovely parent dances, but my most favorite part was when Katie’s parents took the dance floor and danced like it was their first dance.  Katie and Jed watched them with love and awe (and perhaps making some mental notes ) 

Then the props came out and the party got down! 

Flash Forward!  I caught Kate & Marcus during a slow dance and I knew it looked familiar!  I love that even without seeing their faces you can tell how in love they are.  And, um, how much they are in love with the little one to be — Kate was 5 months pregnant in this photo! (And I get to meet their CA-UTE! baby this fall!)

But enough about Kate & Marcus — this is after all Katie & Jed’s wedding!  And here they are one last time surrounded by friends and family celebrating them. As it should be!

Thank you thank you guys.  More than you know.

~MelissaKoren