When Annie and Will first contacted me about photographing their wedding at the Chelsea Piers Lighthouse, I knew with such a striking venue they’d go for classic elegance and simple beauty. When I got to meet them in person, I saw they embodied it too. Drinking hot chocolate in White Plains with these two felt like I was sitting down with a more attractive and fit version of the Kennedys. They were kind, politely funny (unlike my potty mouth humor), clearly in love and quite simply comfortable in their own skin with each other. They brought all that and more to the Cheslea Piers Lighthouse on the big day. Annie was understated perfection in one of the most beautiful dresses I had ever seen, and damn who doesn’t wish their gym teacher looked like her? Will was incredibly dapper, despite having a shirt a little too small for him he had to hold together with deliberate tape which nobody noticed.
From their first look through tying the knot, these two were so open with each other, myself and their guests. No emotion passed through their hearts that didn’t appear on their faces. Which of course made me cry behind the camera. A lot. They made the Lighthouse feel chic and soft, warm and elegant. You quickly forgot that folks were learning the trapeze just a pier away from their intimate evening.
As the evening went from ceremony to reception, the mood shifted from romance to party. The incredibly talented SoundImage got everyone dancing and enjoying themselves. And while most majority-family weddings can feel a little quiet, both of Annie and Will’s sets of in-laws knew how to cut a rug. I was sad to leave this slamming shindig at the end of the night!
Annie looked like a supermodel before her dress was even on all the way!
I love an oceanside First Look.
I hate New Jersey, but even I am loving this view.
I think the best thing a guy can say on his wedding is “I feel like James Bond.” Will looked like a 007 in training too.
Annie and Will chose to have their youngest family members serve as their wedding party, and although they lacked a few years on the happy couple they made up for it in sass and smiles.
The last few moments a bride has by herself or with her mom just before walking down the aisle are quickly becoming my favorite things to document. Killer golden hour lighting helps too.
I always love seeing the expressions as someone’s spouse approaches them at the altar, but I especially loved everybody around Annie and Will beaming with joy as they were about to get married!
I am still SWOOOOONING over this amazing ceremony spot. If you are considering it, book the Chelsea Piers Lighthouse. And do it at sunset. You won’t be sorry.
I am a sucker for emotional couples, but when you’re as gorgeous as these two then I can’t fucking handle it.
I hate interrupting couples at their cocktail hour, but i do not regret running out to get some killer sunset shots.
I loved all the details Annie and Will used to pay homage to New York City, accented by really classy white flowers and centerpieces.
As always, Annie and Will’s reception made me remember I have the best job on earth. Watching buzzed strangers dance is the only way to spend a Friday night.
Annie ALMOST overpowered Will to smash some cake in his face.
FLORALS: Atlas Floral Decorations
HAIR: Janet Ventriglia
MAKE-UP: J & Co
OFFICIANT: Donna Katsuranis
BAND: SoundImage Entertainment
Living just a few blocks away on the edge of Chelsea and Hudson Yards, I am a huge fan of the Chelsea Piers Lighthouse and so many other venues on the west side. Planning your own wedding in the Village or Tribeca? Let’s schedule a time to meet up for a drink to chat about it!
