It was a summer retreat where childhood memories were made. An idyllic setting.
It was sentimental because Johanna’s folks were married right where their house now stands.
The home was filled with natural light, comfy nooks, and the most unbelievable views.
For all of its many amazing attributes, my favorite was the long corridor.
Carefully curated and lovingly framed, were twenty or more black and white photographs of their family which hung in two neat rows.
As I rushed past them over and over throughout the beginning of the day, they seemed to whisper for me to have a closer look.
A photograph has that kind of effect, right?
Pause. Reminisce. Sit with me awhile. Savor.
It was only a matter of time before I gave in.
I studied each face paying close attention to their expressions, personalities,
and shared family traits. The photographs were a glimpse in time of sisters, daughters, vacations, graduations and holidays.
You couldn’t help but get a lump in your throat.
Thereafter, I couldn’t look at Mom and Dad as the mother and father of the bride anymore.
I saw them as newlyweds. I saw them as first-time parents. I saw them raising three little girls.
****
A wedding day is not just another day, it’s the culmination of many moments and memories.
The art that hung on their walls was more than memories though.
It was a statement in this new world of vanishing photographs and albums which digitals are now so heavily relied upon.
The images held in close proximity let you see the contrast and commonalities.
A photograph is endearing on its own, but visually strung together they created a storyline.
A time capsule of some sort.
A life well lived.
****
The story I’m about to tell here is just one day.
One day out of the last 25-30 years of their lives.
One of the many beautiful stories they will relish and celebrate again and again
because of a photograph.
Maybe one day a grandchild will know the joy of this day because
one of these very photographs will hang in that very hallway…
Crazy clouds were rolling in…
but we got lucky and it cleared up a bit….
Loved the unexpected mix of the blue and purple palette…
This is the hallway I mentioned above.
I sooo need to do this in my house!!!
Johanna's impeccable style was represented in every magical detail; from her Carolina Herrera gown to the beautiful Delftware vases and dishes…it was such a feast for the eyes!
I loved this photo of Johanna's parents when they got hitched!
Preparation and anticipation…
"In all the universe it's always been you…"
I mean, with a card like that, it says just as much about Alex as it does Johanna, right?!
Mama's boy…
The boys don't need much for a good time…
The first look…
Every time they looked at one another they smiled!
The girl doesn't have a bad angle.
Reminds me a bit of Grace Kelly!
Alex looking fine!
You really can't tell in these photos, but it was raining and it was freeeeezing.
I know I say it often, but I really have the BEST couples ever!
Peconic Yacht Club is relatively new. It was such a dream to photograph there.
The spot below is right off the main deck of the reception room…
The rainstorm gave way to the most fluffy clouds ever!
Stealing a moment to take it all in…
Heading to the chapel!
Johanna's 'something blue' shoes had me swooning…
Believe it or not, this little church was founded in 1640 as the “First Church of Christ in Southold”.
The cool thing about this church was that the balcony wrapped all the way to the front, which helped us get some beautiful perspectives.
The lucky man…
Mr. + Mrs.
It's always fun to grab a few happy greetings…
I like the moments in between the formals when they are not looking directly at the camera so the images look a little more relaxed.
We do the classic shots too for the folks who prefer a more refined approach.
The celebration begins…
These beautiful vignettes were placed throughout the venue so the decor flowed and looked effortless.
Best wedding favors ever!
YUM!
The best thing about having two photographers are for moments that have an action and a reaction like the toasts!
I love the first dance…
I'm known to cry during the parent dances…
Party time!
Alex and Johanna, thank you so very much for having me along to document and celebrate your happy day with you.
From the speeches at your rehearsal dinner to watching you laugh your way through puddles on your wedding day…there was so much love and happiness.
It was an absolute honor to witness it all!
Ceremony Location | First Presbyterian Church of Southold
Reception Location | Peconic Bay Yacht Club
Florist | Joanna L. Rallis Artisan Floral Design
Dress Designer | Carolina Herrera
Hair Stylist | Vincent Da Silva at Gil Ferrer Salon
Make up Artist | Vincent Da Silva at Gil Ferrer Salon
DJ | Eric Nicolas & One Love, Melissa Rodnon
Cake | Sugar Lane Cake Shop, Ashley Rowland
Bridesmaid Dresses | Joanna August
Groomsmen Attire | The Black Tux
Trolley Service | North Fork Trolley
follow along on instagram @dearstaceyphoto
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