Lucky in Love – Jessica and Jonathan – East Wind Long Island Wedding

 It was like being on the Oprah show.

The first time I met Jessica she pulled out her notebook and began asking numerous questions about my thoughts and knowledge about photography.  Numerous, being an understatement. ; ) We were on a roll and then it happened.

“What makes you different from all other photographers?”

*blink, blink*

I suddenly felt like the girl on the Miss. America pageant when being asked the ‘interview question’. You know –  the girl that gives the answer that you actually have to leave the room for because you get so embarrassed for her?!

In all honesty that question scares hell out of me.  I think it’s one of those questions that keeps small business owners up at night. It’s the kind of question that plays on repeat in our heads like our favorite songs.

How will we succeed? How will we stay ahead of the game? How are we different?

Let’s face it, photography now is almost a commodity. We are a dime a dozen. The market is over saturated. What differentiates one from another? We all use the same labs, we all have the same cameras, and most of us edit pretty similar. So what is the difference?! Is it really only price?

To me it’s personal.

It’s the relationship and chemistry between the photographer and the couple which will make the images look natural or tense. I think it’s also how the photographer looks at life and how they interpret the couples life together. More importantly though it’s about the couple’s story, their love and how they love.

It simply can’t be just a business transaction, because then quite frankly I think the point is being missed completely.

I want to know…

What makes your love different?

All love is not created equal.

Each couple has their own love story and Jessica and Jonathan were no different.

They meet each other with a smile each and every time I have ever seen them glance in the others direction. I love their kindness, and compassion. They’re simply smitten with each other and have a beautiful long history together.

You see, Jess was Jonathan’s high school sweetheart and I had the most amazing privilege to be there when he made her his wife.

They may have gotten lucky in love, but  really we all did just being a small part of their day.

Here is a look at their heartwarming day…

 

I love when couple exchange letters. The anticipation is that much more exciting.

Jessica’s Dad seeing his little girl in her wedding dress…

 

Love this color palette.

 

Just before Jonathan and Jessica’s first look it began to rain…

But…I almost forgot about it because they were so present in the moment.

 

Have I told you yet how much I adore a ‘first look’ before the ceremony?! The reactions are so raw and beautiful.

 

One of my faves…

 

I know. They’re totally cute, right?!

 

A little bit of a different angle…

 

The girls getting cozy to ward off the chill.

 

Shoe shot!

 

The fabulous bridal party!

 

A stolen moment…

 

Here’s the thing. No bride loves when it rains on their day. BUT, you have the opportunity to be just a bystander on one of the most important days of your life OR be in the moment come what may. Jessica was totally fearless. She lived the moment.

Hellooo there you gorgeous things!

 

The walk down the aisle… I love the excitement on the little girls face on the left.

 

Every time Jess cried, I cried. I was a mess all day! ; )

 

Husband and wife.

 

Off to the reception!

 

The wedding reception was held at the fabulous East Wind.

 

Time to party!

One of my favorite moments at weddings… the speeches.

Can I borrow your friends one day?

The father/daughter dance.

 

Jessica’s Mom and brother taking the moment in…

 

I think expressions make a picture ‘speak’.

Happiness!

 

The groom’s cake. OREOS!! Mmmmmmm…

 

Last but not least…

Jessica and Jonathan, thank you SO much for having me along to document such an amazing day. Beyond your moment, I enjoyed seeing how sentimental and emotional both of your families were.  You were surrounded by so much love. It was thrilling to be a ‘fly on the wall’ to see all of that love and emotion.

Hope the closing on your new home went well!

Much love and happiness now and always!

S 

p.s.

Before you go, leave your thoughts below.

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