You had to see it to believe it. They warned me that there would be some big dancing going on. I nodded, thinking to myself that I had seen it all, but apparently I had not.
The napkins waved frantically above the crowd, while the 300 guests held hands and rotated in rings going in opposite directions on the dance floor around Abby and Michael. There wasn't a face that didn't have a smile. The happiness was utterly contagious and at times I had to remind myself that I was there actually working.
***
While we still remember, it's easy to forget the importance of a photograph.
Ahh..but that photograph is one of the few things in life that appreciates in value every day. A simple piece of paper etched in a split second – a memory that you will think about the rest of your days. It's a piece of our history, and proof that we have lived. We enjoyed. We were part of the moment that felt at the time bigger than life.
There is something about holding a memory in our hands. To me it's the closest thing to what I imagine time travel would be like. The people, the emotion, the sounds, the smell, the feel all come back. It is a gift that keeps on giving not just to us, but to our children and grand-children.
Below is Abby and Michael's story in photographs. Some of which include the most important people in their lives that helped them celebrate not just that day, but all the happy years yet to come.
When life changes and re-arranges, here is hoping we still…remember when.
Some details…
The moments in between…
A love letter.
The men are kinda easy. Adjust the tie and add the boutonniere!
Reality setting in a bit…
A few shots of Patron, and the only thing the guys have to worry about is getting the groom to the church.
I love stealing five minutes alone with the bride after she is dressed so she can relax, catch her breath and reflect on the day.
On the front of the card it said 'soul mates'.
I couldn't get enough of Michael's nephew!
Minutes before the big moment…
Sighhh…
Saying 'I do'.
Taking a sneak peek…
Sealed with a kiss.
Had to get creative since the video team was front and center. Don't worry though – I got a full shot too.
I live for these seconds within the day.
Abby glancing at her Mom as she walks down the aisle with her new husband.
Nothing like bubbles to make everyone feel young at heart.
Ahhhhhhh!
I changed up the post processing on a few to see how I liked the film look.
What are your thoughts on it?
The formals took place at the lovely Planting Fields.
I'm thrilled when couples take the time to plan well for their pictures with ample time and totally fabulous locations .
Happiness!
A fave of mine…
Some of you might remember the Facebook teaser.
To see more sneak peeks, make sure to 'like' the Dear Stacey Facebook page!
Strolling through the grounds at the Inn at New Hyde Park…
Eat, drink and be merry!
The flower arrangements were designed by, Flowers by Brian.
When I received my wedding proofs, I remember sitting for hours enjoying and looking at every single face in the photographs. Things haven't changed much! : )
Count them. Four rings of their guests circling them. I'm not going to lie – it was awesome!
I believe this particular moment was when Abby's Mom and Dad swayed along to their wedding song…
During their dance, Abby kept her eye on them – taking in the moment.
and shared an emotional tear or two after…
Mama's boy!
Daddy's little girl.
The speeches and toast!
My daughter will be turning eight this July. She doesn't fit like she use to on my lap anymore. When she tells me so, I tell her she will always fit on my lap, at any age.
I saw this, and it made my heart happy.
You can't say he wasn't having any fun! ; )
Ditto!
I love the look of love…
What goes on behind closed curtains…doesn't always stay behind closed curtains! ; )
Abby and Michael, there are no words to adequately describe the beauty of your day and the amount of fun I witnessed and enjoyed at your wedding.
You both make me love what I do even more.
Thank you!
p.s.
Before you go, leave your thoughts below!
20 comments = complimentary gift for the couple!
I love the napkin shot!
Thanks Tricia!
What a beautiful and happy day it was! I can’t invision a more stunning bride! Stacey, you really captured such special moments and told the beautiful story of Abby and Mike through these amazing photos!!! So much love!! <3
Thank you Jessica for taking the time to check out their photographs and leave such kind words!
Love the filmy look – love the emotion and joy. Fantastic!!
Thanks sooo much Amanda for your help on their happy day! xo
What can I say … I think I have looked at this at least 30 times in the past 2 hours. It really shows how happy EVERYONE was on that day, which is something that Mike and I will always cherish. Thank you to everyone who was able to celebrate with us on such a memorable day. We hold each and every memory so close to our hearts and they are all memories that have made our love grow even stronger. THANK YOU STACEY <3
Like I had mentioned- you make me love what I do even more. You and Michael were a dream to work with and I loooved seeing all of the love and happiness that surrounded you both on your day. Thank you so much for having me along on such an amazing ride!
The pictures are beautiful and captured all of the emotions everyone was feeling that day! I’m still tearing up at the shot of Abby dancing with her Dad. Amazing and so touching………thank you for bringing this special day back to all of us.