The Mansion at Bretton Woods – Morris Plains, New Jersey
Lester and Amanda – March 22, 2015
Taken while second shooting with Vanessa Marie

This winter wedding had just the right amount of snow. There was no snowfall or snow piles to make us pull out our umbrellas or snow-boots. However, there was just enough that we could carefully tip toe around to get to just the right spot where the snow glistened for a winter wonderland. Lester and Amanda truly looked like an ice prince and princess!

Now that I set up this beautiful scenery of Lester’s and Amanda’s winter wedding, I’m about to put my foot in my mouth and let you know what REALLY comes to mind when I look at their wedding day images! Anxiety! Now wait a minute… Before your mind starts wandering through all possible crazy scenarios, let me stop you right there. Nothing dramatic or intense happened. The day went smoothly. Everyone was happy all day. The families that spoke two very different languages blended together with no effort. The pastel flowers and turquoise bridesmaid dresses added elegance while their sunglasses added a unique style! Nothing was ruined. Everything was perfect. So why does this wedding bring about such uneasiness to me? Because it was the first time I was photographing groom details and a groom getting ready all by myself!

Some of you may be thinking, “oh! That’s it?” Yup! That’s it. But that’s a big job! This is a once in a lifetime day for Lester and I was in charge of capturing his moments! His details were strategically chosen because it went with the wedding theme or because it was of great importance. His watch could have been given to him by Amanda on their first anniversary or by someone in his life that is no longer present. The cologne could have been the scent that he wore when he popped the question. These small details can hold so much sentimental value.

Not only are the groom details important but also the groom’s portraits. These are the images Lester and Amanda will have to show their children and grandchildren. They can’t be anything less than perfect. But we are human and we have to start somewhere. I had studied pictures, listened to my mentor, and watched her work her magic several times. On March 22nd, it was time for me to put on my big girl lens and broaden my experience!