Wedding Photography at Delaware Park’s Marcy Casino in Buffalo, NY

Kelly + Kristen

When my friend Mark told me his friends Kelly and Kristen were looking for a photographer for their wedding at Delaware Park’s Marcy Casino in Buffalo, he added that they’re, “that sort of BEAUTIFUL couple with the whole inner/outer beauty thing going on.” He sold these two short.

Kelly and Kristen have that undeniable THING. They’re that couple you can’t help but sit back and soak in what they’re putting out. The attention they pay one another, the fun they have together, they’re CONNECTED. Photographing that connection, that’s my favorite, and one of the most inspiring aspects of being a wedding photographer for me.

Kelly and Kristen planned an easy going wedding in one of the most idyllic settings in Buffalo, Marcy Casino in Delaware Park. When we met before the wedding, they described their vibe as sweet, light and fun. This wedding was all that and then some.

We began the day at neighboring Hotel Henry for few, “getting ready” photos and portraits on the front steps of the hotel. Kelly and Kristen wanted to spend every minute of their wedding day together and got ready in the same room. It was such a nice change of pace to photograph the excitement and anticipation of the day as a shared experience, and made for some of my favorite photos of the day.

brides look at each other and laugh while getting ready for wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides get ready for wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides hold hands while getting ready for wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides hold hands while getting ready for wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides laugh together while getting ready for wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides smile at each other while getting ready for wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides touch feet while getting ready for wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides get ready during portrait session before wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides laugh during portrait session before wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides laugh during portrait session before wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides kiss during portrait session before wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides laugh during portrait session before wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides touch forheads during portrait session before wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides look at each other while walking down steps during portrait session before wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY
brides walk down steps during portrait session before wedding at Hotel Henry in Buffalo, NY

Just a couple blocks from the Hotel Henry in Buffalo was Kelly and Kristen’s wedding ceremony and reception venue, Marcy Casino in Delaware Park!

Conveniently, Hoyt Lake and the Albright Knox Art Gallery are located within Delaware Park and serve as beautiful backdrops for wedding portraits.

wedding party poses for portrait on steps to Hoyt Lake brides slow dance on top of steps to Hoyt Lake during portrait session on wedding day in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

We see you dad!

brides walk up steps to Hoyt Lake brides slow dance on top of steps to Hoyt Lake during portrait session on wedding day in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides slow dance on top of steps to Hoyt Lake during portrait session on wedding day in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides slow dance on top of steps to Hoyt Lake during portrait session on wedding day in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

The butterfly!!!

brides laugh as butterfly swarms on steps to Hoyt Lake during portrait session on wedding day in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides walk hand in hand down steps toward Hoyt Lake during portrait session on wedding day in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
bride kisses bride on nose during portrait session on wedding day in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
bride poses for portrait during session on wedding day in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
bride smiles for photographer for portrait on wedding day ceremony in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
bride poses for portrait on wedding day ceremony in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
bride poses for portrait on wedding day ceremony in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
bride smiles for photographer on wedding day ceremony in front of Albright Knox in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

Marcy Casino has two gorgeous options for wedding ceremonies, the Rose Garden and Hoyt Lake. Both are wonderful, but Kelly and Kristen opted for the lake.

signage is displayed during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests gather during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
man plays guitar during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
rainbow row boats float in water during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
ring bearer blows bubbles during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
groomsmen walk ring bearer and flowergirl down aisle during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

I love this quiet moment Teri captured just before the brides walked down the aisle. It really illustrates the connection these two have to one another.

brides touch noses before walking down aisle during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides walk down aisle during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides smile at guests during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides smile at each other during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
parents react with smiles and tears during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides smile at each other during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides recite vows during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides look at one another during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides place rings on each others fingers during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides say vows during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides laugh during vows during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides smile at one another during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides kiss during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides kiss during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides kiss during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides celebrate during recessional during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests celebrate by waving streamers during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides celebrate during wedding ceremony in front of Hoyt Lake at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

Hovering above the ceremony site, Marcy Casino was ready to greet the wedding reception guests.

reception room setup during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
candle and greens decor during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
flowers and centerpieces during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
place settings during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
wedding decor featuring greens and rainbow cake during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
rainbow wedding cake during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
place cards during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guest book and matches during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
wedding decor during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides react to seeing wedding decor during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests mingle during cocktail hour on the terrace during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

Nothing says Buffalo pride quite like beef on weck sliders with rainbow flag picks!

beef on weck with rainbow flag tooth picks during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

Kelly and Kristen’s wedding party introductions turned into a full on parade. The wedding party carried rainbow streamers, cardboard cutouts of the couple (and their dog) and inflatable rainbow everything. Once the brides were introduced, the party danced (and high fived) throughout the room in classic locomotion formation.

wedding party enters reception with rainbow streamers during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests react to introductions during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
wedding party carries rainbow unicorn during introductions during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
wedding party cheers during introductions at wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
wedding party dances locomotion style during introductions during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides cut cake during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

The brides lead a rendition of “Happy Birthday to You” for their guests celebrating their birthdays at the wedding.

brides sing happy birthday to you during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests react to happy birthday song during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
mother of bride delivers speech during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides laugh during speech during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
bride hugs mom after speech during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
father of bride delivers speech during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests react to speech during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
maid of honor delivers speech during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides laugh during speech during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests react to speech during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides laugh at speech during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
maid of honor delivers speech during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

Outside Marcy Casino, a gorgeous Buffalo sunset awaited the wedding guests just before the dancing portion of the reception started on the terrace.

sunset over Hoyt Lake and science museum during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides kiss in front of sunset over Hoyt Lake during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests dance
guests dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
little girl sits on rainbow unicorn during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
bridesman rides rainbow unicorn, lifts ring bearer, during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

Almost forgot to make it official! You know Kelly and Kristen adored all their guests as they literally grabbed the two closest people to sign their marriage certificate.

brides and witnesses sign marriage license during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

As a photographer, I can tell you this sort of dance floor awareness is rare, and this guests deserves all the props.

guests dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides dance
brides kiss during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests laugh while dancing during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests hug during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guest dances during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
brides dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY
guests dance during wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

The evening ended with some VERY smokey sparklers held by guests who were probably not in any condition to handle fire, but somehow we all escaped unscathed and this fun last photo was created.

brides kiss during sprakler exit at wedding at Marcy Casino in Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

Many thanks to Kelly and Kristen for having us document your wedding day at Marcy Casino in Buffalo! And thank you to all these venues and vendors who helped make the day so great!

Brides Preparation: Hotel Henry, RIP

Ceremony Venue: Hoyt Lake in Delaware Park

Portraits: Hotel Henry and Hoyt Lake (Albright Knox in background) at Delaware Park

Reception Venue: Marcy Casino / The Terrace

Hair + Makeup: Kassie Depke for Groom Service

Florist: Flowers by Nature

Kelly’s Jumpsuit: Jill Stuart Mara in ivory & Rosemary Shrug for BHLDN

Kristen’s Dress: Tomomi Okubo

Officiant: Erie County Court Judge, Sue Maxwell Barnes

Bakery: Muscareil’s

DJ: Mikey for Whirlin’ Disc

Second Photographer: Teri Fiske

The COVID-19 Vaccine and the Black Community in Rochester, NY

Sister Marsha Allen, Dr. Angela Branche, volunteers provide COVID-19 education and theraputics to the Black community in Rochester, NY

As we all know, the year 2020 brought us COVID-19. It also brought the Black Lives Matter movement to new heights in the wake of the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and so many others. These may seem like unrelated stories, but they collided and took new meaning while documenting the story of Sister Marsha Allen, Dr. Angela Branche and their efforts to both aid the Black community and increase COVID-19 vaccine participation in Rochester, NY.

I’ve spent a LOT of time in Rochester throughout the past year. I’ve mainly been covering stories related to racism within the Rochester Police Department for Reuters – from the fallout following the release of police cam footage of Daniel Prude’s killing, to an exhaustive three part report we released about the history of policing the Rochester Police Department through the lens of Silvon Simmons‘ story. Sister Marsha and Dr. Branche’s story would be a different story about race in the city of Rochester though.

Sister Marsha poses for portrait in Rochester, New York,
Sister Marsha poses for portrait in Rochester, New York, U.S., November 14, 2020.

Meet Sister Marsha Allen (above), an Ivy League educated, ordained minister, who runs a three acre community farm (The Vineyard) in Rochester’s poorest and predominately black neighborhood. Sister Marsha saw members of her already struggling community being affected by COVID-19 at astonishing and disproportionate rates. She knew she needed to help.

Sister Marsha had begun planning a door knocking campaign to try to educate the community about COVID-19, when a mutual connection brought Dr. Angela Branche in to the picture. Dr. Branche, another Ivy Leaguer, black woman, and infectious disease expert was working on a COVID-19 clinical trial at the University of Rochester, just a few miles away. Dr. Branche wasn’t seeing members of the black community represented at the COVID-19 vaccine trials. She knew she also needed to reach out to the Rochester community for help. Thus, an alliance was formed. These two needed each other.

Sister Jenthia Abell and Dr. Angela Branche hand out coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survival kit to Natalie Hall as part of a door-to-door outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Sister Jenthia Abell and Dr. Angela Branche hand out coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survival kit to Natalie Hall as part of a door-to-door outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., October 17, 2020.

Knowing and understanding the immense mistrust of vaccines within the Black community, Sister Marsha and Dr. Branche had to approach the community on a grassroots level. They knew that to build trust, they needed to rely heavily on giving Black people access to doctors and scientists of color. Dr. Branche was able to bring in volunteer doctors and nurses from her medical circles to speak to the community. She was also able to secure donations from the University of Rochester to create thousands of COVID-19 survival kits. The kits were equipped with masks, thermometers, sanitizer and information about the disease. They created teams of volunteers to go door-to-door to answer any questions people may have about the disease, vaccines, vaccine trials and everything in between.

The barn at the Vineyard, became the staging ground for assembling these kits and teaching the community about the COVID-19 vaccine.

Sister Marsha and Dr. Angela Branche talk amongst coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survival kit supplies as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Sister Marsha and Dr. Angela Branche talk amongst coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survival kit supplies as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., October 17, 2020.

Sister Marsha often uses military references when describing the work they do to keep the community safe and often referred to this undertaking as, “holding the line.”

The effort to, “hold the line” didn’t stop with door knocking though. Sister Marsha and Dr. Branche organized several different types of outreach events, the first of which was a neighborhood food drive. With the help of Wegman’s grocery store and other local farms, free fresh food boxes were assembled and passed out as part of a six week campaign to help financially struggling families get by during the pandemic. Over 1,200 people lined the street to receive their food box on the morning of October 17th. The struggle of Rochester’s Black community was illustrated plainly when observing those waiting in this massive line.

 Dr. Angela Branche (front) observes the hand out of fresh food boxes and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survival kits as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Dr. Angela Branche (front) observes the hand out of fresh food boxes and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survival kits as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., October 17, 2020.
Dr. Angela Branche inspects food box as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Dr. Angela Branche inspects food box as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., October 17, 2020.
Sister Marsha and Dr. Angela Branche and volunteers hand out fresh food boxes and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survival kits as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Fresh food boxes and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survival kits are passed out as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., October 17, 2020.

As members of the community reached the front of the line, they weren’t just given the food box but also a COVID-19 survival kit. Those interested in learning more about COVID-19 were invited back to the farm for training sessions. These sessions would provide a safe haven to ask questions, get answers from experts, and in turn educate others.

Sister Marsha signs community member up to receive fresh food box and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survival kit as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Sister Marsha signs community member up to receive fresh food box and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) survival kit as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., October 17, 2020.

As the fall continued, Sister Marsha and Dr. Branche raised funds to purchase “bubbles” for families to safely gather in at the farm.

Community members gather by family in "bubbles" during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Community members gather by family in “bubbles” during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., November 14, 2020.

They hosted several events each weekend in the bubbles so community members could learn more about COVID-19 from experts in the field. Each bubble had a table, chairs, a small space heater, COVID-19 literature and a microphone so they could freely ask questions from their bubble.

Sister Marsha and Sister Jenthia Abell opened and closed the sessions with a prayer and song. In between, infectious disease experts presented material about COVID-19, the vaccine, and gave space for neighbors to ask questions.

Sister Jenthia Abell leads a song during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Sister Jenthia Abell leads a song during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., November 14, 2020.

The questions they asked were eye opening. “Why do black people get COVID more than white people?” “If the vaccine makes me sick and I don’t have insurance, what will happen to me?” “Can I die from a vaccine?” “Will the government mandate me to get the vaccine?” A young boy even asked how he could make a vaccine himself.

Community members gather by family in "bubbles" during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Community members gather by family in “bubbles” during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., November 14, 2020.
Dr. Ann Falsey, an infectious disease doctor from the University of Rochester, speaks to community members in "bubbles" during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Dr. Ann Falsey, an infectious disease doctor from the University of Rochester, speaks to community members in “bubbles” during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., November 14, 2020.
Dr. Joey Benoit Prosper. an infectious disease doctor from Haiti, speaks to members of the community in "bubbles" during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Dr. Joey Benoit Prosper. an infectious disease doctor from Haiti, speaks to members of the community in “bubbles” during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., November 14, 2020.
Children draw with their fingers in the steam on the wall of their "bubble" during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Children draw with their fingers in the steam on the wall of their “bubble” during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., November 14, 2020.
Demina Stewart, RN a trainer of telehealth assistants for COVID-19 Mobile Clinic and Telemedicine Center speaks to community members during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Demina Stewart, RN a trainer of telehealth assistants for COVID-19 Mobile Clinic and Telemedicine Center speaks to community members during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., November 14, 2020.

You can read the full Reuters story about the COVID-19 vaccine and the black community in Rochester by my colleagues Julie Steenhuysen and Nick Brown here.

Sister Marsha Allen poses for portrait with "bubbles" during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York
Sister Marsha Allen poses for portrait with “bubbles” during a training session as part of an outreach program to the Black community to increase vaccine trial participation in Rochester, New York, U.S., November 14, 2020.

St John and Pearl at the Webb Wedding in Buffalo, NY

Meghan + Chris

Flash back Friday! Meghan and Chris were married here in Buffalo back in 2016 at St. John the Baptist Church and had a SUPER fun wedding reception at the Webb Building by Pearl Street Catering (aka Pearl at the Webb).

I had a recent client inquiry for another wedding at the Webb and realized I didn’t have any posts on my blog to share with them from this super pretty venue, and that needed to change. So without further ado, one of my favorites from Pearl at the Webb!

I began the day with Meghan and her crew of bridesmaids at her family home while my second shooter for the day, Jen, spent some time with Chris and his groomsmen.

bride and bridesmaids get ready before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom read cards from one another before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
bride looks at self in mirror before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
brides shoes and earrings sit on steps before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
brides dress hangs in doorway before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
mother buttons bride dress before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
bride, mother and maid of honor laugh before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
bride puts on shoes before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
bride puts on earrings before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
dog looks at photographer before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
bride has veil placed and groomsman has flower pinned on before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
bridesmaid cries at sight of bride before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
bride smiles for photographer before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY
bridesmaids smile for photographer before wedding ceremony in Buffalo, NY

On to the beautiful St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore for the ceremony. This is a really unique church for the Buffalo area. We are blessed with a wealth of gorgeous churches in our region, but most are really dark inside. I love that look. But I also love how bright and cheerful St. John the Baptist is. This church really suit Meghan and Chris and it photographs SO effortlessly!

bride arrives in trolley before wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride peeks out at guests before wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
maid of honor and flower girl walk down aisle during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
father and bride walk down aisle during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
father and bride walk down aisle during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
groom cries as bride walks down aisle during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
mother of bride cries during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
groom cries as bride walks down aisle during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
groom shakes father of brides hand during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
groom hugs father of bride during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
groom cries while looking at bride during processional during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
guests wipe tears during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
flower girls smiles for photographer during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
priest delivers sermon during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom smile at priest during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bridesmaids watch during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
groomsmen watch during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
photography from balcony of church during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY

Chris ran the choir at St Joe’s High School and invited these young men to sing at the wedding ceremony. They did such a beautiful job and it was such a nice personal touch!

boys choir from St. Joe
bride and groom exchange vows during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
groom looks at bride during vows during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride smiles at groom during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom exchange rings during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom light candle during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
guests bring up gifts during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
guests hold hands and pray during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
guests pray during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
mother and father of groom hug bride during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
father of groom smiles at bride during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
guests receive communion during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom smile at each other during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom smiles at guests during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride smiles at maid of honor during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom kiss during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom smile at each other during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom kiss during wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom exit church after wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom exit church with bubbles after wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom exit church with bubbles after wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride and groom exit church with bubbles after wedding ceremony at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride, groom and family pose for portrait with photographer at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY
bride, groom and family pose for portrait with photographer at St. John the Baptist church in Kenmore, NY

Near St. John the Baptist was the sight of Chris and Meghan’s first date! We stopped in to this cozy diner/bar for a quick drink before heading to Buffalo’s Outer Harbor for wedding portraits.

wedding party toasts at bar bride at wedding in Buffalo, NY

The Buffalo Outer Harbor has a wealth of great spots for wedding portrait photography. Chris and Meghan picked Gallagher Pier and Gallagher Beach for their pictures. Check out this post to see more great spots for photography along the Buffalo Outer Harbor!

wedding party poses for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
groom and groomsmen bride pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and bridesmaids pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and groom pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and groom pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and groom pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and groom pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and groom pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and groom pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and groom pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and groom pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and groom pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and groom pose for photographer at wedding on pier at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY

When wedding parties pose themselves… (:

wedding party poses for photographer at wedding at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
bride and maid of honor laugh at wedding at Gallagher Beach on Outer Harbor of Buffalo, NY
boutonniere flowers at wedding at Outer Harbor in Buffalo, NY
flower bouquet at wedding at Outer Harbor in Buffalo, NY

Back on the trolley to head to their wedding reception venue, Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo!

bride and groom smile for photographer on back of trolley at wedding at Outer Harbor in Buffalo, NY

I love the exterior of Pearl at the Webb Building, it’s such a gem in the world of Buffalo architecture and also makes a great backdrop for couples who want wedding pictures with a more urban Buffalo backdrop.

cake and signage decor at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
centerpieces and decor at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
place cards and other decor at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY

These wedding party introductions were second to none. The final introduction featuring another LDP bride, Nikki, has yet to be beat.

wedding party is introduced in to room at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
wedding party is introduced in to room at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
wedding party is introduced in to room at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
wedding party is introduced in to room at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
wedding party is introduced in to room at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom are introduced to room at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom cut cake at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
maid of honor delivers speech at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom toast during speeches at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
father of bride delivers speech at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY

I’ve photographed several hundred weddings. This best man speech was, without question, hands down, the longest speech I’ve ever heard. There was even a pamphlet to follow along with!

best man delivers speech at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom laugh during speeches at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY

Chris and Meghan had SO MUCH FUN on the dance floor. Their first dance kicked it off with the Zac Brown version of Into the Mystic and these two ROCKED. OUT. Or should I say, “let their soul and spirit fly.” <3

bride and groom dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and dad dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and dad dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and dad dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
bride and dad dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
groom and mom dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
groom and mom dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
groom and mom dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
groom and mom dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests pose for photographer at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY

The formalities didn’t stop with the open dance floor. There was one last surprise for Meghan – the groomsmen singing(?), performing(?), losing their minds(?) to Bohemian Rhapsody. This was epic.

guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY

From my professional experience, I can tell you these poles see a lot of action at Pearl at the Webb weddings.

guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY
guests dance at wedding reception venue Pearl at the Webb in Buffalo, NY

That’s all for this one! It has been so fun to relive the memories all these years later.

Many thanks Chris and Meghan for having us document your day! And thank you to all these venues and vendors who helped make the day so great!

Bride Preparation: Private Residence

Groom Preparation: Private Residence

Ceremony: St. John the Baptist Church in Kenmore, NY

Portraits: Buffalo Outer Harbor – Gallagher Beach and Pier

Reception: Pearl at the Webb

Makeup: Maria Miosi

Florist: Maureen’s

Bakery: Marsha Fortman

DJ: Absolute Sound

Transportation: Buffalo Trolleys

Second Photographer: Jen Gattie

Delaware Park Wedding Engagement Photography

Liz and Peter’s winter wedding engagement photography session at Delaware Park in Buffalo, NY

Liz and Peter had high hopes for a snowy wedding engagement photography session while they were visiting their hometown, Buffalo, NY, for the holidays. Unfortunately, in classic Buffalo style, we had to postpone our original shoot date as it fell smack dab in the middle of a snowstorm with 40mph winds. This wasn’t exactly the look we were going for. A couple days later though, we had a perfect morning for our shoot. There are few places prettier than a snow blanketed Delaware Park on a winter morning.

We began our photo session beside Delaware Park’s Hoyt Lake with the Albright Knox Art Gallery as our backdrop. To say it was a treacherous walk would have been an understatement, it was VERY icy. Luckily Liz and Peter had one another to hang on to though and no catastrophes were had.

groom kisses bride on cheek next to Hoyt Lake with Albright Knox Art Gallery in the background during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY
groom kisses bride on cheek next to Hoyt Lake with Albright Knox Art Gallery in the background during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY

The Ivy Bridge in Delaware Park is an obligatory stop for any photographer working in this park. It makes such a perfect frame around the couple.

bride and groom smile at one another in front of the Ivy Bridge in Delaware Park during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom smile at photographer in front of the Ivy Bridge in Delaware Park during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom smile at one another in front of the Ivy Bridge in Delaware Park during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom smile at one another on Lincoln Parkway in Delaware Park during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY
groom whispers secret to bride on Lincoln Parkway in Delaware Park during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom smile for photographer on Lincoln Parkway in Delaware Park during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom look at one another smiling between the trees on Lincoln Parkway in Delaware Park during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom look at one another smiling between the trees on Lincoln Parkway in Delaware Park during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom look at one another smiling between the trees on Lincoln Parkway in Delaware Park during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY
bride and groom touch foreheads on Lincoln Parkway in Delaware Park during their wedding engagement photography session in Buffalo, NY

That’s all for this wedding engagement photography session at Delaware Park! Can’t wait to celebrate the “big day” with Liz and Peter at the Admiral Room this fall!

Hertel Avenue, North Buffalo Photography

Couples photography session with Katie and Sean around Hertel Avenue and their North Buffalo neighborhood.

This past weekend, my pals Katie and Sean were on the hunt for some fresh photos to gift for the holidays and I was ready to deliver. It’s always fun when friends call for photos, and I’m so glad these two did. We had such a great time wandering around their North Buffalo neighborhood during their couples photography session. Hertel Avenue is where they spend most their time, where they had their first date, etc. so it was only fitting that we had the session right in their neighborhood. We grabbed their pup Jameson and just started walking. I love when couples pick locations that are personal to them. From what I’ve experienced, people tend to photograph their best in locations that make them happy, and this was no exception.

couple walks dog in front of North Park Theater during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY

Jameson was a very, very good boy indeed!

couple plays with dog in front of North Park Theater during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY
couple smiles at each other on bench in front of North Park Theater during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY
couple smiles at each other on bench in front of North Park Theater during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY
couple smiles at each other on bench in front of North Park Theater during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY
couple smiles at each other on bench in front of North Park Theater during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY

Hertel Avenue and the North Park Theater truly make such charming backdrops for photography.

couple kisses in front of North Park Theater during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY

There’s no shortage of fantastic murals around North Buffalo, but this one by Chuck Tingley is really… out of this world…

couple and dog smile at one another in front of Buffalo mural during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY
couple smiles at each other in front of Buffalo mural during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY

My friend Mark Adamusik’s mural made for a colorful backdrop as well!

couple smiles for photographer in front of Buffalo mural during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY
couple laughs in front of Buffalo mural during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY
couple embraces in front of Buffalo mural during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY

Just a man and his pup. <3

man plays with dog during couples mini photography session on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY

One last mural photography stop on Hertel Avenue in North Buffalo!

man kisses woman on cheek in front of Buffalo mural on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY
couple kisses while holding hands in front of Buffalo mural on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY during couples photography session
couple laughs while holding hands in front of Buffalo mural on Hertel Ave. in North Buffalo, NY during couples photography session

That’s all from this mini session! Thanks for the fun times Katie and Sean!

If you or someone you know is looking for a quick session for holiday gifts or cards, please reach out here!