Melissa and Justin were originally supposed to be married this coming June.  However, due to some health issues her family is facing, they decided to move everything up to January – I was so thankful we weren’t booked and were still able to photograph this very special day.  I’m not sure that we had ever shot a wedding with THAT much emotion, THAT much appreciation for each other, THAT much thankfulness to have everyone that they love together in the same room.  Melissa, Justin and their friends and family were so incredibly joyful on this day – it was intoxicating and in some ways, life changing in that it really forced us to take a look at our own lives and decide to not take anything for granted.  

I REALLY like Melissa and Justin – if you met them, you would too.  Really, they are a crack up – separately and together.  At one point during the reception I was talking to one of Justin’s friends who described him “the guy who is over dancing by himself without a care in the world” – you can tell, he’s just a genuinely happy guy.  And Melissa?  When she saw me walk into her suite at the hotel where she was getting ready, she greeted me in a way that made me feel like I was her lifelong best friend that she hadn’t seen in 5 years….seriously.  These two are legit.  Love them.

This wedding blessed me.  Big time.  

Ceremony – St. Matthew Catholic Church

Reception – The Ritz-Carlton

Hair/makeup – Who’s the Fairest

Bride’s gown – Angelina Bridal Couture purchased from Poffie Girls

Bride’s shoes – Kate Spade

Bridesmaids dresses – Suzi Chin

Suits + ties – Jos A Bank

Guy’s socks – Banana Republic

Flowers – Lily Greenthumb’s Floral Artistry

Trolley – Trolley’s, Inc.

Band – Hot Sauce

Love this moment before the ceremony of Melissa’s mom and Justin’s grandma.  

We had a TON of time for portraits – a photographer’s dream to feel no rush. 🙂

Best cake shot ever.

Best band ever – Hot Sauce!  If you are looking for a band for your wedding, my highest recommendation.  They.  Are.  Amazing. (and hysterical).

This is Justin’s grandma, who sadly, passed away only a couple of weeks ago.  I was actually blown away by her age (90+) and how lively she was at the wedding.  You could tell she was a sweet, sweet lady.