Jon and Tara wanted to marry each other in some place different, an alternative wedding location. So they traveled from California with family and friends, all the way to Salem, Massachusetts. The vibe of Salem perfectly embodied what Tara and Jon pictured for their wedding, and photos in a historical graveyard topped it all off. 

The wedding was held at The Hawthorne Hotel, which is located just steps from the Salem Witch Museum. The hotel itself has an interesting history, which includes a handful of movies being shot on premise. The beautiful ballroom has high ceilings with long ceiling to floor windows, perfectly fit for a elegant wedding. 

Tara, her bridesmaids and a few family members were all getting ready in one of the rooms at The Hawthorne Hotel. Her color palette was purple and magenta, and she even matched her hair which was tinted a pastel violet grey. Her dress was a big princess style ballgown and it fit her perfectly. Tara made such a stunning bride.

Jon and his groomsmen met with me just before the ceremony. We ventured outside and across the street to get a few shots outdoors. I asked Jon's groomsmen to say something to make him laugh, I won't repeat what was said but they sure did a good job!

The ceremony was held in the ballroom at the hotel. It was a very chilly day so it was actually really nice being indoors. Large windows flooded the room with natural light. 

We walked just around the corner from the hotel to the historic graveyard. It was the perfect backdrop for this couple's portraits, and I am so glad they braved the cold to capture these.

While guests were enjoying cocktail hour and we were taking photos the amazing staff at the hotel switched the ballroom over from ceremony to reception. Beautiful violet up-lighting set the mood for the evening and purple hued centerpieces dressed up the tables. 

Tara and Jon received a roaring welcome as they entered into the party as Mr. and Mrs. They immediately took to the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife. 

Wedding photography and videography: Bella Luz Imagery
Venue: The Hawthorne Hotel
Hair and Makeup: Love and Hair Peace
Florist: Flowers by Darlene
Cake: Montillio's Bakery
​DJ: MCO Productions

Aaron and Urmi were such a pleasure to work with. They are both such sweethearts and so easy going, it is impossible not to get along with them. The couple held their wedding ceremony at St. Mary's Church in Kingston and then the reception was held nearby at La Mirage in Ulster, NY. An intimate group of about 80 guests joined the newlyweds to celebrate. Since the wedding took place during the day, I wasn't sure if people would take to the dance floor, but boy was I wrong! This wedding group didn't care what time of day it was, they were happy and in the mood for dancing. 

The morning started with Urmi getting ready. She was full of giggles and had her bridesmaids and mother with her. I love that Urmi stayed true to herself and wore her glasses on her wedding day. She said that she wears them everyday and doesn't feel herself without them, she looked so stunning! A delicate tiara added the perfect touch to her ensemble. 

Urmi had a very emotional first look with her father. It was such a touching moment for everyone who witnessed it.

Aaron is a man of many ties, so I've heard. His tie collection is impressive, and he enjoys very much wearing them. This was not one of those grooms who has to YouTube how to tie a tie, or even how to fold a pocket square. In fact, he is so versed when it comes to dressing well, that he was giving his groomsmen lessons on how to fold the pocket square. I was very impressed to say the least.

As the two families came together at the church you could feel the joy exuding from them. To me, church weddings have a certain amount of solemness to them. It is a joyous occasion, yet very serious at the same time. What I loved about Aaron and Urmi's ceremony was that the priest added just enough humor to the ceremony to keep things lighthearted. 

Aaron and Urmi arrived to La Mirage in style. They were warmly welcomed in by all of their guests and took straight to the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife. 

The reception came to an end just before the sun went down. Urmi and Aaron said their goodbyes and made their way outside to the garden area of La Mirage where we took their portraits.

Photography and Videography: Bella Luz Imagery
Venue: La Mirage Restaurant and Catering
Church: St. Mary's Church, Poughkeepsie
Flowers: Roberts for Flowers
Cake: The Pastry Garden
DJ: R&R Entertainment
Hotel: Residence Inn

I first met Evie and Tejorn at their engagement session. From the very start I could see that these two had something really special. On their wedding day, their love for one another and for their families radiated ten times over. 

The day started with Tejorn getting ready with his groomsmen. I am not entirely sure how he felt but from the outside Tejorn seemed calm, cool and collected. I could tell that he was excited, and couldn't wait to see his beautiful bride. He kept things classy with a grey suit accented with a plum bow tie and pocket square.

Evie and her bridesmaids were getting ready nearby at a house. Her dress was a simple silhouette but had beautiful beading covering it in its entirety, she looked absolutely gorgeous in it.

Evie and her girls has a special surprise planned for the groom and groomsmen. The girls all pulled out Smirnoff Ice beers from behind their backs and "Iced" them all. Talk about an awesome wife! Tejorn stepped up to the challenge along with all of the other groomsmen and chugged his beer in style.

The ceremony was held in an outdoor courtyard at Anthony's Pier 9. A beautiful candle alter was setup for the bride and groom. The bride's brother officiated the ceremony while different family members and friends contributed throughout. By the time the ceremony ended is was completely dark out and the only light that was given off was from the candles. 

The reception was held in the ballroom at Anthony's Pier 9. Large chandeliers hung from the ceiling while delicate flower arrangements were set on each table. The newlyweds made a grand entrance as they rose out from the stage floor to join their wedding party. 

Photography: Bella Luz Imagery
Venue: Anthony's Pier 9
Hair: Candice Buckett, Jamie Boo, Maddie
Makeup: Desiree Leigh 
DJ/Photobooth: Empire Sound
Bride's Bouquet: Batts Florist
Cake: The Pastry Garden

Emil and Kori held a charming wedding in a beautiful, rustic barn in the Berkshire area of Massachusetts. Emil has been a family friend of mine since I was little, and I have come to know the beautiful bride through him as well. It was so sweet to see the tender way that Emil cared for his wife on their wedding day. If they were near one another you could be sure that he was gently showing his love for her, by having his hand on the small of her back, by holding her hand, or giving her a big hug. It was very easy to see the love and joy between these two and their young son. 

Kori and her bridesmaids prepared for the wedding in the farmhouse. She was so excited for the big day and was the most bubbly I had ever seen her. Dashing from place to place, excited to take photos with each and every loved on that was there to celebrate with her. Her dress was absolutely beautiful with a sheath lace top and a long train.

Photography and videography: Bella Luz Imagery
Venue: Private Farm
Rentals: Mahaiwe Tent

Taylor and Chris married one another on the edge of Pontoosuc Lake. Friends, family and their little baby son watched on as the two vowed to be with one another for the rest of their lives. The Lake House is the venue they chose, and I can totally understand why. It is conveniently located, absolutely beautiful, and even has lodging for out of town guests. 
Taylor opted out of having getting ready photos, so the day started with the wedding ceremony. She was escorted down the aisle by both of her parents. She looked radiant. 

After the ceremony guests were invited to cocktail hour while the wedding party took photos out on the docks. I don't think we could have asked for a better view. 

The reception was held under a tent. Taylor and Chris were warmly welcomed in, they immediately took to the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife. 

Photography: Bella Luz Imagery
Venue: The Lake House
Wedding Coordinator: Kelsey Mozzi
Florist: Parisi Designs and Co Florist
Catering/cake: Log Rolling Catering
Band: Those Guys
Rentals: Classical Tents

There was no lack of love, happiness or smiles at Jackie and Harrison's wedding. The two have been together since high school, and have everything going for them. After dating for 9 years they decided to tie the knot with all of their friends and family there to celebrate with them. August Moon was the perfect venue for what they envision, a weekend of outdoor fun and hanging out. The house and adjacent garage allows friends and family to stay on site, and the beautiful forest and fields make for amazing photos. 

Jackie got ready with her wonderful group of bridesmaids. She is so comfortable in her own skin and true to herself, it is something that I feel you don't see that often and it was a breath of fresh air. Her sister did a great job of keeping her laughing while she was getting her hair done, and her friends all looked beautiful in their two-piece bridesmaid gowns. I loved Jackie's details, right down to her converse after-party shoes. 

Harrison and his groomsmen were getting ready at August Moon as well. He looked so dapper with his blush bow tie and loose curls. 

Jackie and Harrison did a first look before the ceremony. They wanted to take all of their photos early on so that they could enjoy as much time as possible with family and friends after the ceremony. The grounds of August Moon worked perfectly for portraits. 

The ceremony setup was gorgeous. A handmade quilt which featured bits of fabric from all of the woman in Jackie's family was placed on one corner of the arch, it was such a special added touch.

After the ceremony the wedding party made their way to the tennis club house for a intimate toast. Jackie headed that way hand and hand with her new mother-in-law. 

The reception was held under a large tent with wild flowers set along the center of each table. Jackie and Harrison had fun with a choreographed dance, and speeches were made by the best man and maid of honor. 

Photography and Videography: Bella Luz Imagery
Venue: August Moon
Wedding Planner: Only in my Dreams Events
Catering: The Marketplace Kitchen
Florist: Market 32
Hair: Glamour by Steph
​Makeup: TAC Cosmetics
​Rentals: Classical Tents

Damian and Evalina met when they were just kids, being neighbors in the small village of Harlemville. Even as young children they had a fondness for one another, Damian often being teased for having a "crush" on Evalina. But as life would have it Evalina moved away to Canada, and continued her childhood and transition into adulthood there. Years later the two reunited when Evalina took a trip to Costa Rica, where Damian was now living. The sparks flickered and quickly turned into a committed relationship. 

The couple decided to have their wedding in their hometown where they first met, surrounded by many people from the community that have known them since they were young kids. The wedding took place at Mettabee Farm, under a beautiful willow tree. The reception was held in the barns beautiful event space. 

The ceremony started with rituals from Ecuador, honoring Damian's background. A conch horn was blown and Damian's father, David, played on a flute as the bride and groom descended from two separate hills each on horseback, adjoining together just before reaching the ceremony space. For the ceremony, the officiant requested that he not be photographed. This was a new challenge for me, but I think the photos turned out beautifully. 

The reception felt so cozy with overhead bistro lights and wood paneled walls of the venue. Friends and family shared a meal together as well as stories about the newlyweds. Performances were given by a local juggling troupe, as well as a few other talented guests.
A fun wedding game from Canada was played by the couple, which revealed some funny truths about each of them. Then Damian and Evalina shared their first dance as husband and wife, sneaking in a few salsa dance moves at the end of the song. After dinner the newlyweds cut into a beautiful "birch tree" wedding cake, which was made by Damian's sister, Ana.

Photography and Videography: Bella Luz Imagery
Venue: Mettabee Farm
Band: Andes Manta
​Cake: Ana Gallardo

Lauren and Dave married one another with their toes in the sand at Dune Beach in South Hampton. They were surrounded by a great group of friends and family, all of whom were so excited for this couple to be marrying one another. Dave's family owns a beautiful house in the Hampton's, so it made sense for the wedding to be at this breath taking location. Lauren grew up in Hawaii and tastefully incorporated a few details into the wedding that represented the culture of her island upbringing. 

Lauren prepared for her wedding day at a nearby house with her immediate family. She looked absolutely stunning, and in the words of my 7-year old daughter, who peeked over my shoulder while I was editing these photos, "she is the most beautiful bride I have ever photographed." Lauren wore a stunning two-piece lace dress, perfectly paired with shark tooth earrings that she designed herself. 

Lauren arrived to her in-laws house where she was crowned for her first look with Dave. She met him out in the lawn, near the vineyard, and placed a Hawaiian lei on him. 

The reception was held at The Spur, a restored warehouse with rustic charm. The venue boasts a working elevator from the early 1900's which is a very cool feature for guests to enjoy. Surf boards were hanging on the ceiling beams, while beautiful roses and succulents adorned the tables. Lauren and Dave shared their first dance as husband and wife, and then speeches were given. Next guests enjoyed a delicious steak and lobster meal before heading downstairs for dancing. 

Photography: Bella Luz Imagery
Venue: The Spur
Makeup: Richard Grandinetti

Lani and Gregg were so much fun! They had such a great vision for their wedding day and the theme was all tied together perfectly. The wedding was held at Gedney Farm, a beautiful venue located in Berkshire Massachusetts. The couple love to travel and love a good adventure and that was evident in their wedding day decor. The teardrop, featured in the photo above, was taken on the road for many months as the couple visited national parks throughout the United States. 

For Lani and Gregg's photos they knew they wanted something artistic to match their style and personality. So I was able to capture really interesting depth of field images using the "free lensing" technique. 

Lani and her mother are florists and have provided flowers for many Berkshire weddings over the years. But wanting to be able to actually enjoy the wedding and not work it she had good friends Sandy and Carey of Stems Flower Design bring her flower vision to life. The ceremony flowers were out of this world, and the rest of the flowers were just as beautiful! Lani's antler headpiece goes to show just how fun and funky she is. 

Guests were greeted upon arrival with a welcome champagne flute. From the main barn area of Gedney Farm they followed the pinwheel pathway up the hill to the ceremony area. A beautiful vine wreath hung from a tree branch and awaited the couple. It was decorated beautifully with flowers and antlers. Gregg played the ukulele as Lani was escorted down the aisle. 

Cocktail hour was held outdoors in the garden adjacent to the barn. Friends and family enjoyed passed hors d'oeuvres and had fun in the teardrop photo booth. 

For the reception the party was moved indoors, inside the barn. Round tables were set below the high ceiling barn, with string lights hung between the large wooden beams. There were so many personal touches that the couple had worked on for months prior. To name a few, the handmade shell flowers and mini photo albums of natural hearts found on their travels at each place setting. 

Photo and Video: Bella Luz Imagery
Venue: Gedney Farm
Florist: Stem Flower Design
Officiant: Brielle Collings
Lighting: Gillooly & Co. Design
Hair: Jaylynn Salon and Spa
Makeup: Anna Maziero
Caterer: Gedney Farm
Cake: Gedney Farm
Dress Alterations: 5 cents a dance

Sam and Rachel held a beautiful wedding at Clermont Historic State Site in upstate New York. The wedding ceremony was held on a grassy knoll overlooking the Hudson River. A beautiful arch adorned with pastel pink and white flowers awaited the sweet couple.
After the ceremony dinner and dancing were held on the grounds in a tent. Complimentary tours of the Clermont House were offered to all the guests as well. It was such a beautiful day for a wedding and we are honored to have been there to document it. 

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Videography: Bella Luz Imagery
Venue: Clermont Historic State Site

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