Chelsea and David
I met Chelsea and David about a year ago when I photographed them on the Brooklyn Bridge. Even then, I noticed their cheerful nature and passion for life. Ever since we last saw each other, I was really looking forward to their wedding. They planned to have it in winter in New Jersey.
I don’t know why, but I always look forward to going over the big blue puddle that separates us …
I love spending the whole day walking around New York. The city feels like a giant theatre where all cultures of the world give their best performances round the clock …The wedding took place an hour’s drive out of the city in New Jersey…We had dinner the day before, where I had the opportunity to get to know these wonderful people. They all came together as one big family. What moved me the most was the strong connection between different generations and their mutual respect. And the sparkles, the sparkles in her eyes… from a seven-year-old to the grandfather in his 90’s. Sparks and optimism. There was plenty of that going around and you can feel it all in the story.Chelsea was getting ready with her bridesmaids at her house near the Ryland Inn, and when I saw her dress, I knew it was a lucky day for me as a photographer.
The boys looked like real models in their ever-modern classic suits. All in all, there were moments when it felt like I was a part of a great move.There was a traditional church ceremony and I drove there with the bride and her father in an old Bentley… The wedding ceremony lasted less than an hour and it was laid-back, full of laughter and emotions.After church, I just couldn’t wait to get back to the estate because we were really lucky with the weather and the sun was urging us to start the photo shoot. The late winter sun with its warm rays, casting strong shadows couldn’t have come in a better time and I enjoyed every minute of this shoot. The couple helped me get great shots with their high spirits and flare so that in the end we got the best out of the moment.
After the sunset, we moved to the beautiful estate hall where everything was ready to entertain about 250 guests. There was a band and it was out-of-this-world good. They played everything and it felt as if they were part of a private concert. Everybody was dancing, the old, the young; I even caught a moment when a smiling waitress got a lady who was sitting alone to dance with her… they were dancing with the rest of the crowd, who were tirelessly cutting the rug and enjoying this crazy wedding party.I am grateful for the hundreds of hugs at this remarkable wedding and the hundreds of beautiful thoughts you whispered in my ear. Even though I was exhausted from all the excitement and the day’s work, I fell onto my bed with a big smile on my face. Thank you Chelsea and David for sharing your day with me!
