Do New Yorkers have more style? In a word. Yes. As soon as you see Mark’s tux you’ll see what I’m talking about. Best. Dressed. Groom. Ever. I wasn’t kidding, Mark and now the world knows! Mark + Emily wanted something different for Mark and their Oakhurst Golf and Country Club wedding. Their final choice was perfect. I first met Mark + Emily in a fleeting moment while they were guests at THIS wedding. When I later had the chance to really meet them, Emily and I both proudly entered the coffee shop in leopard flats. I was their first stop on their way from the airport and they both were wearing ‘real clothes’. I tend to overdress and travel, even the flight, is no exception so I knew these were my people! They had all of their wedding day details ironed out and kink free but they were also so laid back, fun-loving and down to earth. I’m a hugger but when you are greeted by Mark and/or Emily you know they mean it when they hug you.

Moments before Emily got dressed, her mom asked her to look at her wedding dress. It only took a moment before things began to seem very real. Tears began to build and Emily clutched her chest, closed her eyes and took a deep breath. I saw Mark on my way in with his beaming mega-watt smile in high spirits. I didn’t see Mark again until their first look, still wearing that mega-watt smile. As Emily approached, his eyes feel closed and when he opened them he was completely overwhelmed by the stunning sight of Emily. It makes my heart so full when two people feel so deeply for each other that their emotions become so powerful they just can’t be contained. We did their portraits in the midst of the tall pine trees as amazing light wrapped around them and the wind grabbed hold of Emily’s hair, her dress and the ribbons on her ah-mazing bouquet. But not before they had a few minutes with Winnie! Winston is their french bulldog that they are both so completely smitten with. Oakhurst is quickly becoming one of my favorite wedding venues. The grounds are so beautiful and the coordinator, Regina and the rest of the Oakhurst staff are amazing to work with.

Even though they had already seen each other before the ceremony, their emotions still ran high. Mark, Emily and Emily’s dad were all fighting back tears of joy. The ceremony was performed by a friend that has known Emily a long time and added such a personal touch that made the ceremony even more beautiful and funny. Tears were shed. Vows were read. They kissed and were married. The atmosphere for family formals was light and fun. It’s no surprise that Emily and Mark would be so closely surrounded by those who have the same zest for life, yet don’t take themselves too seriously. My tagline, since 2008, has been ‘Real life. Real moments. Real memories.’ It seems a little cliche’ at times. But, I never really considered the impact my images would have in people’s lives. In the end, they all do become someone’s memories. ‘We take photos as a return ticket to a time otherwise gone.’ Mark and Emily, may this day, these moments and these memories always be a reminder of the happiness you felt and shared with each other and those who love you most.

To view more stunning images from Oakhurst Golf and Country Club, CLICK HERE!