Mike & Jessica, a Destination Wedding!

It's amazing to me that, of all the "jobs" I had growing up, and of all the jobs I could be doing today, someone out there was interested in traveling from Saint Louis to New York to get married, and chose me to come along just to photograph the blessed day. I truly must have the greatest job on earth. Please know that this isn't meant to come off as boastful, but rather it's my best attempt at being thankful and humble (I lack the literary skill to be a good writer, which is perhaps why I went into art).

Jessica & Mike were so incredibly considerate, and their families too, that I often felt like their guest. Nevertheless, I prefer to serve rather than being served, which is perhaps why I enjoy wedding photography so much. I could not contain my excitement regarding the opportunity to photograph their NYC wedding. My only regret is that we didn’t spend an entire day dedicated to photographing around the city. No ceremony or reception, just a day of shooting (I would have walked until my feet fell off if given the opportunity). Here's some images from the rehearsal, followed by dinner at Il Vagabondo.



On the wedding day, Jessica and the girls did morning hair appointments at Bloom Hair & Nail Spa.

Here’s Mike & Jessica’s first sighting at their hotel, Courtyard by Marriott on the Upper East Side.

The Occupy Wall Street group did cause us some concern, and there was a short amount of time, so plans to shoot at Brooklyn Bridge were abandoned in favor of locations that were closer and more significant to the bride and groom.

The nuptials took place at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Yorkville, followed by a dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of New York.

It’s still so surreal to me. I wish I could repeat their wedding at least a few times a year. So if you’re an engaged bride or groom, and thinking of traveling, bring me along :) Here’s what Jessica had to say after seeing the images.

“Thank you so so much for everything!!! I know it was a lot in two days and I hope that you'll be able to stand one more night with us- haha.

I just took a look at the gallery and they are so amazing!!!! I can't believe we have so many pictures to choose from- it's awesome!!! They look so good!!! There are so many really cool shots- you did such a good job.

We're so happy that you were our photographer- not only do the pictures rock but everyone kept saying how much they love you. Even when we were waiting for the plane, everyone kept saying how much they liked you and what a good job you did. All of my other friends hated their photographers (and some even their pictures) but I love everything!!!”

Jessica left me speechless with her testimony. With the prints, frames, albums or whatever they end up ordering, I hope to return the favor.

Keep Smiling,
Joseph