Michelle & Spencer {NJ Winter Wedding at The Palace at Somerset Park}

A Winter Wedding

Could 2018 start out any better? Michelle and Spencer’s winter wedding was as magical as I could have hoped, and more so. From the moment I walked into the Bridal Suite, I knew that the day was going to be perfect, no matter what happened. Michelle was relaxed and completely ready. She had her cute little “Bride” robe on and was sipping champagne.

Was there rain outside? Yes. A lot of it. It didn’t matter at all. Barb and I took a quick walk around the Palace at Somerset Park to find some options for their first look and showed her the options (with the lovely Barb as my model) to give her choices.

Usually, I love to shoot outdoors. Whenever possible, actually! However, I knew that February could bring some pretty intense weather conditions, so wasn’t betting on taking too many outdoor pictures. The architecture inside The Palace is so beautiful and intricate, that I was happy to set up some strobes and make the light fit the location. Michelle chose the location by the front chandelier and once the two of them saw each other, we simply faded away for the rest of the day. And I mean that in the best way possible!

Just as the ceremony began, as Michelle descended the stairwell, it was as if Spencer had never seen her before and there wasn’t a dry eye around. From Michelle’s brother’s tears of joy to a good friend marrying them, to the couple’s hand-written vows, it was a truly touching wedding ceremony.

During cocktail hour, Michelle and Spencer snuck into the ballroom to practice their dance, I don’t even know if they saw us taking their pictures!

Michelle and Spencer thanked their guests before toasts began, and toasted Michelle’s parents who will celebrate their anniversary this month as well. They thanked them for being such wonderful role models and showing them what a successful marriage looks like, and I must admit, I was getting a little teary-eyed!

As soon as the music started, the married couple danced, and danced, and did not leave the dance floor, unless you count Spencer being tossed over the crowd! Check out Barb’s amazing shot of Spencer being hoisted up! Before we said farewell, we caught a quick photo with their cake and they quickly headed back to dance the night away.

Thank you Michelle and Spencer for making us such a special part of your wedding day. Thanks, Barb for your awesome angles and lighting mastery!