It’s been a long time since I’ve had the privilege to photograph a small, intimate wedding at Ninety Acres! It’s how I got my start in weddings when I started my own business almost 10 years ago! They are so near and dear to my heart, least of the reasons being that my own wedding was small and intimate. There’s something so special about a dinner with your closest family and friends to celebrate the new union!

We arrived at Ninety Acres early Saturday morning for Lori & Bruce’s mid-morning ceremony. Lori was so nervous, but could not keep from smiling as she laid out all of her details for me to photograph. With Lori’s details came sentiment and memories of those past, who would be with her during this special day. Her hairpiece was made up of a necklace that once belonged to her Grandmother. Her bracelet was her Mother’s. Within the hem of her dress was her Father’s military patch. Each detail held meaning and brought these loved ones close to Lori and Bruce on the day they would become husband and wife. Their memories were brought even closer during the ceremony! The first three seats closest to the aisle and front of the ceremony were reserved for Lori’s parents and Bruce’s Father. I teared up myself when I saw them and read the inscription “celebrating with us in Heaven.”

Before walking down the aisle, Bruce and Lori had a bird’s eye view from Ninety Acres Member’s Lounge as they watched their guests enter and head to the ceremony. They had decided to have a first look, so were together as they waited for their ceremony to begin.

Lori and Bruce wrote their own vows, keeping them brief, but full of intent and only the most important of promises, including Lori’s promise to make Bruce lima beans, even though she hates them.

When we rounded up family and friends for portraits, there was laughter everywhere. The joy of the guests for their dear friends was so evident. Once they had their picture taken, they didn’t return to cocktail hour. They stayed, watched and enjoyed every moment with one another.

At the end of Lori and Bruce’s first dance as husband and wife, Lori turned to me and said “I know you’re making wonderful memories for us.”

Thank you Lori and Bruce for giving us the opportunity to make memories for you and enjoy your beautiful wedding day! We hope Puerto Rico is bringing you lots of relaxation and sunshine! Thank you Maggie Divirgilio for being an amazing assistant!

Photographers: Lauren Kearns & Maggie Divirgilio

Venue: Ninety Acres Restaurant, Peapack, NJ

Hair/Makeup: Kristen, Beauty on Location NJ

Wedding Dress: Anne Barge, Elizabeth Johns

Engagement Ring: Graff NYC

Florist: Laura Clare

Groom’s Attire: Tuxedo by Sarno

Invitations: Shine Invitations/Etsy

Transportation: MyLimo

DJ: Infinity Entertainment