FIDDLER’S ELBOW COUNTRY CLUB WEDDING | Alison & Jonathan

Weddings

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October 3, 2019

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bride twirling in golden hour light at new jersey estate venueLove, Light & Laughter filled Wedding Day

I met Alison and Jonathan for the first time only a few short weeks ago! I knew I loved them from the moment I recommended a sunrise engagement session for the amazing light, and they said yes without any hesitation! Not only did they arrive cheerfully on that early (5:45am) August morning, but they were energetic enough to climb the hill in Natirar Park with two bottles of champagne in tow. I asked if they were “morning people” and they said “not really.” Could have fooled me!

When it came time to finalize their wedding day schedule, Alison was just as ambitious for great pictures, no matter what! Music to my ears! Alison and Jonathan started their day off at Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club, getting ready on either side of the upstairs rooms, while I planted myself somewhere in between for some great window light for details. This is one of my favorite times of the day. Where I can hear the little conversations in the background and the laughter from the bridesmaids. But it wasn’t only the bridesmaids giggling. Because I was smack in the middle of both getting ready areas, I could hear Jonathan’s “giggle” loud and clear as well, and it was definitely a preview of the day ahead.

By the time we got Alison in her dress, veil in hair, and bouquet in hand, I had already had my fair share of laughter. Alison is one of the funniest brides I know. While I typically take on the responsibility of keeping the day light and full of laughter, I will happily take a backseat to a comedian bride!

Before heading to see Jonathan for their first look, Alison came down the spiral staircase so her Dad could see his little girl for the first time as a bride! It was a sweet moment, again mixed with hilarity, as Alison’s veil got stuck on the carpet lining the staircase. With wedding planner, Mandy Mondoro to the rescue, Alison was once again elegantly escorted down the stair. When she met her parents at the bottom, she handed them both cards she had ready for them. After choking back tears and giving lots of hugs, they led her to the back of Fiddler’s Elbow where Jonathan was waiting.

I won’t spoil the first look for you. Scroll down and see! I’m going to jump ahead to the wedding party and family portraits. We did all of these pictures before heading to the church so that as soon as they arrived back at Fiddler’s Elbow, they were free to enjoy cocktail hour and catch up with family and friends.

During family portraits, Jonathan handed his Mom (Mum, they’re English) a gift, which she opened, and brought us all to tears. I hate to admit that my eyes watered for a moment when I read the inscription on the porcelain case. There is something about a mother/son relationship that can’t be put into words.

After Jonathan and Alison’s ceremony at their hometown church in Bernardsville, we all headed back to cocktail hour. The most amazing display awaited us in the ballroom inside, and the most amazing sunset awaited us on the outside. Both of these moments are best summed up in photographs. You will have to scroll a long time to find them, because of all of the wonderful moments in between. What I do want to explain is the framed picture at the bar with a screenshot of a message from Jonathan to Alison. He asked her what her plans were for New Year’s Eve, as he said “I just went for it,” and three months later they met. I’m so glad they did too.

Alison and Jonathan, you are absolutely perfect together! You and your families are amazing and we enjoyed every moment of your wedding day! A special thanks to Barbara Wentzel and Maggie DiVirgilio for your awesome assistance all day long!

Photographer: Lauren Kearns Photography and Barbara Wentzel

Venue: Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club,  Bedminster, NJ

Ceremony: Lady of Perpetual Help, Bernardsville, NJ

Wedding Planner: Mandy Mondoro

Hair: Manes by Mia

Makeup: House of Luciano

Florist: Peonies to Paintchips

Transportation: Riviera Transportation 

Videographer: Well Spun Weddings

Band: Hank Lane Music

Love, Light & Laughter filled Wedding Day I met Alison and Jonathan for the first time only a few short weeks ago! I knew I loved them from the moment I recommended a sunrise engagement session for the amazing light, and they said yes without any hesitation! Not only did they arrive cheerfully on that […]

Weddings

FIDDLER’S ELBOW COUNTRY CLUB WEDDING | Alison & Jonathan

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