Danielle and Brando were one of my first 2023 couples, and from the very beginning I could envision the day they had planned for their wedding. Their venue is tucked away in the rolling hills of Sussex County, with the Conservatory serving as a modern, yet organic venue.

My first meeting with my couples is often their engagement session. I love hearing from my couples, and often get to know them well over the phone, but it’s not until the engagement session that I really learn more about my couple and who they are together. Danielle and Brando created quite a unique set-up for their session. Danielle had planned, in advance, a bunch of fun indoor activities that one might catch them doing together on a cozy weekend in – brunch for two, baking cookies, lounging with a good book, games galore, and we cannot forget the record playing the Beetles in the background. The session was fun, unique and so Danielle and Brando.

Fast forward to their wedding day, and the reminiscent scene of comfort and fun carried into their wedding day. Sentimental accents, like Brando’s favorite color, making a splash as his tuxedo jacket, Danielle’s mirrors and the pictures around the house of Danielle in her first holy communion dress and also one of her as a flower girl. She even used these images as a screen for her “reveal” with her Dad on the front porch of the home where she was raised. At cocktail hour, each table held games and activities for their guests to enjoy. Many of these activities captivated their family and friends all through reception as well! And of course, the record player guestbook. Each guest was asked to sign one of their favorite records!

When I first arrived at Danielle’s childhood home, the bridesmaids were busily creating their own bouquets at Danielle’s “bouquet bar,” the first activity of the day! Each bouquet was unique and perfectly tied into the theme of the wedding day.

Once we arrived at the Sussex County Fairgrounds, we found ourselves tucked into a perfectly manicured courtyard with “vignettes” of foliage and gardens surrounding the open area. This is exactly how Danielle described the scene for me, and it’s the perfect description! We chose one of the little gardens tucked away for Danielle and Brando’s first look, and then gave the two of them a few moments together to read their vows in private. I love this moment for them, it’s intimate and quiet, and starts off the day with the promises of forever before celebrating with family and friends.

One of Brando’s groomsmen married Danielle and Brando in the center of the courtyard. To make the union their own, they included a tree planting ceremony, and after exchanging rings, they were pronounced husband and wife!

A few married portraits in, and off to play games, eat great food, courtesy of Willow & Sage, and tear up the dance floor. We said our goodbyes with the lull of cake cutting, and then Danielle and Brando danced the night away.

Congratulations, newlyweds! We loved being part of your journey and wedding day! I see a future full of fun and games forever!

Venue | The Conservatory at Sussex County Fairgrounds

Photographer | Lauren Kearns Photography

Videographer | Tone Media

Caterer | Willow & Sage Catering

Hair | Pin it Up & Pout

Makeup | Christina Trotta Co.

Engagement Ring | Aires Jewelers

Flowers | Created by Bride & bridesmaids

Invitation | Truly Engaging

Wedding Dress | Allure Bridal Kleinfeld

Bridesmaid Dresses | Azazie

Groom/Groomsmen Attire | Tuxedo by Sarno

Entertainment | POSH DJS/ Eric Torres