It feels like forever ago that Rachael and Steve booked me for their intimate wedding at the Bykenhullehouse bed and breakfast in NY. All I remembered from their engagement session was that I really liked them, and the moment I saw and hugged Rachael, I was immediately reminded of why. She is just a super-sweet and easy going girl, and Steve is one of the most kind and respectful guys I’ve had the privilege of working with.

The little bed and breakfast where these two planned their special day could not have been a more perfect choice. I loved Rachael’s taste in everything, from the flower in her hair to the shoes on her feet. I was eager to start capturing these lovely details and took out my brand spanking new macro lens and placed it on a chair while I took my other lens off. My new macro then proceeded to roll off the chair and onto the hardwood floor. It landed with a crash. Thank gosh it miraculously survived with just a scuff or I would never have gotten these images!

Rachael didn’t have any bridesmaids and other women from the family had yet to arrive. We started taking pictures of her putting on her dress and soon realized that there was no one there to lace her up except yours truly. Of course I went and missed a loop so the whole process took about twice as long as it should have! Fortunately, I was able to redeem myself later by doing a stellar job of pinning the boutonniere on the groom. The picture at the end of this set is from when Rachael was figuring out where it goes ?

We then took a couple quick bride-and-groom portraits before heading out to do the couple shots, which I’ll post in traditional order after the ceremony photos.

The ceremony was beautiful and close friends and family stood up and said a few words. It was wonderful to hear them speak and get to know the couple through the eyes of those who know them best.

After the ceremony, the appropriate embarrassing speech was given and everyone toasted to the new man and wife. It’s very rare that I choose to use selective coloring on images, but every once in a while I get a request for it or there is an image I think it would work exceptionally well with.

Earlier, Rachael, Steve and I took a walk around the Bykenhullehouse grounds to take B&G portraits. Rachael actually encouraged me to pull her and Steve away if I saw any shot opportunities throughout the rest of the day as well. Having photography so high on this couple’s priority list, made my job exceptionally easy.

With no first dances, cake cutting or bouquet tossed planned, the rest of the day’s agenda consisted of eating, drinking and being married!

I did take advantage of Rachael’s offer to pull her aside when I saw this 3-way mirror and we slipped in another quicky bridal portrait.

The reception was inside/outside, but as the weather cooled down a bit the outdoor congregation livened up some.

To Rachael and Steve, it was my extreme pleasure to be part of such a special day for the two of you. I felt like a guest and received a very warm welcome from your family and friends. You are both such beautiful and kind people, I wish you all the best in your marriage and life.