I had such fun recently shooting Mei and Kent’s engagement photos at Grounds For Sculpture (GFS) in Hamilton, NJ, that I went against my usual recommendations, and actually encouraged Mei and Kent to use the location again for their wedding photos. Mei ended up being unable to reschedule her hair and makeup appointment so we were forced to “settle” for the nearest location to their Nassau Inn reception venue.

Well, suffice it to say, this past Saturday was proof that the photographer doesn’t always know best! Mei and Kent had of course scouted the new location in advance and made a very informed decision on using it over GFS a second time. Needless to say I’m very excited to share this couples’ reception-only wedding celebration, including those images taken at the iconic Princeton University, the beauty of which I’m now SHOCKED I ever could have doubted!

Although “getting ready photos” were not on the original agenda, Mei’s stylist ran a little late finishing up, and I was surprised at how quickly I was able to pull these few shots during just the finishing touches.

Next was a quicky bridal portrait and Kent’s adoring face as he saw Mei in her wedding dress for the first time.

We then headed over to the university, where I was just plain giddy surrounded by such a beautiful location, AND an even more beautiful couple to work with!

A big thanks to Mike Paulie, too, for his amazing work second shooting this wedding with me and capturing a couple of these next few shots!

Since the couple had their actual wedding ceremony about a month prior, the day went straight into group formals and the cocktail hour.

I thought the details of the reception were exceptionally well done, as each centerpiece was completely unique, but entirely complimentary to the others. Here are a few!

Mei and Kent’s also had an interesting first dance, as they danced the first minute or so alone and then invited everyone else to join in.

The company was very friendly and the speeches particularly witty. I especially enjoyed Kent’s speech about the first time he met Mei and thought he’d struck out after losing a bet that he couldn’t go just a few minutes without talking.

It’s was wonderful to see the couple and their guests mostly just sitting back, enjoying each others’ company and celebrating this very special couple.

If there is one thing I’ve learned about Mei and Kent through working with them, it’s that as beautiful as they are on the outside, they are even more beautiful on the inside. From staying with me at GFS the night of their e-session after I lost my keys, to being nothing but completely understanding and supportive at news of the tragic event that held up this initial blog, I could not be more grateful and wish them the very best in what I’m sure will be many more years of happy marriage to come!