On what truly felt like the coldest and rainiest day of 2013, two of my favorite clients held hands, looked into one another’s eyes, and said “I do.” From Danelle wearing the same shoes her mother wore on her wedding day, to the lace from her grandmother’s dress that wrapped around her bouquet, tradition and love for family was intertwined into every moment of their day.  Danelle and Nick were married in a Catholic ceremony at Prince of Peace Catholic Church and celebrated the night away at Rosewood Hall. My trusted friend Emma, of Emily Dean Photography, second shot with me and my new favorite addition to the team, Nikesha Fantroy of Pink House Photography, assisted.

I may or may not be obsessed with Danelle’s bouquet. Mandy of Hothouse Design Studio never, ever fails to blow me away with her vision. What she does with flowers is nothing short of artistry!

Before their first look, a bridesmaid delivered Danelle’s gift to Nick, images from her glamour session, with a hand-written note! Needless to say, he was surprised and pleased with the images.

Danelle and Nick had an amazing reception. They incorporated many traditions of Nick’s Palestinian family, including a number of dances. My favorite was the candle dance, also known as tijlay el arous, where all the females in attendance created a circle and each took a turn dancing with swaying side-to-side with Danelle while holding a candle, until passing that candle off to the next female.  The dance represents all the woman who love and support her, lighting her new path.

Danelle cried, as she danced with her father, as her siblings and mother looked on.. sharing their tears. It was a moment that spoke volumes in meaning.

VENDORS:

Floral and Design:  Hothouse Design Studio // Catering: Iz Catering  // Reception Venue:  Rosewood Hall  //  Cake:  Wedding Cakes by Jan  // Wedding Gown:  Ivory & White // Bridesmaid Dresses: Bridesmaids, Inc.  // Lighting:  Design Productions, LLC