Well Wed in the Hamptons

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One of the great things about these shows is the opportunity to chat with other great vendors.  Here are a few that I came in contact with:

Food for Forks
– the hors d’ oeuvres passed around by Food for Forks were some of the best bites I’ve had in a long time. They catered a wedding I shot in Cutchogue, NY on the North Fork back in September and the food was equally as delicious.  I can’t recommend them any more highly!

NYFF Events
- NYFF provided the live music entertainment for almost the entire show.  Having come from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, I appreciated the smooth Caribbean sounds coming from the band stand.  I remember telling my assistant that I thought I was standing on the deck of a cruise ship!

Sperry Tents
I never thought I would come to the day where I thought a tent looked beautiful.  My display was right next to Sperry Tents so I got to see their entire slideshow of event tents several times over.  They really do have nice looking tents— inside and out!

Kim Jon Design
On the other side of my display was a wonderful table mockup and floral display by Kim Jon Design.  Their arrangement was fresh, inviting, and all the elements complemented each other so well.

230 Elm
230 Elm, formerly known as Hampton Hall, hosted the event.  Their staff was awesome and made everyone feel at home.  The great thing about this space is that it’s basically a blank canvas.  You can really create the vibe of the wedding by bringing your own personal touches.

Bedell Cellars
Having shot here myself, I can say that it’s really a photographer’s playground.  Long flowing vines, vintage cars, open fields, quaint cottages, expansive reception area… many many opportunities to take great pictures.  Oh, and it’s also a great place for a wedding!  :-).

Brockneck Hall
A new comer to the wedding scene in the Hamptons, Brockneck Hall is a gorgeous space to throw a party.  Constructed in 1858 and restored in 2009, the estate is elegant and refined.

Twist Fresh Events
Fun, fresh, easy to work with event planners.  Very nice people.

Sugar Sugar
Beautiful and varied cakes made by the very friendly Ilona and Susan.

Do check out the Wedding Affair website for more vendors– these are just a few that I had the opportunity of mingling with.

One final thumbs up goes to Love Lane Kitchen in Mattituck, NY. When you’re driving through the sun soaked countryside and it’s time for lunch, or any meal, you have to stop in Love Lane Kitchen.  The highly hospitable people at Macari Vineyards recommended Love Lane to me and it was a delightful experience.  They roast their own coffee beans twice a week, scenting the block with java.  Their homemade creations utilizing local ingredients coupled with friendly service will put you in a really good mood.  Do check it out while planning your Long Island affair!

Wear something comfortable!
Yes, you want to look your best in the photos but it’s easier to look comfortable when you feel comfortable!  Pretend that you’re going on a romantic picnic in the park as a first date.  You’ll look nice, but you’ll also wear something you’re comfortable in sitting on the ground or leaning up against a tree.  Not only will you look great but we’ll have flexibility to try different poses and interact with our location.  In general, solids work better than prints and while you don’t have to wear the same color- complimentary colors works out very nicely.

Pick a familiar location!
Choosing a location of meaning to you can bring forward some really sweet moments.  These are the kinds of things photographers love!  Sure we can arrange you in a pleasing way but it’s the connection between our bride and groom to be that seals the deal.  As fun as the sessions always end up being… going somewhere familiar can also take away some of the pre-session nerves.  This couple went on their first date in Brooklyn so that’s where we went!

Dont forget your hands!
A simple kiss can be very romantic but placement of the hands sends the message that these people really mean it!  Many people want a few pictures with a kiss so I’d say– practice at home a few times!  It’s kind of funny because as soon as I ask a couple to embrace each other a bit more during a kiss, they never want to stop!  Don’t think about it too much… imagine that your partner just got off the plane from a long trip.  How would you greet him/her?

No idea is too silly!
A lot of couples ask me- “would it be stupid if…”.  No!  Nothing is stupid.  And a lot of times, if the original idea flops, the reaction to it is a great moment to photograph.  At the end of the day you should just focus on having a great time and connecting with your squeeze.  Speaking of squeeze..

Taxi on Central Park West in New York City after Winter Storm