YellowBird Wedding

Congratulations Tara & Jess!!!

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July 29, 2016

You don’t need a giant hall to have a beautiful and complete wedding. You can have a small cabin on a small lake and have all the beauty you could ever hope for. That’s what Tara & Jess knew on July 15th at the Commissioner’s Cabin in Chestnut Ridge. It was a beautiful, sunny day, and it felt absolutely perfect for their friends to gathered around this small cabin, with kids running in and out, sharing in a moment that was completely comfortable and something to behold. Jess was there greeting guests and keeping things organized before Tara showed up. You could tell she wanted everything to be perfect, but was also just having a blast with her friends. Everyone was so happy! You could tell there wasn’t anyone there who would want to be anywhere else. Perhaps they would have requested a little more shade, but all in all, it was ideal. We were told Tara would be pulling up in a moment, so everyone took their spots under the sunshine in anticipation. But as the minutes ticked by, Jess began to worry. Can the limo fit up the winding path? Are guests going to sweat to death? Where the heck are the boutineers?! I have to say, it’s really amusing watching brides and grooms in these moments because I already know everything is going to work out fine, but seeing their worry which is fueled only by love, is adorable. Soon enough, the limo came around the road and Tara and her bridesmaids stepped out. She looked absolutely beautiful, and Jess, who had been looking at Tara since junior high, looked like she was seeing her for the first time. They forgot about the heat and said their vows and fell into each others arms when they were finally pronounced. It looked like some guests couldn’t have been happier if they were at their own wedding! Congratulations Jess and Tara. You’ve always known you were meant for each other, and now you’re bound for life. What a happy feeling for such a happy, loving couple. All the best.

Congratulations Jennifer & Mark!!!

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July 27, 2016

Most people usually dread Monday’s and find them boring. But if you were friends with Jennifer and Mark on July 11th, you had a fantastic Monday! You got to spend it at the Radisson Hotel in Grand Island witnessing a beautiful moment between two people who love each other unconditionally. For Jennifer and Mark, it was only a matter of time before they made it official, and a Monday afternoon seemed as good as any to finally join their family together as one. It was a very intimate affair, with only their close friends and family, as well as Jennifer’s kids (and Mark’s new step-kids!) and a waterfront view that made it a perfect moment. Jennifer and Mark feel so much for each other, and they let the moment of their vows be the time to tell each other everything that is inside them. So it was no surprise when it came time for vows and Mark pulled out 5 pieces of paper, covered from top to bottom in typed words! He told Jennifer a bit of a story, about someone falling in love, and then went into his vows for her. Her vows were a tiny bit shorter (maybe 4 pages) and it became clear that their feelings for each other were intense and mutual. They had all the kids gather with them for their sand ceremony, and they took their time combing all the different color sands to symbolize how connected they all were, and how just like the sand, they could never be separated again. Looking into the audience, I could tell that guests were very moved by this act, and were so happy to finally see it take place. After that, I could tell they were very eager for that first kiss, so I didn’t make them wait any longer! Congratulations Mark and Jennifer! It’s been a long and winding road for the two of you, but you made it to this moment, and now, everything will be a lovely breeze. Best wishes for a happy life together!

Congratulations Mateja & Zachary!!!

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July 20, 2016

What an amazing weekend. I was able to drive all over Western New York, discovering more and more beautiful spots to be married. On July 9th, it became hard to imagine topping this one! At Letchworth State Park, Mateja and Zachary prepared themselves to be married in front of an amazing waterfall, on an amazing day, sharing an amazing experience. Can you tell how I felt about it?! It really was stunning out and I caught up with Zachary just in time to hear his friends teasing him about this moment, considering it took almost 10 years for them to get there! It was all in good fun though, and you could tell that guests were happy to be there and awed by their surroundings. I know I was! Mateja was finishing getting ready, but was a beam of light when I saw her. Not only did she look beautiful, but she was so happy and positive, you didn’t have to know her to be moved by her. Once I knew my couple was eager to begin, we had guests start to take their seats so the real event could happen…even though that waterfall was an event all itself! Zachary had a touch of the nerves and I know he was thinking about his vows a lot and how much he didn’t want to mess them up. Well no worries there because when the time came, everything was perfect and they both looked at each other smiling as they vowed to love and take care of one another for all time. It really felt like a carefree moment because they are so comfortable with each other, and I think confessing to each other about how they feel isn’t anything new for them. They seemed pretty comfortable when it was time for that kiss too! Congratulations Zachary and Mateja! I’m so happy that your journey finally brought you here and that you have so much happy life left together. Best wishes!

Congratulations Sharon & Emerson!!!

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July 18, 2016

Sometimes you don’t need a big day to have a big moment. And that was the case on July 8th when Sharon and Emerson decided to drive to the amazing Seneca Lake State Park in Geneva to have their big moment with just two of their close friends. They knew that they wanted to be surrounded by beauty, and pretty much after that they just wanted to be surrounded by each other. We met near a sparkling lake, under an old and well worn tree, and Sharon and Emerson took hands and looked into one another’s eyes. I’m pretty sure that even if there had been 100 people there, they wouldn’t have noticed anyone but themselves. And although it had rained earlier in the day, and only moments before Sharon and Emerson were ready to wed, the rain stopped and the sun peeked out, almost like it was waiting for this moment. They quietly said their vows to one another and smiled as a breeze came off the water rustling between them. It felt like a perfect scene that you only catch in movies, and I was so happy to have been a part of such an intimate moment. Congratulations Emerson and Sharon. If there was a moment that proved simple is beautiful more than this one, I sure haven’t experienced it! Best wishes for a long and happy life.

Congratulations Kayla & Jim!!!

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July 13, 2016

If you’ve never been to Beaver Island State Park in Grand Island, you need to remedy that. It’s a beautiful place to swim, have a picnic, and of course, get married! On July 3rd Kayla and Jim decided just that, after many happy years together and one adorable daughter, they would have their moment in the sunshine. And that they did because it was such a beautiful day full of sunshine. I saw them both immediately when I arrived and honestly, they didn’t look nervous at all. They were already having a good time together and this was just an extra special day for them. I’m pretty sure that’s how they always are. Guests quickly gathered, enjoying the view and excited for this moment to finally be happening. Jim and I made our way to the front and I think he had a hint of nerves sneak up on him. As soon as little Cecilia began her adorable walk up the aisle though, his nerves fell away and he was all smiles for his little lady. Kayla, looking beautiful, joined him shortly after and their little family was complete, as they stood together vowing to continue loving each other and their family as they had been. Of course now it’s a tad bit more special because they are husband and wife! They held hands (and Cecilia) and promised their love in front of friends and family, and I have to admit I had as big a smile as the guests when their kiss finally came. Congratulations Jim and Kayla! I’m so happy you found me and that I was able to witness such a beautiful moment. Best wishes to your family and may your life be filled with only joy!

Congratulations Marion & Matt!!!

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July 8, 2016

Now this is how you do a German wedding! At the Spring Garden in East Aurora, Marion and Matt celebrated their day with beer steins & lederhosen! It was a truly original wedding for a truly original couple. When I first arrived Marion was hiding out with her girls, putting the last minute touches on and waiting for Matt. Guests were gathered around the band watching them play alphorns and looking totally amazed. It was a really fun environment and I was excited for the festivities to begin. We just had to wait for Matt and his groomsmen to get there…which they did…a little bit late. That’s how you know you’re marrying the right woman! When you show up late for your own wedding, and she’s still super excited to marry you! Marion and Matt are very close to their family, and had 5 readings throughout the ceremony, wanting to let anyone who wanted to speak have a moment to share their love. There were even a couple original pieces! It was truly lovely and although when they kiss is my favorite part, I was a little disappointed knowing that the ceremony was over. Luckily, their happy life as husband and wife was just beginning! Congratulations Matt & Marion. I know how happy you already make each other and will continue to do so over the years. Best wishes that those years are long and good.

Congratulations Crystal & David!!!

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July 1, 2016

June 18th was a perfect day for a perfect couple. At Banchetti’s I met with David and his groomsmen as they greeted guests and waited for Crystal and her girls to arrive. David was definitely nervous and it was no secret that’s he’s not crazy about standing in front of a group of people…let alone family…let alone as he declares his love! But he was doing a very good job of holding it together, realizing that it was such a special moment, he could be anxious and excited at the same time! Soon enough Crystal arrived and looked just radiant. I could tell she was also nervous, but very ready to marry David. They are such a good match that I was happy to be the one to join them. After we waited a bit more for guests, I headed up front with David to get this show on the road! Crystal was escorted down, and I could see her nerves kick in. She would look at David, but shyly look back down. I feel like I have a great spot to see all of these authentic reactions. People never know how they are going to feel in the moment. So they held hands and smiled as they lit their candles for their unity candle ceremony, and lovingly embraced when they knew they were husband and wife. Congratulations David & Crystal! It was such a beautiful day and I know there is so much love and happiness in your future. I wish you a lifetime of joy!

Congratulations Rachel & Sean!!!

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June 27, 2016

There are people in this world that as soon as you meet them, you really like them. That’s how I felt when I first met Rachel and Sean, and by the time their wedding came around on June 17th at O’Brien’s Sleepy Hollow, I felt like they were old pals. A super fun loving couple, I loved their story and their relationship, being an odd couple that couldn’t be happier with each other. It was a beautiful day, and I enjoyed waiting around with Sean for the moment to start. Especially when he found out his brother didn’t write a best man speech, but was going to wing it. We were both laughing at what a terrible idea that was, and his brother started to look a little terrified. But Sean is the kind of guy who takes things in stride. He seemed very relaxed and easy going and we headed to the alter to laugh at guests taking pictures with their giant ipads. I really did feel like a buddy of mine was getting married, so I started to get a little nervous! The best part of how calm and relaxed Sean was, is when Rachel began walking towards him. Then the deep breaths and loud exhales began. Nerves creep up on all of us on such a big day. But when Rachel approached him looking beautiful with that smile on her face, his matched hers and they both seemed delighted. They were sort of laughing at each other and I think at what a crazy moment it is. But things were very serious when they each read song lyrics to each other that made them think of the other and their relationship. It was very raw and honest and one of those moments where I was very hit by the moment and how beautiful it was. Sometimes I forget how lucky I am to be a part of such honest and beautiful moments, but I remembered it this Friday. After they kissed, the headed back up to where things were chill again, and celebrated with their first beer as a married couple. Congratulations Sean and Rachel! I really loved being a part of your day and know that you have a full and happy life ahead of you. Best wishes always!

Congratulations Marissa & Billy!!!

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June 16, 2016

Where do you guys find these places?! I’m constantly going to such magical venues for weddings, and I’m forever surprised how people manage to find them. On June 11th I headed to Ventosa Vinyards in Geneva, NY to celebrate the wedding of Marissa & Billy. A super cute couple I had only met online, I was so happy to finally meet them in person. They were even lovelier humans than I had gathered before, and there was no where else I would rather be. I mean, it didn’t hurt that I was at a vineyard, with a gorgeous lake behind me, in the sunshine, and with my BFF photographers Ayres Photography. It was just an all in all amazing day. Windy as all heck, but amazing.
I found Marissa and Billy gathered close together, waiting with their bridal party, hoping that the moment would soon begin. Guests were seating themselves on this giant lawn, looking at the lake and listening to a string quartet play. Soooo, pretty sweet day. When it was time for the couple to have their moment, everyone stood up, beaming at Marissa as she made her way down. She looked stunning and I was so honored to be a part of the moment. They were cutely nervous, some awkward movements and never knowing when to take hands, but those are my favorite moments. So authentic and full of emotion and makes my smile bigger and bigger! After readings and vows, it was kissing time, and they didn’t waste the moment! Congratulations Billy and Marissa. You’re such a wonderful couple and I am so happy that I got to spend such a special moment with you. Much love!

Congratulations Kelly & Tim!!!

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June 15, 2016

June 10th was a sweet day full of sweet people. I liked Kelly and Tim from the moment I met them, so I was very excited to be at the Hotel Lafayette to spend part of their wedding with them. It was a lovely day, especially out on the courtyard under the string lights. Kelly and Tim were hiding out together, and seemed very happy and excited for the moment to arrive. At one point I asked Tim a question about if they wanted a microphone, and he immediately asked Kelly what she wanted, leaving their friends and family who were around them to laugh and tell him that he was already doing marriage correctly!
After guests took a Buffalo flag to wave in celebration for the couple, they took their seats and excitedly waited for the couple to arrive. Tim and I came out first, and he had a nervous sway going on standing in front of all those guests, waiting for Kelly to take that long walk down to him. But when she did, he absolutely lit up, and they took hands and seemed to immediately enter their own world. I think they may have heard some of their ceremony, but for the most part I could tell they were only noticing each other, making each other laugh, and squeezing hands. It’s their day so how else should it be?! Their hands shook as they put their rings on, but were completely confident as they kissed and the courtyard filled with waving flags of joy! Congratulations Tim & Kelly! I know you’ve been so happy together so far and I also know that there will be nothing but happiness in years to come. Best wishes always!