Congratulations to Shari and Craig and their new family! It was no coincidence that Shari and I reconnected. I used to work with her at Scholastic and while she knew about our business it wasn’t until she friended me on Facebook that we began discussing the possibility of us photographing her wedding. They called on Valentines Day and hired us for their wedding March 7th! I am so glad they decided to have us photograph their wedding. Their event was filled with some of the nicest and most fun-loving people I have ever had the pleasure to be around. Their wedding was also very unique in that they had many touching Jewish traditions that we do not get to see that often. I absolutely love the traditions of a Jewish ceremony. The event took place at Bayards in New York City. Bayards is on the most beautiful block surrounded by cobblestone streets and lovely cafes. While the bride and her ladies were getting ready Eric took Craig and his daughters out for photos. The lighting was perfect to simply walk along the streets and capture some touching moments.
Shari, along with her mom and sisters, got ready with all the excitement and anticipation that could only be found during pre-wedding celebrations. I loved this moment when Shari peeked over her shoulder to admire her dress.
Shari and her mom busting with excitement.
We captured some lovely portraits of Shari taken before the ceremony.
I swear that at every wedding I say that this bride is the happiest bride I’ve ever photographed. It’s very true – but Shari had a smile on her face and sparkle in her eye that would warm your heart. We’re so happy for her!
Eric is loving our new tilt shift lens so much that I haven’t even had a chance to try it yet, geesh, what a hog! Here is one image he captured before the festivities began. The Rabbi and Shari’s Dad are looking over the Ketubah. Great job Eric!
The Bedeken is one aspect of a Jewish ceremony that we only get to see a couple times a year. I am the worst at translating these traditions so please excuse my description. You can google Bedeken to learn more. The festivities began with the bride and groom in separate rooms. Shari was seated on a regal chair with her mother by her side and room full of joyful guests. Craig was in another room celebrating with the men and signing the Ketubah. After the Ketubah is signed musicians begin playing music and start the parade. Everyone claps and sings together as Craig is joyfully paraded in to see his bride. It is such a touching moment and always brings tears to my eyes.
Isn’t this moment just to die for?
The ceremony room and Chuppah were absolutely beautiful. They chose beautiful golden, copper tones. If you have ever been to our house you would know that we love orange.
I love this photo of Shari’s 4 sisters, her niece, and Craig’s two daughters. The entire family was so happy for them and the day was filled with laughter.
There were so many beautiful portraits of the bride and groom after the ceremony. It was so hard to choose which ones to give you a sneak peek of. I basically had to just close my eyes and pick out two. Both lovely moments that capture the old world feel of the streets in this neighborhood.
The last wedding I photographed I was pregnant. It was quite freeing to not have to feel so protective of my body. I thought to myself, OK, this is just me now, I can take some risks and not be such a wuss. That being said, the Horrah was wild! This ladies Horrah was one of the craziest I have ever seen. At one point I stood on a chair in the distance because I was afraid for my life in that circle. I also didn’t want to knock any one out with my big old camera and elbows. These women were so pumped up with adrenaline and joy that they were fearless!
Eric never has an issue fending for himself during the Horrah so I can’t speak for him but I know he was very excited about what he captured. I chose to show this image of Craig and his dad because I remember the Horrah at my own wedding, a moment when it was just my mom and I in the middle of this circle of craziness. It felt like we were together standing still, enjoying the moment, as the world spun crazy around us.
I love this photo, Shari is holding on for dear life as Craig is casually enjoying the ride with a glass of water.
So once again, congratulations to Shari and Craig. May your lives together be filled with two fold the love and happiness that I experienced on your wedding day.
Thank you for choosing Be Creative Photography!
Ceremony & Reception: Bayards
Florist: Flower Pot Florist
Stationary Designer: Ann Fisher
Hair: Shuki at Warren Tricomi Salon
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