As a wedding photographer, I encounter many amazing couples. A wedding that I had the honor of photographing was Estefania ["Steph"] and Omar.
I always love it when couples incorporate unique nuances into their wedding, from something that may be an heirloom, to trinkets from their cultures. Steph and Omar were no exception, as they embraced both their Spanish and Mexican cultures.
The day began with pre-ceremony photos at Steph's Parents' home. Immediately, I could feel the love throughout this family, including the Bride's love for her dog, who was also dressed up for the day with a black bowtie. The Parents were a gorgeous couple, and were so thrilled for their daughter's big day. The Groom sent a surprise gift via his Best Man in the form of a Tiffany Blue jewelry box. What girl doesn't love receiving jewelry from Tiffany's! The closeness between the Bride, her Parents and Sister were just so lovely to witness and feel. The Father of the Bride wore cufflinks inscribed, "Father of the Bride", and made an intimate toast to his daughter. Before departing for the church, the Parents offered a prayer, which is a cultural tradition.
The ceremony was held at sunset at a gorgeous church in Ossining, NY, set along side the Hudson River bank. The view was breath-taking. There were several special nuances incorporated into this wedding ceremony: 13 gold coins were presented to the Bride by the Groom to symbolize his entrustment of all of his worldy goods into her care, and the Bride accepting these coins, symbolizing her unconditional acceptance of his trust and confidence. The coins also represented the Bride's dowry and held well wishes for prosperity, which will become a part of the couple's family heirloom. Twelve of the coins represent Christ and His 12 Apostles. As part of the ceremony, God Parents of the Bride and Groom gave the couple a prayer book, rosary, and kneeling pillow for the ceremony. A beaded rosary was draped in a figure eight around the Bride & Groom after they exchanged vows to symbolize their union.
The reception was held at one of Abigail Kirsch's venues, Tappan Hill Mansion. Family and guests were entertained by a Mariachis band during both the cocktail hour, and as a prelude to the announcement of the wedding party into the reception. Traditional Flamenco, Merengue, and Salsa dances were on display and so fun to watch. Although the weather was not conducive for outdoor pictures, it was a wonderful and unique wedding day!
Please enjoy some of their wedding photos. Click on image to enlarge:
Ciao, until next time...
