When planning a wedding, most people would say that their biggest fear is rain on their wedding day. If there’s one lesson I can bestow upon a couple, it would be to run with the punches, even if it includes a down pour. Luckily, Rachel and Sam were the exact right couple to own this concept.
Both Rachel and Sam work in the demanding theater world; they are highly creative, and detail oriented by nature. They are very in tune with one another, and share a connection that is palatable; they nearly move in unison together if you observe them long enough. It’s pretty spectacular. In their spare time, they love to relax by baking in their apartment and share a love of botany. When planning their wedding, they knew that they wanted it to hit close to home - in both location and in interests. They chose to have their ceremony at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, just down the street from their Prospect Heights apartment. Afterward, they invited their guests to their favorite brunch spot, Faun on Vanderbilt Avenue. Sounds perfect, right?
Well, as Sam and his wedding party began setting up the chuppah in the rose garden, a sudden torrential downpour ensued. Luckily, everyone was prepared and umbrellas emerged.
This rainstorm was intense. And when I say intense, that is an understatement. The rain was coming down in sheets. It was the wettest I’ve ever been, to put it lightly. As I moved my camera, covering the crowd, I noticed their reactions, and every single person was smiling or laughing. No one seemed inconvenienced by the weather. Not Sam. Not Rachel. Not a single one of their guests. Everybody was as happy as can be, huddled close in a canopy of umbrellas. The moment was completely embraced by everyone in attendance. It was memorable and beautiful and set the mood for the rest of the day.
Ironically, right as the ceremony concluded, the rain was over as well. I photographed their family photos, everyone drenched, and again, everyone as happy as can be.
Next Rachel, Sam and I went to the indoor gardens for couples photos. The joy on their faces said it all; nothing could ruin their day. The majestic backdrop of fauna was only rivaled by the glow emanating from them both.
Finally, for their reception at Faun, the sun was out and people spilled from the restaurant out on to the lush backyard patio. Guests enjoyed a beautiful spread complete with all of the best brunch drinks. Heart felt speeches, a surprise cake for Rachel’s mom (it read “Savor your big day!”) and a quiet first dance in the restaurant rounded out a perfect wedding day, rain and all.
Be like Rachel and Sam; run with whatever comes your way, own it, love it, embrace it. After all, you can’t enjoy the warmth of the sunshine without the contrasting wet of the rain.
Vendors
Rachel’s dress, Carol Hannah Bridal
Rachel’s headband, Lizzie Fortunato
Rachel’s wedding ring, Trinity ring by Cartier
Sam’s suit, Mason & Sons
Sam’s accessories, Todd Synder
Sam’s wedding ring, Mr. O.K.
Ceremony venue, the rose garden at Brooklyn Botanical Garden
Reception venue and catering, Faun Brooklyn
Wedding invitations, hand painted by the groom
