When my amazing wedding planner friend Gina connected me to her clients Natalie and Justin, I was so pumped. Anyone who hires Gina is for sure going to be cool in my book, so that was my first indicator that I was going to adore these two. Lo and behold, we shared a love of South Brooklyn, the Verrazano Bridge (it’s the most attractive bridge in Brooklyn, fight me) as well as a love of plants just from the get-go. In September 2020, we had a gorgeous engagement session along the Bay Ridge waterfront, as well as at their apartment featuring their cat. It couldn’t have been better.
Fast forward to October of 2021. Their wedding was held at FEAST at Round Hill in Washingtonville NY, a venue I’ve always wanted to photograph. FEAST has a beautiful museum like aesthetic, featuring antique styling with elaborate grounds and gardens. Natalie matched the look perfectly with her deco jewelry and accessories plus her bouquet made of seeded eucalyptus. Despite the classic charm, Natalie managed to make her look a touch badass with her black leather jacket. Justin was suited up very nicely but kept it real with his Doc Martens. They were authentic to themselves and it was perfect.
Aside from photographing at a bucket-list venue, I hit the jackpot in a way I never would’ve expected. As a former teenage ska kid, this was my first ever wedding where there was skanking on the dance floor. At this point, I’d photographed 150+ weddings during my career and this was a first. As the wedding band started playing Reel Big Fish’s song “Beer” Natalie and Justin’s friends brought it. It took every piece of restraint from me to keep photographing and not just put my cameras down to join in. I’ll never forget it. If you’re not in the know, skanking is a form of dancing where you’re kicking your feet up along to the music — it’s unmistakable and if you know you know you know.
Thank you Natalie and Justin for trusting me to document your day. It was such a pleasure and I’ll never forget it.
Vendor credits
Wedding venue, FEAST at Round Hill, Washingtonville NY
Planner, Gina Jurlando of Jane & Jasper (highly, highly, highly recommended!)
Videographer, D White Visuals (love him!)
Hair and makeup, Miss Harlequin Makeup and Hair
Dress, Maggie Sottero Designs
Florals, Flowers by Joann
Wedding band, The Last Nites
Cake, Pastry Garden Bakery
Natalie’s engagement ring, Macy’s and customized at Casale Jewelers
Justin’s wedding ring, Casale Jewelers
Natalie’s wedding ring, ReindeerCo
Custom socks, Divvy Up
Justin’s wedding shoes, Dr. Martens
Natalie’s wedding shoes, But Another Innocent Tale
Natalie’s reception shoes, Vans
Natalie’s leather jacket, ASOS
