When I met Ann and Ken, they shared their wedding vision with me from the very start. They wanted a ceremony and reception that celebrated new beginnings. So it really was a no-brainer when they chose to celebrate their big day on New Year’s Eve.

The wedding was intimate, and each detail gave insight into Ann and Ken as individuals and as a couple. Ann’s background as an event planner shined through, for the wedding was perfectly coordinated and designed. Not one thing was overlooked! They even had a traditional Norwegian almond cookie tower to celebrate Ann’s Norwegian background; a dessert commonly used around the holidays and for special celebrations.

Before the ceremony, I captured Ken’s reaction as he saw his beautiful bride for the first time in her wedding dress. It was a serene and snowy New Year’s Eve session that made for very romantic shots. The images turned out stunning, as Ken’s emerald suit and Ann’s emerald ring contrasted with the white snow surrounding them. I appreciated how much Ann and Ken trusted me, even when I asked them to go back outside later that night to capture snowstorm nighttime images.

At 7 PM the ceremony began, and candles twinkled all around the venue. The guests invited were a mixture of family and close friends. Ken’s daughter, Shay, was a very special guest and was instrumental during the vows. Needless to say, everyone was touched by the couple’s vows to each other and by Ann’s vows to Shay.

Strathmere’s hand crafted food and intimate ambiance are one of a kind. Throughout the night, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres were served. The guests’ expectations were surpassed by Strathmere’s excellent service. With tasteful lounge decor placed around the room, I was able to capture the guests mingling and getting to know each other.

When the clock struck midnight, Ann surprised all of us! She had changed into a satin emerald gown that matched her ring, and perfectly complemented Ken’s emerald velvet blazer. Together, we toasted to the newly married couple and rang in the New Year with cocktails and the celebration of love!