couplegoals

There are not many things in this world that can make me happier than photographing a wedding (besides my family, friends and my Robert). So on Saturday, when I checked my phone after the bride and groom portraits and right before the wedding ceremony began, I didn’t think I could get much happier, but then I received this text message… “This is Juan, and I got engaged today!”

OH MY GOD was all I could say as I quickly typed a response and went back to capturing the wedding even happier than before.

About a year ago, I met Juan. He was looking to get back into the dating game and wanted to update his online dating profiles with some new, professional portraits. Of course, being the romantic sucker I am, I was more than happy to work with him!  As we walked around, we set him up in different poses and had a few different outfits to work with. Juan told me about his tight-knitt family, his career, what he is looking for in a wife etc… I really felt like I got to know him. We worked together to capture the essence of who he truly is and let me tell you, Juan is a great guy. He is personable, smart, sweet, accomplished, and I waked away from our session thinking whomever he ended up with was going to be one lucky woman.

A few months later, I was with one of my 2018 amazing YPcouples (shout out to Brittany & Greg) on the warmest January day when we ran into Juan right in front of his apartment building. He was with a beautiful woman and I could already tell that there was a spark between them. I didn’t want to interrupt what looked like one hell of a date, so I said my quick hello, gave him a huge smile and went on my way with Brittany and Greg.

“I took his dating profile photos!” I explained as we crossed the street into the square. I couldn’t help but think I hope the photos helped!

“The photos you took peaked her interest” Juan told me as we waited for Lilly in the lobby of their apartment building. All I could do was smile. They were so happy, so in love and so perfect for one another… I felt honored to have had a small part in helping them find each other. Lilly is just as incredible as Juan. An elementary school teacher with a heart of gold, a loving personality and a smile that could light up any room. She is even better than the woman I envisioned all those months ago at my first session with Juan. And as I saw them together, it was obvious that Juan had never been happier.

We spent the chilly Autumn morning walking around Rittenhouse Square. Although the park was bustling with people. It felt like we were the only three there. Lilly and Juan’s love was evident in every touch, every word and every smile and I know that they will have a strong, powerful and loving marriage.

Lilly, Juan, I cannot even begin to express how much it meant to me to capture this chapter of your love story. Cheers to many, many more chapters and many, many more incredible, heart-felt  moments.

xo,

Yael

” We have been together ever since…” Sarah said with a huge smile on her face. As we walked away from the Starbucks, the place they went on their first date, I couldn’t help but thinking about Sarah and Ron eight years ago. I couldn’t help but think about the adorable and lovely University of Maryland Freshman, Sarah, meeting Ron, the sweetest guy on campus that everyone seemed to know and love. I couldn’t help but picture 19 year old Ron, nervously sitting in the Starbucks, and wondering What coffee drink should I get her?  In typical Ron fashion, he wanted to make sure he had the right thing ordered for his date by the time she got there, but he had no idea what to get her and felt terrible when she walked in and he had nothing to offer. It’s the little things that make a relationship truly great and Ron understood this from the beginning.

Sarah and Ron had a deep, loving, committed relationship since that beautiful fall day at that Starbucks in Georgetown. They are the epitome of college-sweethearts and I couldn’t be happier for them! Amongst the craziness of college life, everyone else around Sarah and Ron were breaking up, getting together or doing the whole on again-off again thing that seems to be very popular in undergrad. Sarah and Ron never stopped loving, laughing and growing together.   And trust me on this one, I was there! I was one of the college kids who took part in the rollercoaster version of love at UMD, but not these two. These two were strong. These two learned how to flourish together, how to push each other to do better, dream bigger and live larger.

Eight years later, I had the immense pleasure and honor of photographing their engagement session. I couldn’t have asked for a better combination of passion, admiration and fun. Their expressions say it all. Walking around Georgetown, seeing where it all began and seeing the excitement in their eyes for their future together, was a dream come true.

Sarah, Ron, my wish for you is to have the most incredible life together. To continue to grow, flourish and be each others biggest support system. To never forget the amazing way your relationship began but always strive for a bigger and better future. You were such an incredible team in college and I feel lucky to have known you then, and even luckier to know you now. Sending you all the love in the world!

“Hey! Do you want to open your present?” Logan asked as he crouched down next to his nephew, Levi. The little boy, all dressed in his adorable red tie, grey suspenders and baller kicks just stared up at him with these big eyes. “I’ll be right back” Logan said as he ran into the Groom’s getting ready room and grabbed his present for the adorable ring bearer. When he returned, Levi saw the present in Logan’s hand and for the first time all day, the two year old let go of his animal crackers. He stood next to the kneeling Logan, wide-eyed. Together, they opened the present. Both groom and ring bearer had matching smiles as they ripped off the wrapping paper. When Levi saw what was inside, his smile went from big to huge. It was a a small wooden bat that fit perfectly in the toddler’s hands. He already knew how to hold it and what to do with it.  Levi was in his stance and swinging within seconds. “My uncle got me a wooden bat too at his wedding. I was about Levi’s age then also.” Logan told me as he stood up next to Levi and patted him on the head.

The rest of the wedding day was just like that, every moment, every detail had such a beautiful meaning behind it all. From the teddy bear that the rings were tied to on their way down the aisle, to Cassie’s necklace that she carefully wrapped around her bouquet. From the pearl bracelet, a family heirloom, that Cassie’s mom gently fastened  around her wrist as they both were teary eyed, all the way to the little rocking chair where the teddy bear sat with them on the sweetheart table. Every detail, every aspect and every moment of their wedding day was full of sincere emotion and importance. It was an incredible day to witness. From the beginning, Cassie and Logan made it clear that family meant the world to them and it showed in every part of their day.

The Brandywine Manor House was absolutely radiant on this beautiful Fall day. Decorated with symbols of love, gorgeous centerpieces that Melissa, Cassie’s dad’s fiance, created and sunflowers that made the room really pop. The ceremony took place as the sun shined right by the Manor’s waterfall. Although it was the fastest ceremony I have ever seen, there was more love, honor and commitment in those few minutes than anyone could ever ask for. Seeing Cassie and Logan share their love and their promises to each other in front of everyone they cared for the most, was a breath taking moment. I am touched and honored by Cassie and Logan and everything they stand for.

Cassie, Logan, my wish to you is to have everything you ever wanted. I know you will have the most beautiful family and your children will be just as loving and as sincere as both of you. Sending all the love in the world.

xo,

Yael

“Sean came up to me the other day and said that he could never thank me enough for hosting his wedding here on my property.” Mike paused and looked at Sean and Julie sitting at the sweetheart table. Every guest was quiet as they were waiting for Mike to continue…”But, in all honesty, I cannot thank Sean enough. I have spent every day of my life trying to get Julie to smile the way she does when she is around Sean. Sean thank you for making Julie the happiest I have ever seen her. I owe you everything” And with that, Mike put the microphone down, walked over to Sean and Julie and gave them both big bear hugs.

Julie, Sean, Mike and all of their closest friends and family spent the last year transforming Mike’s beautiful property into a fairytale wedding venue. The tent was absolutely breathtaking. I heard myself gasp as I walked up the long drive way, through the fun cocktail hour area, past the portable beer taps, all the way into the classy decorated tent. “Don’t forget to look up!” Julie shouted from the driveway as she saw me standing at the entrance of the tent. I looked up and heard myself gasp again.  There were a dozen beautifully white painted hula hoops decorated with vibrant pink flowers twinkling in the wind. I was in awe. Julie and Sean really did it! They had a vision for what they wanted their wedding day to look like and they put in the time, energy and love. And trust me when I say this, you could tell they loved everything about it.From the bonfire, to the dogs running around all the way to the coolest ice cream truck I have ever seen, every detail felt like them and I was amazed in every way.

Julie and Sean are the most genuine, loving couple. As individuals, they each have such a unique warmth to them that it only makes sense that they ended up together. The way they talk, the way they embrace their friends and family, the way they interact with everyone around them, is just sweet in every way. Witnessing Sean watch Julie walk down the aisle made the chili October day feel like a mid August day; beautiful, warm and full of admiration. There is nothing like it. There is no doubt in my mind that Julie and Sean will continue to create the sweetest marriage and family. I cannot wait to see the beautiful life they will share together.

Julie, Sean, my wish to you is that your life is full of amazing moments that are all as sweet as you.

As Heather pulled out the two handkerchiefs from her black bag with such grace and care, both of our eyes began to water. Heather was still in her white robe and I was set up on the Hotel Alcott terrace photographing the rings and invitations. She handed the handkerchiefs over with such delicacy and love, I was truly in awe. As we held back the tears she explained, both handkerchiefs were from two incredible women whom were no longer with us. The first, was given to Heather’s mom by her grandmother the night of her mom’s wedding. The second, was from Heather’s Father’s Aunt who helped raise Heather’s Dad from the age of ten. You could tell by the tone in Heather’s voice how significant these women were to her and how connected she felt with her family.  Heather made it clear that the most important photos to both Billy and her were the family ones. They  loved their families with all of their hearts and cared more than anything to capture every single relative who was there with them.  This was much more than just two people’s wedding day, it was a family celebration and there is nothing more beautiful and more pure than families like these two.

As Heather and Billy made their promises in front of the people that mattered the most to them, I could see the pride and joy in every single guest. There were tears and there were smiles, but everyone in that room felt like they belonged and looked like they could not have been happier.  I too, felt an abundance of love and happiness as we all witnessed the sweetest couple in the world becoming husband and wife.

The entire day was amazing. I think I may have used the word ‘perfect’ a thousand times. The weather couldn’t have been better for a late September Wedding, the couple couldn’t have been more in love and the dancing couldn’t have been more fun. Even the center pieces were stunning and custom made by Heather’s talented mother. Every detail was lovingly and carefully planned and came together in the perfect way.

Heather, Billy, you already know how much being a part of your wedding meant to me. I wish for you to wake up every day and feel even more love and support as you did on your wedding day. You two deserve a life full of adventure, bliss and boundless love. Cheers to you, your family and everything you stand for!

xo,

Yael

February 2008:

“So, I have exciting news” My mom said as she walked down the stairs to the living room. “What?” I said, as I lounged on the leather sofa in my school uniform and UGGs, not even looking up from my Samsung Alias phone. I was clearly way more interested in my text conversation with my best friend from sleep-away camp (shout out to Dina Sebrow) than what my mom had to say.

She sighed and continued to talk “Bec and Sim picked a wedding date…”

She just looked at me, being the typical, uninterested, 15 year old girl that I was, I said nothing.

“It’s going to be the Sunday of 4th of July weekend” My mom said.

I looked up…”Why would they do that! It’s a holiday for crying out loud” I finally said in the most dramatic voice that could ever come out of my mouth. I put my Alias down next to me and crossed my arms.

My mom sat down on the sofa next to me and taught me one heck of an important lesson.

You must be thinking “Well duh, Yael. That is an obvious one.” and in ways you are totally right, there are certain dates that you already know are never going to happen. But here is the cool part… Did you know that high sought – after seasons and days of the week are more expensive? A Saturday evening reception at the end of the summer and a Friday midday wedding in the middle of winter at the same venue can have vastly different prices. So, if your SO is dying to see you walk down the aisle at his favorite venue, pick a Friday or a slightly colder day of the year. It will save you money, make him happy and allow you to have a larger budget for the dream dress you have always wanted. In my book, that is a win win win! 

Becca and Simcha did it right; not only did they get married on a Sunday, but a holiday weekend no less! Which, at the time, was one the smartest wedding decisions they could have made!

They have now been married for over 10 years and have four incredible kids… I mean how can you NOT want to follow their lead : ) 

xo,

Yael

As Sarah walked up behind Al, you could see the excitement in his eyes. He was ready. He was ready to see his beautiful bride. They have been planning for months. They have been waiting for months. They have been talking about this wedding every day for over a year. And now, it was finally here. He was standing with his back turned away in the courtyard of the cute AirBnB they rented, and his Sarah, the love of this life, was right behind him and he was not allowed to look. He had to patiently, or should I say, not so patiently wait for her to tap him on the shoulder. As Sarah’s finger was in the air, about ready to tap, she looked directly at my camera with a knowing look and a witty smile. TAP! TAP!  Al turned around with absolutely no hesitation.  As their eyes met, the nerves washed away and the only thing left was pure, total bliss. Now, the prep was all done, the planning all over and all they could do was enjoy each other and enjoy the first day of the rest of their lives.

Sarah and Al’s wedding ceremony and reception took place in the Anthenaeum in Old Town Alexandria. With the beautiful artwork, incredible windows and their closest friends and family surrounding them, they exchanged vows that made my heart melt. Their love for each other and the life they have already built together shining through with every word and every promise uttered. I have no doubt in my mind that Sarah and Al will continue to have an amazing journey as husband and wife. The love, passion and commitment they share with each other is nothing less than a vision and I feel like the luckiest photographer in the world to have the honor to capture their big day.

Sarah, Al, the joy and devotion I witnessed on your wedding day still gives me goosebumps (in the best possible way). I remember chatting with Sarah, years ago, about the nice guy, Al, she just met. Now, you two are partners, best friends and each others biggest support system. Seeing how much your love has blossomed over the years is breathtaking. I wish you a marriage full of growth, warmth and never ending happiness.

xo – Yael

“I love Excel” Robert said as we were sitting on a bench in Rittenhouse Square. We were waiting for our table at the Italian Restaurant for our very first date and someone ended up talking about spreadsheets and key functions. “You have to know how to use excel!” At the time, I thought it was adorable. I mean it was our first date! Everything was cute. Now, I find his love for excel and numbers more than just cute, it is a life saver… which, leads me to “Yael’s tip of the week Vol. 2”

Your spreadsheet is your best friend; Now that you have your budget (check out Yael’s Tip of the Week Vol. 1), it is time to break out that laptop and make that spreadsheet… Yes, I said spreadsheet! This spreadsheet will be yours, and your wallets, best friend for the next 12-24 months. Believe me, there is no one who dislikes spreadsheets more than yours truly (don’t tell Robert I said that), but this one will be magical. Anytime you speak to a vendor, find some cool centerpieces or look into ordering some speciality chocolates, put it in that spreadsheet baby. This spreadsheet will keep all the marvelous research and quotes together in one place making planning simpler and more organized. This way, when it has been months since you found that really cool photobooth and you just cannot remember the company’s name, you can open up your lovely spreadsheet and have all the answers right then and there!  So let’s get organized my incredible bride and groom to be!

Everyone stood. Ciaran had the most electric smile I have ever seen as his attention was focused on the Brigalias’s big chapel doors. And then there she was… Brittany looking stunning and angelic all in one, walked down the aisle with her lovely, strong and incredible mother, Lisa. It was quite a vision. Watching a mother give a way her daughter is always meaningful, but witnessing the overwhelming love and affection that Lisa had for both Brittany and Ciaran had my eyes watering and my heart singing.

Ciaran has been a part of their family since the beginning. You can tell just by seeing the way he interacts with all the Bromfield women that he was considered a brother and a son way before Brittany and Ciaran said “I do.” He is warm, joyous and has the kindest heart I have ever seen; which meshes perfectly with Brittany’s welcoming demeanor, loving nature and strong spirit.

From the first time I met Brittany, I knew she was someone special. The way she described her love for her Ciaran was incredible and heartwarming. I could not wait to photograph their wedding, and let me tell you… it was even better than expected.

Every detail was extraordinary as we walked through the beautiful venue. From the Chapel windows, to the amazing Willow tree all the way to the romantic, wooden swing in the back. Everywhere we turned was picture perfect and every time I picked up my camera and aimed it towards Brittany and Ciaran, the only thing I could see was their deep, infamous love for one another. I feel like the luckiest photographer in the world to have witnessed and captured their forever love.

Brittany, Ciaran, I cannot wait to see where life takes you. Your love and commitment to each other will be able to take on every battle life throws at you!

Vendors : Venue: Brigalias | Dress: Bridal Garden | Videographers: Cinescope Films LLC | Hair and make-up: Daneene Jensen and Associates | Florist: Always beautiful Floral Design | DJ:

The love, the laughter and the happiness that spread like wild fire from the moment the day started until the late hours of the after party was infectious in every sense of the word. You could feel the love getting deeper, the laughter getting louder and the happiness getting bigger as the day went on.

Between the Hamilton Manor’s gorgeous venue and Lauren and Tony’s impeccable style, I couldn’t have asked for a more incredible wedding to photograph. Lauren’s attention to detail made for every photographers dream.

From the moment I walked into the hotel room, Lauren was all smiles and giddiness. Tony, on the other hand, was a little bit more nervous. As soon as he saw his beautiful bride walking down the aisle, his expression changed from nerves to complete and total appreciation.

It is as simple as that. Tony loves Lauren with all his heart. He will do anything to make her happy and Tony will protect and cherish her till forever.

Lauren is the sweetest thing in the world. Just as I suspected, she was giggling through the entire ceremony and there is nothing more contagious and joyous than a giggling bride. She giggled her way into marriage and what could be better than that!?

Although Lauren and Tony are of course the best part of the day, one of my favorite moments was of Lauren and her darling father.  As Lauren’s dad spun her around the dance floor, there were tears in our eyes. She has always been daddy’s little girl. You can tell by the way they adoringly look at each other, the way they enthusiastically talk to each other and the way they lovingly smile at each other as if they are in on a secret that no one else would understand. It is a bond that everyone wishes they had with their daughter. As the two of them danced around, a slideshow started playing in the corners of the room. Lauren’s dad had created a beautiful montages of her life leading up to this day; the day that he gave his little girl away to start a life with her new, incredible husband Tony.

Lauren, Tony, it was the biggest pleasure being a part of your wedding day. It was a dream come true and you two together, are what it is all about. Cheers to 150 years of marriage, health, love and happiness!