Matthew Rigby Photography

Sara and Mike chose to elope on a fruit farm in the Hudson Valley on a Wednesday in late May last year. They booked an Airbnb in Croton for their getting ready photos, where they also did a first look. They said their vows in the orchard at Wilken's Farm, participated in a handfasting ceremony with an officiant under a majestic oak tree, and then spent an hour exploring the farm. When the rain picked up they laughed it off and opened a clear umbrella for the rest of the afternoon, before cutting cake in a gazebo and sharing with their two friends who were present as witnesses (I had a slice too, it was amazing). Happy first anniversary!

We were waiting for the elevator to take us up to the patio area at Villa Barone Hilltop Manor when Marisa and Rick shares this with me on Saturday. I was completely taken aback, not only that they had seen these images that I posted a while ago, but that they made such an impression that, a year+ later they felt calm and confident on their rainy wedding day, knowing that we would still achieve amazing photos together.

I am very grateful that they took the time to share this with me, just as I am grateful for couples who are aligned with what I do and value. Yes, I will sometimes get in the water or rain to create the photo. Having the opportunity to do that with adventurous and trusting couples is a blessing.

Scroll to see my top three BTS shots of me taking photos in the water. My hope is to always give peace of mind and a calm presence on a wedding day, especially when we are adventuring or dealing with adverse weather.

Venue

Previews from Kate and Justin’s wedding this past weekend. It was my first wedding at the Bird and Bottle Inn, my hometown favorite restaurant. It was also the first time I’ve done a wedding with a tattoo artist, which was pretty awesome. Congratulations Kate and Justin!

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Tattoo artists
Videographer
DJ
Second
HMU
Floral

First look moments from Brittany and Joe’s beautiful early spring wedding day at VIP Country Club. Being right on the water in lower Westchester is a little different from my typical mountain views at home in Garrison, but it is a welcome change. This morning was full of beautiful moments.

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DJ
Flowers
HMU
Cake

Mary and AJ’s proposal was an incredibly thoughtful and heartfelt story. Hiking is really important to them, and they are currently training for a backpacking trip through the mountains of Hawaii. This made a perfect cover story for Mary to play a trip up to Cold Spring and hike up to Bull Hill. Little did AJ know, Mary was carrying both of their engagement rings. After Mary surprised them with the proposal, AJ got down on a knee to propose to Mary. After these beautiful moments we continued hiking in the area to soak in the views of the Hudson River, Breakneck Ridge, and Storm King. Along the way we shared a lot of laughs and I loved learning more about their stories. Congratulations to you both!