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I capture the unspoken — the glances, the silences — drawing from New York's pulse and the richness of global cultures. Every wedding is its own intricate narrative. Rooted in theatre and life's everyday rhythms, I document moments both transient and timeless. 

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Estate at Florentine Gardens Wedding

Estate at Florentine Gardens Wedding

Who? : Deanna + Francis

What? : Preparations at home in Staten Island, ceremony at a church on Staten Island, portraits and reception at a hall in River Vale, New Jersey

Where?  The Estate at Florentine Gardens

When? : April 2019

Spring weddings are incredible.  We get to see the sun, which we’ve been missing for months.  The days are longer, sweeter, lazier.  Timelines have room to breathe, because we’re not rushing against an early setting sun.  Deanna and Francis had just one of those days.  Gorgeous weather, a sweetly emotional church ceremony,  a delightful amount of time to create portraits in between the ceremony and reception, and two of the most wonderful people you’ll ever meet committing their lives and futures to each other.

Deanna and Francis have a special kind of magic.  They’re gentle to each other, make each other laugh, and despite disagreeing about the excellence (or lack thereof) of ABBA-based musicals, they’re a perfect fit.  It was no surprise that their day was also a perfect fit for the two of them, balancing sweetness with humor, a gorgeously grand venue with an intimate, family feeling.  Watching a couple like this become family is one of the great joys of my job, and being there to document it?  Indescribable.

Here are a few of my favorite images from their wedding:

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Estate at Florentine Gardens: A Romantic Oasis in the Heart of New Jersey

The Estate at Florentine Gardens, located in the picturesque setting of River Vale, New Jersey, offers an enchanting and elegant venue for weddings. This beautiful estate, set on four acres of meticulously landscaped gardens and lawns, is a perfect blend of timeless elegance and modern luxury, making it a favored choice for couples seeking a romantic and exclusive setting for their special day.

The Charm of Florentine Gardens

As guests arrive at the Estate at Florentine Gardens, they are greeted by the grandeur of the Georgian-style mansion, which exudes an air of aristocratic elegance. The estate’s sprawling grounds, with their beautifully manicured gardens, charming gazebos, and elegant fountains, offer a serene and picturesque backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and celebrations.

The grand ballroom, with its soaring ceilings, opulent chandeliers, and expansive dance floor, provides a luxurious setting for receptions. The room’s large windows offer views of the surrounding gardens, allowing natural light to enhance the beauty of the décor. For more intimate gatherings, the estate’s smaller rooms and lounges, adorned with classic furnishings and artwork, provide a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Photographic Splendor in Every Corner

The Estate at Florentine Gardens is a photographer’s dream, offering a multitude of stunning settings for wedding photographs. The gardens, with their vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and quaint footbridges, create a romantic setting for capturing the beauty and emotion of the day. The estate’s exterior, with its elegant architecture and grand façade, provides a classic and timeless backdrop.

Inside, the grand ballroom and other elegant spaces within the mansion offer a variety of opulent backdrops for capturing the celebrations. The sweeping staircase, ornate fireplaces, and elegant décor of the rooms provide perfect settings for both formal and candid shots, reflecting the joy and elegance of the occasion.

A Personalized and Exclusive Experience

The Estate at Florentine Gardens prides itself on providing an exclusive and personalized wedding experience. The estate hosts only one wedding at a time, ensuring that each couple receives the full attention and service they deserve. The culinary team at the estate creates exquisite menus tailored to the couple’s preferences, while the professional staff ensures that every detail of the wedding is executed flawlessly.

Embracing the Beauty of New Jersey

Located in the heart of River Vale, the Estate at Florentine Gardens is not only a stunning venue in itself but also benefits from the beauty of its surroundings. The picturesque landscapes of New Jersey, with their lush woodlands and rolling hills, provide additional opportunities for breathtaking photography, adding to the enchantment of the wedding day.

Choosing the Estate at Florentine Gardens for a wedding means stepping into a world of romantic elegance and exclusive luxury. It’s a place where every moment becomes a cherished memory, set against the backdrop of one of New Jersey’s most beautiful and refined estates.

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