At Emma Cleary Photo and Video, we pride ourselves on celebrating love in all its forms, and Mary and Sharon’s wedding was no exception. Their beautiful day was filled with heartfelt moments, stunning details, and an abundance of joy—a true testament to their love story. Our team was thrilled to capture every detail, and we couldn’t be happier that Mary and Sharon were so pleased with their experience, as expressed in their glowing Google review:
“Emma was incredible to work with during the planning process and Asya and Konrad made us both feel so comfortable on our wedding day. They captured so many beautiful memories and the photos are amazing. We were so glad to have chosen Emma Cleary. Highly recommend.”
Photographers: Asya
Venue: Stone House at Stirling Ridge
Getting Ready: A Colorful Start
The day began at the Embassy Suites in Berkeley Heights, NJ, where Mary and Sharon prepared for their special day. Mary’s getting-ready photos, taken by Asya and Michael, captured tender moments with her bridal party as they put on the final touches. Meanwhile, Konrad documented Sharon’s preparations, highlighting her rainbow-colored corsage—a striking and symbolic alternative to a traditional bouquet. This vibrant detail perfectly represented Sharon’s personality and the couple’s shared values of inclusivity and individuality.
The morning’s lighthearted energy and excitement set the tone for the rest of the day. From close-ups of the invitation suite and rings to candid moments with friends and family, every detail was lovingly preserved.
A Picturesque First Look
Mary and Sharon’s first look was nothing short of magical. Set against the backdrop of the venue’s beautiful woodpile and wine closet, their reactions were filled with pure emotion. These intimate moments allowed the brides to soak in the significance of the day together, away from the hustle and bustle of the schedule.
The first look was followed by portraits across the venue’s stunning locations, including the lawn, fountain, and stone wall. One particularly charming spot was the chessboard, where the couple shared playful moments that reflected their fun-loving connection. The red doors and mirrors provided additional creative opportunities for artistic compositions that celebrated their unique style.
Capturing Family and Bridal Party Connections
Family and bridal party photos were a highlight of the day. Sharon shared a touching first look with her mother, and Mary’s sister Caitlyn was by her side for special moments. With 11 members in the bridal party, the energy was high, and every group brought their own personality to the photos. From the brides with their ushers and attendants to heartwarming shots with nieces and nephews, each frame radiated love and joy.
The family portraits were carefully planned and executed with a detailed shot list, ensuring no important relationships were overlooked. Sharon’s sisters and mother, Mary’s extended family, and close friends all took center stage during this portion of the day, creating cherished memories for everyone involved.
An Inclusive Celebration of Love
The ceremony was held in a beautiful outdoor space, and the photographers took time to document every thoughtful detail before the guests arrived. As Sharon and Mary exchanged vows, the emotion was palpable. Guests smiled through happy tears as the couple declared their love, surrounded by the support of family and friends.
During cocktail hour, candid moments of guests mingling and enjoying the venue were captured, along with stunning golden hour portraits of the brides. The reception began with a lively entrance to Diana Ross’s “I’m Coming Out,” setting the tone for a night full of celebration and dancing.
A Reception to Remember
Mary and Sharon’s first dance was a beautifully choreographed moment, showcasing their connection and joy. The evening continued with heartfelt speeches, including a blessing by Sharon’s uncle and a touching welcome speech from the brides. Table photos allowed the couple to connect with each of their guests, and a large group photo on the dance floor was a fun and memorable addition to the night.
Additional reception highlights included photos by the fire pit, guests roasting s’mores, and a cigar lounge that added a touch of sophistication to the celebration. As the evening progressed, Asya and Konrad continued to capture every meaningful interaction, ensuring the couple would have a comprehensive gallery to relive their day.
A Day to Treasure
Mary and Sharon’s wedding was a celebration of love, inclusivity, and individuality. We are honored to have been part of their journey and delighted that they felt at ease with our team. It’s moments like these that remind us why we love what we do.
Congratulations, Mary and Sharon! May your life together be as vibrant and joyful as your wedding day. If you’re planning your own special day and are looking for an inclusive and dedicated team to capture your memories, we’d love to hear from you.
At Emma Cleary Photo and Video, we specialize in capturing inclusive weddings and celebrating love in all forms. If you want to learn more about our approach, check out our article for tips and inspiration.
