Like so many couples in the past 2 years with the ups and downs with covid we are all finding the new normal to be backyard events from the comforts of our own home. And Emily + Adam did just that with their close family members to witness their beautiful nuptials. With a big celebration scheduled for later this year I was so glad they went ahead and made this happen for their family ahead of time. Thanks for allowing us come and be a part of such a special day.

For this nuptial I had a trusted friend and amazing talented photographer Nicole Guido take this on as a primary shoot in my stead. She had the most beautiful words to say about this day and her experience I wanted to leave here.

“I was called by a friend, with a last-minute emergency, and was asked to be at session within an hour.  A had a proff, who was a photojournalist, and I distinctly remember him saying, “always have your bag packed. You never know when you might need to run out the door.” I’m so glad that resonated with me. I quickly changed and ran out the door. I made my way across the city, repeating the bride & groom’s name the entire way, hoping not to slip the wrong name and embarrass myself. I knew how important this day was to this family and made sure I put my heart into capturing every moment.
 
Emily & Adam were married in Eleanor’s backyard with their closest family members by their side. Emily spent the early afternoon getting ready with her mom. She wore her moms, handmade, “going away” dress and walked down the aisle playing her own music off her iPhone. Their guests braved the cold and sat curled up under blankets and heat lamps.  As I photographed, I couldn’t help but notice how much love surrounded Emily & Adam; from little cheers, to tears, to laughter.
 
I learned the next day that Emily’s mom, Eleanor, had passed. From the one day I spent with her I knew she loved her children, was spunky, kind and a fighter.  I knew this wedding would be an important moment in my career, but I didn’t realize how important.  I’ve come back to editing these images multiple times and each time I look at them I am reminded of why I choose to do what I do.  I’m so humbled that I was able to gift this family with some of Eleanor’s last moments.  Moments filled with laughter, happiness & love.” – Nicole Guido

I was so lucky to have her take on this day when I couldn’t. I’m so darn lucky to be a part of a community that loves on our clients as much as we do. That we can put our heart and soul into everything that we do. I’m so grateful to have Nicole and some amazing small businesses a part of this community I’m so proud to be a part of.

Edited & Shot for: Danica Oliva Photography + Videography

Lead Photographer: Nicole Guido Photography

Florist: June Bloom Events

Officiant: The Marrying Lady

Cake: @jenny_bakes_ig

Cake topper: Stephanie Elle Designs

Bridal Coat: The Fitzroy Rentals

Groom’s Attire: Suit custom by Pace Men Collection + Jacket Harry Rosen Inc

Dress: Fun fact – this was actually one of the dresses that my mother made and wore at her own wedding. It was her “going away” dress that she changed into at the end of the night. And yes, my mother made BOTH her wedding dresses, and still has them!