Grayfields Farm Wedding in New Jersey
Apollo Fields | Farm Wedding Photographers | New Jersey Wedding Photographers | Best Wedding Photos | Equestrian Wedding | Grayfields Polo Farm | Allamuchy Wedding Photographer
Gray + Laura
I’ve always told people who don’t believe in ghosts that I’d pay for them to stay in a legit haunted house or hotel room. It’s not that I think that it’s actually dangerous but more that it will scare them in the same way I used to be scared of the monsters under my bed (that is, unless I leapt from the bed, in which case, they couldn’t reach me). Now I haven’t had a paranormal experience in a long time—but the photo that Heather took of Laura and Gray at their farm wedding in New Jersey this past weekend—that was the good kind of paranormal. The kind of feeling you get when someone you lost is there with you, watching over you.
Lens Flare? Don’t Care
During Laura and Gray’s golden hour session, they decided to stop by the pine tree that they planted for Gray’s late father, Chris. As they settled into a few poses, Heather kept noticing a flare following Gray around wherever he went. At first she thought it was a lens flare but the way it moved and the way it appeared she ruled that out. Then, as they went to the next spot, Laura and Gray’s favorite tree on their property on the other side of the house, the same flare appeared. Whether or not you believe in ghosts or the many other explanations for how that light appeared, I don’t really care. What I saw and what I felt gave me the sense of presence of life after death and that our energy lives on. This is the positive reality that I choose to believe in.
DIY Weddings
Weddings don’t have to be one-size fits all. You can prioritize or de-prioritize wedding details according to your needs. Laura and Gray didn’t want to have a lot of moving parts so they decided to host it on their gorgeous family farm in Allamuchy, NJ. They did, however, want the food to be amazing so they splurged on a high-quality caterer. They brought in a band, tent, tables, and a trailer restroom and had themselves a wedding to remember. Don’t get overwhelmed with details, instead, choose things that represent your priorities.
Relaxed Wedding Vibes
I always say that the vibe of a wedding comes from the top-down. If the bride and groom are relaxed, everyone else will fall in line, logistics included. Laura and Gray decided to have a more casual attire, jackets optional, because they wanted their guests to be comfortable in the August heat. Many think that the c-word (casual) is an invitation for friends and family to wear cargo shorts and a tuxedo t-shirt, but what happens more often than not is a dressed down, comfortable chic look. I for one, am heavily in favor of moving away from full suits or tuxedos during summer weddings, preferring a more customizable, fashionable style that Gray and his brothers absolutely crushed. Ladies, as for what you decide to wear, the floor is yours!
Laura and Gray’s wedding is one that will stick to me for a long time; if not for the spirituality, or the relaxed vibes, then it is because Capa got to come along. With a bunch of other little ones in attendance, the Grayfields wedding was the perfect blend of family and fun, class and comfort. Cheers guys!
It’s us!
The whole fam with Gray and Laura at polo the day after their amazing wedding. Reach out for your own photo needs below!
Gold Hill Inn Wedding in Boulder, CO
Zach & Susan's Gold Hill Inn Wedding in Boulder, CO | Colorado Weddings | Apollo Fields
I loved Zach and Susan’s wedding for a lot of reasons, but I think my favorite part about it was how much it truly reflected their lifestyles and relationship. They are both super down-to-earth, laid back, outdoorsy, and family oriented people and their wedding really let all of these aspects shine. I loved when we first chatted for a FaceTime meetup, we had to set up a specific time for them to be on wifi since they are living off the grid on a little hobby farm in the mountains of Colorado. We really clicked about their no-frills lifestyle and what it means to move towards a sustainable and eco-friendly homestead.
I want to share some of their couples questionnaire because I think it says so much about their personalities:
How Did You Two Meet?: We met the way people meet these days. And then we met in-person at the Pizza Bar 66 in Lyons, then took our dogs for a walk in Meadow Park.
When Did You Know It Was Right?: We had a very quick and easy bond. It just felt right. We expressed our love for one another about a month after starting to date. We were on our first hut trip together, over Thanksgiving break.
What Are Some Of Your Favorite Things To Do Together?: ski, hike, camp, travel, all manner of outdoor activities
What Are You Most Looking Forward To On Your Wedding Day?: I (Zach) think we are most looking forward to celebrating with friends and family after all the official business is over. Although the Gold Hill Inn will be very special, I think we're most looking forward to having everyone back to our home for the cookout/campfire/campout at our house.
Who Popped The Question? And how!?: I (Zach) popped the question in May. I was planning to do so for a while. We took a dive trip to Belize and I proposed to Susan on the first night. We went for a walk around the small island and I proposed to her on a dock just past sunset.
Any Big Plans For The Future?: A kid together, lots of travel and adventure and an active outdoor lifestyle. Hopefully one day moving back to the Western Slope or perhaps the Pacific Northwest.
What Makes You Two Unique?: We're both in our late 30's and have our shit together. That said, we recognize the life is worth living and not only for going through the motions that responsibility dictates. We like to work hard and play hard. This isn't particularly unique, but it's what makes us such a good match.
Individually, Susan is "wicked smart", compassionate, upbeat, positive and emotionally intuitive. I am straightforward, earnest, open, honest, loyal and driven.
Something Silly Or Quirky About You Two?: Susan is a small animal vet. As such, we have lots of animals and a hobby farm. And as such, I also have a small side business as a pet photographer. On our farm, we have 8 dogs (6 inside & 2 working dogs), 4 barn cats, 9 goats, and about 30 chickens. Two of our dogs will be in the ceremony (one one each side).
Enjoy their photos from their Gold Hill Inn wedding & their reception at their hobby farm:
Colorado Wedding Venue: Gold Hill Inn, Boulder, CO
Colorado Photography: Heather Huie for Apollo Fields
Harry Potter Themed Wedding at The Highlands Ranch Mansion
Micaela & Shane’s Wedding | Harry Potter Themed Weddings | Highlands Ranch Mansion | Highlands Ranch Colorado | Apollo Fields Wedding Photographers
I wish I could rate my couples online because these guys would be 5 stars across the board! First of all, they were a photographer’s dream - super easy to work with, very kind, easy going, and also GORGEOUS (the icing on the cake right). But most of all, they were a super down-to-earth easy going couple that just loved each other.
I’ve shot a few weddings at the Highlands Ranch Mansion so I have a few spots that are my go-to’s for that amazing golden light. I vividly remember getting ants in my pants during the ceremony because we were close to losing the golden light (they had a late summer ceremony so the light was absolutely DREAMY during the ceremony and we were going to lose it fast). Their officiant announced them as husband and wife, they kissed, celebrated down the aisle, and I immediately scooped them away for a few natural light romantics.
Micaela and Shane were such good sports about it, too. I knew that if I didn’t steal them for * five minutes * that we would lose that epic light and guests would want to storm them so it would be impossible afterwards. I always joke that golden hour is my catnip, but for a synesthetic photographer, it really makes my skin tingle and I just get totally high on it. These guys rolled with all of that energy and gave me the best five minutes that I could have ever asked for. I loved these shots because I felt like we just punched so much love and emotion into – literally – the last few moments of light and the photos are so indicative of that.
After the ceremony and epic romantics, I was able to take the back seat a little and snag relaxed family shots, cocktail hour, and intros. Micaela and Shane did a great job balancing a ‘themed’ wedding without feeling like a college party (haha). They are both huge Harry Potter fans and did such a tasteful job of showing this off and having fun with something that has shaped their relationship. Their friends and family were so much fun and I really loved working with this awesome couple!
Photography: Apollo Fields | Wedding Photographer
Wedding Venue: Highlands Ranch Mansion | Colorado
Published on Wedding Wire: Micaela & Shane’s Wedding
Non-Traditional Wedding Planning and Inspiration
DIY Wedding Ideas | Non-Traditional Wedding | Farm Wedding Photographers | Apollo Fields Wedding Photography | Ramsey, NJ
As wedding photojournalists we’ve had the privilege of documenting people on the best day of their lives. Surrounded by friends and family, our wedding couples celebrate their love with the traditions their families have taught them. But what happens if a couple doesn’t have any traditions? Or what if they do but they don’t have any connection to them? Please take these words as a license to create the wedding that best defines your relationship. Borrow from different traditions or create your own. There are no rules.
Heather and I chose to have our wedding at her aunt and uncle’s private farm in Ramsey, NJ, because: 1) they allowed us to, and 2) it was our closest connection to a meaningful tradition. The owners of Honeymoon Acres, Aunt Pam and Uncle Rick got married there in 1996 and we wanted to honor their union by following in their footsteps. Far from perfect, the farm is a haven for animals and family gatherings, treating four legged creatures with an equal-if-not-greater-hand than our relatives. There’s humility in recognizing the value of every animal on this earth and Pam and Rick never forget that and neither will we.
When you’re planning your wedding and getting caught up in the inevitable whirlwind of varying opinions remember this: you are the stewards of your own love. It is you and your significant other who are taking this expedition together — your brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, other relatives and friends can be safe places to stop along the way — but you two are the captains. It is you two who determine the course and to cede control of your wedding day is to allow others to briefly steer the ship. If you are okay with that, fine, but know that a ship with interim captains can wind up in uncharted waters. Please forgive the dramatic analogy but I cannot overemphasize the peace and fulfillment that comes with choosing the way you wish to celebrate your love.
Heather and I decided to celebrate ours by having our friend, David Miller, officiate our mala bead ceremony (see previous post). We took this route because of something that, ironically enough, a pastor said to us at a wedding: “it’s funny, I’m probably the person in this room who knows the least about the couple getting married, yet I’m the one speaking to their loved ones about their relationship.” It was all backwards for us, so picking a friend was a no-brainer. One of the other things that David did was pass our rings around to everyone in little nests, letting our guests cradle the symbols of our love in their trusted hands. We later tried to swap out the garter/bouquet toss for a stuffed animal toss to remind ourselves of our inner children — but just like children we somehow misplaced our stuffed animals. We ended the night with a Jewish tradition, the horah, because who doesn’t want to be lifted into the air to look upon the faces of your friends and family as they have the time of their lives?
Your wedding day can be many things. Why settle for traditions that are outdated and empty? Why not borrow the ones you like? Why not create something new? Why not take the opportunity to create a community that celebrates all the best things in your life. Your wedding doesn’t have to be lavish or expensive, all it has to be is you.
Photography: Alexis Cohen & Derek Morf for Apollo Fields
Farm Venue: Honeymoon Acres, Ramsey NJ
The Barn at Raccoon Creek Wedding Photography
Kate & Jeff’s Wedding | The Barn at Raccoon Creek | Colorado Wedding Photographers | December Weddings | Barn Wedding Photography
I first heard from Kate and Jeff when we were honeymooning in Jamaica. We were introduced via Frances, who is an amazing and badass photographer that I love to shoot with. Frances absolutely raved about Kate and would be a guest at the wedding, and knew that Kate and Jeff were looking for a photographer for their wedding that they were planning on a short timeline. They actually got engaged the same day that we got married (fun fact) and when we first started emailing, I knew we would be a great fit. Even though our wifi was spotty at best and we didn’t have an international cell plan in Jamaica, I remember walking around the house trying to find a connection with my phone hoping to get our emails through! I looked like a crazy person, waving my phone in the air in our villa, but I was just so excited even then to work with this awesome couple.
Then we met up for coffee in Denver in the beginning of December and immediately hit it off. I loved their vision for their wedding: sentimental, with a big focus on family, a lot of kiddos, and some rewriting of traditions. There were a lot of things that really resonated with me because just like us, they did a circle ceremony without a traditional wedding party. Kate’s brother, Andy, would be officiating and they were going to self-solemnize. The six munchins would be throwing paper airplanes instead of flowers as they walked down the aisle to celebrate Jeff’s job as a pilot. It all sounded great to me! I love when couples use their wedding as a platform to really showcase their relationship and values, and I knew from the beginning that this wedding would be exactly that.
We chatted and chatted over coffee just getting to know each other, and I could tell quickly that these two were just beaming together. They told me all about how they got engaged which basically made me melt—Jeff took Kate up for an airplane ride in a little Cessna and flew it over her house, where her closest friends and family were all cheering around a big poster that read, “Will You Marry Me?” How awesome is that!? I realized then that Jeff loves big, over the top grand gestures for all of the right reasons. There would be more of that to come on their wedding day…
But fast forward to Christmas morning at 4:00AM. I was in the hospital and my hemoglobin was dropping fast. The doctors suspected that I was rupturing, but we weren’t sure at the time. I had to make a decision right there and then whether to go into surgery. I remember asking the doctor if I would be able to shoot my weddings that weekend and she said that if we did surgery and as long as I was feeling up to it, there was no reason not to. If we decided not to do surgery, I could be in the same position a day or two later and might not be able to shoot. We weighed all of our pros and cons and ultimately, did the surgery. It ended up being the right decision for so many reasons, especially because once they opened me up, the doctors found that not only had I ruptured, but I had a lot of internal bleeding which was life-threatening.
So three days post-op, I pulled up to The Barn at Raccoon Creek at the same time at Kate, who looked so excited that it made me forget everything that we had just been through. She helped me get my equipment into the venue, which seems like a small thing but really isn’t. I couldn’t lift or carry anything because of the surgery, and it would have been so easy for a lot of other women to play the bride card and not want to help a vendor on their special day, but Kate was so kind and understanding that I knew the day would be amazing. With one arm holding her wedding dress and the other helped me get my camera bag out of the car, she gave me a warm smile that suggested I didn’t need to apologize. There was a sense of friendship there that means everything to vendors, and it really made me grateful for my clients and my job.
Shortly after, Katie rolled in to second shoot for me. I was originally going to fly solo for their wedding, but once I ended up in surgery, I decided that the most important thing was to get amazing photos whether or not we were budgeted for another shooter. Katie has worked with me before and I knew she would be a great addition to the day, so with almost no notice, she stepped up like a rockstar to help the team. Kate had a sense of calm to her as she was getting ready, and I think there is something really peaceful about not having swarms of bridesmaids buzzing around you before your wedding. She had music playing, was doing her own makeup, and casually sipping on some champagne. All was good, so we just started snapping away.
Kate and Jeff were earlyfor pictures, which basically never happens. The whole family was organized, and even the kiddos had their shit together. This was such a rarity, but couldn’t have come at a better time. Everything was so organized and we were able to have a really sentimental and private first look and then do family formals without any chaos or drama. Again, a real luxury for photographers! Guests began to trickle in and Kate and Jeff were able to have some quiet time before the ceremony.
The ceremony was cozy and sentimental, exactly as they had imagined it. Once they had exchanged their vows, everyone gathered outside for a big group photo before the guests went off for cocktail hour. The sun was inching towards the horizon line and I knew we didn’t have too much time before golden hour. We hopped in the golf cart and drove off to the most scenic place to do some photos of just the two of them, with the golden light pouring over the yellow grass, and I watched as Kate and Jeff just basked in the company of one another. They danced, they laughed, they cozied up in a blanket together, and I just snapped away.
The sun fell behind the mountains and we retreated into the cottage where Kate and Jeff were going to sign their marriage license and have some quiet time to themselves before the reception. I took some pictures of them signing and then they looked at me and asked me to be their witness. I was so humbled in this moment because they clearly had a ton of friends and family who adored them at this wedding, and yet here they were handing me the pen. Of course, I was honored to sign and then they offered me a taste of the special wine that they were sharing. I still get emotional (blame it on the hormones) thinking about their kindness on their own wedding day. I think that says so much about a couple, really.
The reception was fun, vibrant, energetic, and of course sentimental. I had been let in on a little secret that Jeff had up his sleeve, but wasn’t prepared for how amazing it actually would be. I mean, thinking back to his epic proposal, I should have known that he had a big surprise for Kate, but this was truly one of the best things I’ve been a part of at a wedding. They had planned their first dance to be a special song by Brendan James, one of their favorite musicians and had fond memories of listening to this song when their relationship first began. Jeff loves music but loves sharing this passion with Kate even more. So behind the scenes, he had flown Brendan James out himself all the way from Charleston and had him tucked away from all of the guests. Jeff took the microphone and surprised Kate while Brendan came out to perform their first dance song for them live.
After all of the applause settled down, the whole room got quiet, Brendan sat down at the piano and magic happened. I was so wrapped up in the moment, seeing how happy Jeff was to surprise his new wife, watching the gratitude sweep over Kate, and listening to the amazing sound of Brendan’s voice. I watched his hands floating effortlessly over the piano keys, and just kept shooting away, trying to focus on my job but unable to ignore the magnitude of the moment I was in. I remember looking over at Kate’s father and holding eye contact with him for a moment, I watched a small tear fall from his face and then I began to cry hard. After such a hard few weeks, I realized in that moment that life would go on and it would be beautiful.
Then came another surprise, and this time Jeff wouldn’t be in on it . Another awesome performer was stashed away and this time Bradley Rhodes came out to do another amazing live set. Everyone hugged and danced, and all came together to celebrate exactly as Jeff and Kate had imagined. Eventually, my coverage was long over but we got to spend some time with guests and get to know their families better. They had been so sweet to invite Terrence as a guest, and when we finally made it out to the dance floor, Frances stole my camera off my harness and took over shooting for a little while. The wedding was beautiful but it couldn’t have come at a better time. Some people think I’m an animal for working during a time that I could have very easily justified subbing in another photographer, but I really wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else. I want to extend a huge congrats to this amazing couple and a lifetime of love to both of them.
Wedding Photography: Apollo Fields
Venue: The Barn at Raccoon Creek | Littleton, Colorado
Music + Photo Booth: DJ Guy
Live Performances: Brendan James | Bradley Rhodes
Equestrian Photoshoot Ideas for Senior Photos
Horse Photography | Equine Portraits | Senior Photos | Capricorn Farm, Golden Colorado | Warmblood Horses | Apollo Fields Wedding Photographers
Aralimbo’s last home, Capricorn Farm in Jefferson County, Colorado, is a peaceful oasis that is permanently painted into my mind. Seated right in front of North Table Mountain in Golden, CO, every sunset sunk behind the Rocky Mountains too quickly, splashing palates of pink, yellow, and blue into the open sky like a landscape portrait by your favorite impressionist painter. The kicker of Capricorn Farm, though, was the owner, Katie, and her daughter, Jenna, who rode and worked that idyllic farm property as naturally as North Table Mountain emerged from the soil of the front range.
Farm life isn’t easy by any stretch of the imagination, but those who dive head first into the hay do so because they love animals more than they love themselves. Katie, like most barn owners we’ve met, evoked a stern, take-no-shit attitude when we first talked shop with her. Then, when we saw her walk through the stable, strutting in her element, shaking the dust from the field from her jacket, we noticed the heart behind the hard work. The way she reached out to touch her equine friends was as gentle as a gardener’s whisper; the way she looked into their eyes as sensitive as a mother’s gaze. It’s only in the rare few that these two seemingly opposite character traits – toughness and tenderness – materialize into the calloused hands of the seasoned farmer.
The last month we were in Colorado, Heather secretly did a photo session with Jenna and her horse, Justice, as a thank you gift for Katie’s loving care of Aralimbo. There’s a certain bond between a horse and the rider, Heather keeps telling me, and it first became evident in those photographs. Jenna was heading off to college and was heartbroken leaving Justice in Colorado, but such is the price you pay when you love something so much. Yet that day at Capricorn, Heather immortalized Jenna and Justice’s bond in photographs that will also reinforce Jenna’s relationship with Katie. It reminded me that distance between loved ones can always change with time, but remembering the moments that shaped our lives never will.
There’s something about the love of animals that makes having weddings at barns or farms more appropriate than banquet halls. Perhaps it’s the unconditional love that’s exchanged between eyes, the reward of hard work, or the many loves that the old wooden walls must’ve seen over time. All I know is that Heather and I are going to find a farm wedding venue that captures whatever it is.
Whether a trend or if farm weddings are here to stay, having the privilege to meet people like Katie and Jenna is why we are in the industry that we are in. Nothing means more to us than providing meaningful pathways for families, couples, or relatives to connect to one another. It just so happens that many of the people in our lives have an overwhelming amount of love for the other creatures we share this earth with. If it’s anything we can learn from them is that although their hands are calloused, it doesn’t prevent them from also being gentle.
Jenna & Justice
Horse Photography: Apollo Fields
Venue: Capricorn Farm
Aralimbo: My Big, Beautiful Beastasaurus
“Aralimbo” Castle Walk | Horse Photography | Warmblood Photos | Apollo Fields | New York Riding | Capricorn Farm, Golden Colorado
Getting to own a horse is a privilege. Getting to own Aralimbo is like winning the lottery, except sometimes the money catches on fire and tries to kill you. He is temperamental… as in, he has both a temper and is mental. He’s also a part time love-bug, zipper-breaker, snuggle-monster, and hair-puller. I love him though, perhaps a little too much considering that he threw me to timbuktu yesterday (marking my first fall off of him, believe it or not) and yet I still can’t wait to get back to the barn to love up on him – and kick his ass.
He goes by many names: Castle Walk, Aralimbo, Limbo, and most accurately, Bimbo. I first met him about ten years ago at Millbrook, when he was coming back from a foot problem and I got the lovely task of rehabbing him. He was in his prime, winning everything on the circuit, so I was stoked to get to ride him. But everyone cautioned me about the fire breathing dragon who had earned himself the nickname, “Crazy Eyes”. He had a reputation for being unpredictable, volatile, and pretty good at saying ‘no’ when he wanted.
“Use draw reins”, Dick Prant warned me the first time I hopped on, “And don’t let his head get too low”. For somebody who had never actually ridden the horse, he his advice was spot on. We made it through our first few rides unaffected, until one afternoon I took him out to the field before an imminent thunderstorm and he tried to murder me. Straight up, he looked like Blucifer, the horse statue at DIA, demonic red eyes and legs flailing in the air. Super – I thought – this is how I’m going to die. Anyway, I spent the next few weeks riding him each day until he was strong enough to get back in the show ring.
Fast forward to about two years ago when Nancy Prant and I got to talking about Limbo coming off of the show circuit and looking for a good forever home. His age and mileage were catching up with him, and he had earned his way into a slower paced lifestyle. Remembering that majestic, wild-eyed beast in the field all those years ago, my hair stood up on my arms. “I’d love to have him”, I told her. She replied with a blunt text message, “He kicks, bites, and bucks. You sure?” The answer was simple, “Yes”.
I’ve always had a soft-spot for the crazies. Especially the pretty ones… Everything else bores me, I suppose. I’ve been told by a few people that Limbo and I “deserve each other”, which I think is a compliment. Probably not though. He challenges me to the core and keeps me on my feet. Every time that I think I know what he is going to do, he usually pulls the extreme opposite. I’ve learned that sometimes I have to play by his rules, which is a hard pill for me to swallow. They are lengthy, but straightforward:
Doesn’t like to be ridden during feeding time. Will lose his shit if he hears the feed truck coming if he’s not in his stall.
Likes to be turned out in 1 hour and 59 minute increments. After 2 hours, he will begin pacing the gate. After 2 hours and 5 minutes, he’ll kick the fence.
Needs spurs to go forward, including the walk.
Does not enjoy the great outdoors and absolutely will not trail ride. Or cruise through a well-manicured path. Occasionally, this also includes the walk from the barn to the ring.
He will jump anything but if you ride him to a bad distance, he will punish you on the landing side.
Does not like to be turned out first. Also does not like to be brought in last.
Prefers sunny weather, about 70*F with no wind. Can tolerate light breezes.
Demands treats and will tear through your pockets to find them.
He does not buck to celebrate, he bucks to get you off of his back. This horse is unafraid and definitely not spooky. He is, however, a mad powerhouse and has no problem reminding you who is bigger.
One thing I love about this sport is how it forces humans to find non-verbal ways of communicating with a flight animal who will always, always be stronger than us. There are days when I have to walk away from Limbo’s meltdowns because it’s just not worth the fight. He is a born-alpha and craves authority, so I spend half of our time reminding him that he is subordinate to me, and the other half of the time cuddling him, feeding him carrots, and playing games with him. It’s a unique relationship, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Enjoy these pics of this big, beautiful beast of mine who literally does not take a bad photo. Also enjoy the fact that it took us 2cc of ace to get him in the field, and he still dragged me out of there rearing and screaming the moment the sun hit the horizon. All par for the course, I suppose.
PC: Kim Klein for Apollo Fields
Venue: Capricorn Farm, Golden Colorado
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Our Mala Bead Ceremony: A Non-Traditional Wedding Idea
Mala Bead Ceremony | Rehearsal Dinner Ideas | Non-Traditional Wedding Idea | Apollo Fields | Yoga Weddings
PSA to all couples who are getting married and looking for non-traditional wedding ideas: do a Mala Bead Ceremony! Originally a suggestion from a close hippie friend of ours (we love you, C!), we decided to do it for our wedding and everyone loved it! It was a heartfelt, engaging experience that was perfect for our rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding.
We first decided to do a Mala bead ceremony because neither of us were raised with any religious beliefs and we wanted to find traditions that resonated with us. The basic idea is this: ask your closest friends and family to obtain beads of any make, whether natural stone, wood, decorative, or otherwise. Then ask them to charge each of their beads with their intentions for your marriage and write them down. When everyone is together the night before the wedding, have each person present their beads and written intentions to you, describing why they chose those beads. Now, one-by-one string them onto your Mala bead necklace, beginning with a guru bead of your own.
The Guru Bead
The guru or anchor bead acts as the center of the necklace just as you will stand at the center of your family and friends during your wedding ceremony. In total, a traditional mala bead necklace contains 108 beads (not including the guru bead). After everyone has shared their beads and intentions, tie off the necklace. This personalized piece of jewelry is now ready for you to give to your officiant to wear during the ceremony.
Heather and I had no idea how our family and friends would respond to the ceremony, but their participation far exceeded our expectations. Our families aren’t particularly open with emotional conversations but somehow the subtlety and genuine nature of the mala bead ceremony created a comfortable space for them to share their feelings (so much feels, so much safe space). Some spoke with tongue-in-cheek comedy, while others stumbled through words that are usually left unspoken, but they all spoke.
They all shared their thoughts on love and what they think makes a good relationship. Unexpectedly insightful and heartfelt, I’d never felt closer to everyone in attendance. It was like one of those icebreaker team-building activities but with more on the line and less bullshit. I can’t recommend the ceremony enough.
Incorporating the Mala into our Ceremony
The day of the wedding we gave the necklace to our officiant, David “Killer” Miller, and he explained the significance of it to our guests while it gently hung around his neck. He also passed our wedding rings around in little nests for everyone to see, feel, and put their thoughts upon. Heather and I really wanted our wedding ceremony to be as interactive as possible because we feel most ceremonies are too exclusive rather than inclusive of those in attendance.
After all, why would you invite all these people to your wedding if you didn’t want them to participate in one way or another. We are the communities we are part of and I’ve never felt more in place than when I looked around at the faces in ours. Let this message be a reminder that your wedding day is whatever you want it to be, even if, especially if, it includes some random hippie ceremony.
The Intentions That Everyone Charged Our Beads With:
May you be LOVE (blood stone)
May you be LIGHT (amazonite)
May you be TRUTH (smoky quartz)
May you be COMPASSION (jasper)
Live today like there is no tomorrow.
Trust yourself to do the right thing!
Be truthful and honest in all that you do!
Have faith in yourself because you’re a good person and can solve anything that you encounter.
May you appreciate and encourage one another.
May you realize every moment is a gift.
May you have an open heart and therefore, an open mind.
To cherish your creativity and originality. It is hard to get it back (unicorn bead)
To live healthy and balanced. Everything in moderation (heart bead)
To be resilient at all times. Like a dragon (dragon bead)
To continue adventuring, thriving, and having a good time (flower bead)
The football shaped bead is pretty and reminds me of Heather
The barrel shape: Keep laughter in your lives. “A barrel of laughs”
Round cherry: From a necklace Heather made me. I wish you many happy days in your future
Yellow bead: Mom, Nana, and Pop all have this same bead to represent the strength in family
Stay classy
Be kind before being nice
Rosary Bead: May the breeze blow new strength into your beings
White Rosary Bead: May the moon softly restore you both by night
Brown flower bead: Was picked by me in a bead ceremony to represent RESILIENCE
Red squiggle bead: Keep traditions + make new traditions. It’s a Christmas bead. Believe in order to receive.
Strength: Although the nuts are individuals, they are strongest when they come home and are joined by the bolt.
Longevity: The darker nuts are from my fathers tool box. He understood partnership. M & D celebrated 66 years together last year.
Happiness: It has many components – Humor, Honesty, Humility
Growth: You are just starting your journey. You may need a bigger bolt as you grow more nuts!
Red beads from a necklace Heather made me. Makes me think of a ruby, represents my love for you both.
Teal bead: From a necklace Gram gave me. My intentions to keep the Girls Club alive forever.
Yellow bead: Dad, Nan, and Pop have this same bead to represent the strength in family.
Oval Silver: From a bracelet Heather made me. Silver represents sophisticated and modern, riches and wealth. May you have it all.
Black bead: Keep negative energy out of your life.
Yellow bead: To show strength in family.
Lead barrel: Like a bullet with gunpowder, continue to chase your dreams.
Black and white: Remember there are many other colors in the world.
For Nature
For Passion
For Play
Take time to listen with the mind and the heart
May you have patience with each other through the hard moments.
I will ALWAYS remember that I am strong and have the support of my extended family (we love you guys)
I will not do hard to others and accept the moment for what it is.
I will not end my day on an angry note; I have much to be grateful for.
I will have the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
I took this from Nana’s necklace. Like Nana, always find goodness in all people (Turquoise and Silver)
Pop, your father, and mom have the yellow bead to represent the strength in family.
This was from a necklace Heather made Nana. Hold the memories of both Gram and Nana (Teal)
Keep a transparent window of your future (Glass Bead)
What ever your wishes are!
Go forward.
My mom’s love of family.
Honeymoon Acres.
For memories.
For love.
To hold space for love even if it is small.
For a long, happy, ever-growing bond that gets stronger with time.
For you to find the joy even when you have to look for it.
For you to keep your uniqueness as individuals and as a couple.
May you have kind words, a loving heart, and good intentions.
May you take time every day to sit and quietly listen.
May you live in a constant state of amazement.
May you march to the beat of your own drum.
Winter – Teamwork. It takes two to build a snowman (snowman bead)
Spring – Pace, don’t rush through life like a speedy bunny. Slow down, enjoy the moments (bunny bead)
Summer – Freshness, a happy and fulfilling relationship (strawberry)
Fall – Harvest, enjoying the benefits of a long commitment (yellow tube)
Jade Tear: Jade is for luck and fortune.
The Bull: Bulls are strong. Willed with stronger personalities. Be mindful to see the bull in yourself and moo-ve on :)
The Frog: Frogs, while seemingly adaptable, are in reality quite fragile. Remember to nurture your relationships so it doesn’t dry out and be willing to shed your skin and try new things.
Flower on a White Background: This was the first bead I chose. It reminded me of traditional European embroidery motifs, which makes me think of our families as they have moved across this world, allowing for so many things, like you two getting to meet. Flowers make me think of spring and regrowth. The blank background is for possibility. I hope only the best in your new family, and everything that will come from it.
Venue: Honeymoon Acres, Private Farm | Ramsey NJ
Officiant: David Miller
HMUA: Jennifer Belle // Sandra Wittner
Photography: Alexis Cohen shooting for Apollo Fields
Brookside Gardens Wedding in Berthoud, Colorado
Kathya & Levi’s Wedding | Brookside Gardens Event Center | Berthoud, CO | Colorado Wedding Photographer | Apollo Fields Wedding Photography
Kathya and Levi had such a sweet and romantic wedding at Brookside Gardens in Berthoud, CO. I love this part of Colorado because the landscape is so beautiful with the Rockies in the background en route to Estes Park. It’s a quirky and cozy little part of Colorado near Lyons which is pretty artsy and filed with cafes and little shoppes.
I stopped for a nice working breakfast in town before heading over to the wedding. I love getting up to the towns early, stopping for coffee and a little power breakfast, plugging into my laptop with my headphones in and getting into my zone before a big wedding day. It’s a great routine for me to unwind and also rev up at the same time!
I arrived at Brookside Gardens and everyone was sort of quietly buzzing with wedding prep. I bounced back and forth between the guys and the girls while also snapping away some detail pics. They had such a sweet ceremony outside in the gardens and I could tell that they were super in tune with one another. They incorporated a few special readings, a tree planting ceremony, and even a dove release to make everything that much more special.
Afterwards, we went into cocktail hour with some family photos and wedding party pics. They decided not to do a first look so we were able to squeeze in everything after the ceremony when we still had good light. Then I snuck Kathya and Levi out to the field for golden hour to catch the dreamiest summer golden light! It’s like catnip for me when that beautiful dewy sun begins to set against the sun and I just get so excited when we get to have time for couples photos when the lighting is at its best.
I loved working with this sweet couple at this beautiful Colorado wedding venue!
Colorado Wedding Photography: Heather Huie for Apollo Fields
Colorado Wedding Venue: Brookside Gardens Event Center, Berthoud CO
Upstate NY Farm Wedding Photographer
Horse Farm Wedding | Upstate NY Weddings | Backyard Barn Wedding Photographer | Montgomery, New York | Apollo Fields Photography
Tori and Colin had an intimate wedding at their family farm in Montgomery, New York. The Riverview Farm is absolutely beautiful and holds a special place in my heart. I grew up riding horses and spent some time riding at this New York farm years ago and I can’t put into words how wonderful it felt to be back on my old stomping grounds. The farm itself is a 25 acre equine boarding and training facility located a little over an hour north of New York City.
Tori and Colin’s wedding included the perfect mix of rustic and modern details, as well as some intimate ones like photos of Colin’s father. I absolutely love when couples include special details like this to honor their loves ones that, for one reason or another, cannot attend their special day.
Tori and Colin also decided to include horses in their couple's photos, which made this the perfect equine wedding. They are both involved in the hunter jumper world and love horses just as much as I do. I have been riding my entire life and have a horse of my own, so photographing an authentic horse wedding like Tori and Colin’s was a dream come true.
Tori and Colin’s Equine Wedding at River View Farm
Tori & Colin | Farm Wedding on Equestrian Property | Upstate New York Weddings | Horse Wedding Photographer | Montgomery, NY | Apollo Photo
I was so excited when an old friend who I used to ride for reached out to ask about flying me out to their family farm to photograph her son's wedding! It had been years since I rode at their farm, but I always loved their property. The farm was always pristinely manicured with flowers, ponds, beautiful old trees, and perfect paths. Colin owns a landscaping business, so I was sure that they would be rolling out only the best for the wedding!
The barn houses a number of the family's horses as well as a few boarders that are part of Jenny's training business. She has been a highly successful and competitive hunter rider for years and I know her from the equestrian world and showjumping circuit. I was surprised when I still recognized a few of the four legged friends on the farm even after all of these years.
Tori was a stunning bride and I felt more like family than a photographer on the entire day of the wedding. Many wedding days begin hectic, with people running around last minute tacking on decorations and frantically calling vendors and friends. This wedding was the complete opposite.. everybody was calm, loving, and nostalgic. Friends and family were gathered around laughing, spending quality time together, and sharing memories. I truly felt like everyone was fully present in the moment. Wedding mornings like theirs remind me of why I love my job.
Tori and her bridesmaids got ready in the family farmhouse and I couldn't believe how much natural light there was! It was a photographer's dream: white walls, soft lighting, tall ceilings. If only all of my bridal suites were this aesthetically designed! One of my favorite in-between moments was when I went downstairs to find Tori tucked in a quiet corner painting her own nails. I just loved how modest she was in that moment, not obsessing over having her nails done at a salon or them being perfect. Instead, we just chatted together as if we were old friends. I love those moments on wedding days when I just put my camera down for a moment and lay down the foundation for a friendship.
The ceremony was sweet and heartfelt. Tori and Colin exchanged their vows, but it was the easy and adoring way that they looked at each other that said more than any words could. Afterwards, everyone celebrated with live music, champagne, family photos, and dancing. We even managed to squeeze in a portrait session with a few of the horses, which was one of my favorite parts of the day!
Tori and Colin's Wedding Vendors
Horse Wedding Photography: Apollo Fields
Wedding Venue: Riverview Farm, New York
Heather is a New York and Colorado based wedding photographer, but photographs weddings throughout the United States. If you’re interested in having her photograph your wedding, contact her today!
The Best of 2016 Wedding Photography
THE BEST OF 2016 | WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY AND ENGAGEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER IN NEW YORK AND COLORADO | Apollo Fields
As 2016 comes to a close, it's hard not to get nostalgic about all of the great celebrations of love, fun people, and spectacular places that my business has introduced me to. I always say – even though it's cheesy – that the best part of my job is being surrounded by people during what is oftentimes some of the happiest moments of their lives. How much better does it get??
We got to travel to a lot of different places for weddings this year which was great, including our big move to Colorado from NYC. Some of our favorite places included getting to shoot upstate at The Roxbury Barn and Estate, heading up to Canada for Jen and Jon’s wedding in Quebec, and finding some awesome mountain locations in the Rockies for engagements and weddings. We love traveling and it’s been such a great part of our lives and the business. We’re excited to book more destinations and get the chance to find new places and couples and everything in between!
So, to commemorate an epic year, here is a compilation of some of my personal faves...
SOME OF OUR FAVORITE VENUES OF THE YEAR:
Denver Art Museum | Denver, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park | Colorado
Jack Studios | New York, NY
The Roxbury Barn | The Catskills, New York
Le Chateau Frontenac | Old Quebec City, Canada
NOAH's Event Center | Westminster, CO
The Loeb Boathouse | Central Park, NYC
Chatfield Farms | Denver Botanic Gardens, Littleton
Lionsgate Event Center | Lafayette, Colorado
Historic Red Barn | Golden Gate Canyon State Park, CO