Island Heights Yacht Club Wedding
Island Heights Yacht Club Wedding
jarred + Madison
Madison and Jarred celebrated their union in timeless elegance at the Island Heights Yacht Club in Island Heights, NJ. Nestled along the picturesque Jersey Shore, the venue exuded a rich maritime charm, echoing the couple's love for the sea. The historical significance of the location added a touch of vintage allure to their nautical-themed wedding. Against the backdrop of the sparkling bay and sailboats gently swaying in the breeze, Madison looked radiant in her wedding gown, and Jarred, dashing in his navy blue suit. The ceremony, framed by the historic yacht club's architecture, was a blend of tradition and seaside romance. As they exchanged vows overlooking the water, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the couple and their guests. The reception unfolded in a ballroom adorned with marine-inspired decor, transporting everyone to a maritime wonderland. With laughter, love, and the gentle lapping of waves as their soundtrack, Madison and Jarred's wedding was a beautiful testament to their journey beginning at this enchanting historic venue on the shores of New Jersey.
NYC City Clerk Winter Wedding
NYC City Clerk Winter Wedding
Kevyn + agi
ChatGPT
Getting married at the New York City Clerk's Office, also known as the Manhattan Marriage Bureau, is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
1. Obtain a Marriage License:
Both parties must appear together at the City Clerk's Office to apply for a marriage license.
Bring valid photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport.
The minimum age to marry without parental consent is 18.
If either party has been previously married, you will need to provide the exact date of the divorce or the death of the former spouse.
2. Fill Out the Marriage License Application:
You can complete the marriage license application online before your visit or fill it out at the Clerk's Office.
The application requires basic information about both parties, such as names, addresses, and Social Security numbers.
3. Pay the Marriage License Fee:
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the fee for a marriage license is typically around $35. Payment can be made by credit card, money order, or by paying in cash.
4. Wait for the Marriage License:
Once you have submitted the application and paid the fee, you will be issued a marriage license immediately.
5. Perform the Marriage Ceremony:
The marriage license is valid for 60 days from the time it is issued.
You can have your marriage ceremony performed at the Clerk's Office right after obtaining the license or anywhere else in the state.
You may bring your own officiant, or you can have a ceremony performed by a staff member at the Clerk's Office for an additional fee.
6. Obtain Your Marriage Certificate:
After the ceremony, your officiant and witnesses (if any) will sign the marriage license.
The officiant is responsible for returning the signed license to the Clerk's Office.
Once the signed license is received and recorded, you can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate for a separate fee.
Important Notes:
It's advisable to check the current fees and requirements on the official website of the New York City Clerk's Office or contact them directly, as these details may change.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, procedures and requirements may be subject to change, so it's recommended to check for any updates or restrictions.
The Mansion on Turner Hill Wedding in Ipswich, MA
The Mansion on Turner Hill Wedding in Ipswich, MA
casey + joe
Love has a remarkable way of transcending boundaries, and for Casey and Joe, their journey led them from the picturesque landscapes of Germany to the historic charm of Ipswich, Massachusetts. Join us as we delve into the heartwarming story of a military couple whose love knows no borders, culminating in a December celebration at The Mansion on Turner Hill.
Across Oceans and Time Zones Casey and Joe's love story unfolded against the backdrop of a transcontinental romance. Joe, serving in the military, found himself stationed in Germany, where he crossed paths with Casey. Their connection grew stronger despite the miles that separated them, proving that love can thrive even in the face of distance.
The Proposal on Foreign Soil Joe's proposal was a moment of joy amidst the challenges of a military lifestyle. Against the backdrop of historic German architecture and the enchanting landscapes of the Black Forest, he asked Casey to be his forever. With a resounding 'yes,' the couple set their sights on a winter wedding in the bride's hometown of Ipswich.
A Winter Wonderland in Ipswich Choosing The Mansion on Turner Hill for their December celebration was a nod to Casey's roots and a dreamy winter setting. The mansion, with its rich history and classic elegance, provided the perfect venue for a celebration that bridged the gap between their life in Germany and their ties to Massachusetts.
Navigating Wedding Planning Across Continents Planning a wedding from overseas comes with its unique set of challenges, but Casey and Joe faced them with resilience and creativity. Virtual meetings, thoughtful collaborations with local vendors, and a supportive network of family and friends helped bring their vision to life.
Incorporating Military Traditions Joe's military service added a poignant touch to the wedding ceremony. The couple incorporated military traditions into their celebration, paying homage to Joe's commitment to service and the sacrifices made by military families around the world.
Embracing Winter Elegance Casey's bridal ensemble captured the essence of winter elegance, with a gown adorned with delicate lace reminiscent of snowflakes. Joe, in his military dress uniform, stood tall and proud as they exchanged vows in a ceremony that symbolized the merging of two worlds.
A Celebration of Love, Unity, and Homecoming As Casey and Joe danced under the glittering lights of The Mansion on Turner Hill, surrounded by the warmth of their loved ones, it became evident that love truly knows no borders. Their December wedding was not just a celebration of their union but also a homecoming, as they bridged the gap between two continents and embarked on a new chapter together.
Love's Resilience Casey and Joe's love story serves as a testament to the resilience of love, transcending geographical distances and military service. Their winter wedding at The Mansion on Turner Hill will forever be a cherished chapter in the book of their lives, reminding us all that love is a force that can overcome any obstacle, no matter how far-reaching. Cheers to Casey and Joe, a couple whose love story is as timeless as the winter landscapes of Ipswich, Massachusetts.
Santa's Christmas Tree Farm Engagement Photos
Santa's Christmas Tree Farm Engagement Photos | Greenport NY | December Engagement Sessions | Apollo Fields Wedding Photographers
Bianca & Sal
Long Beach Engagement Photography
Long Beach Engagement Photography | Long Island Engagement Photos | Apollo Fields Wedding Photographers
Justyna & Steve
Coney Island Engagement Photography
Coney Island Engagement Photography | Brooklyn Engagement Photos | Apollo Fields Wedding Photographers | NYC Photographer
Jenny & Frank
The last time I was at Coney Island before Frank and Jenny’s engagement session I was swinging from a trapeze. For real. Now I’m not in the circus and judging by my performance that day, I should stick with photography, but for an afternoon my best friend and I took a trapeze class at Coney Island. It was pre-covid and I was still living in NYC at the time, so Terrence, Grace, and I all took the subway down to Coney Island for the day. We spent some time on the beach, and the blistering sun reflected off the waves on all the New Yorkers looking for a summer escape from the hot concrete in Manhattan.
When we were there, the beaches were practically shoulder-to-shoulder busy, and the boardwalk was booming with both locals and tourists. The rides were in full swing, and we made the obligatory trip to Nathans. I think I got tatertots, the lame-o vegetarian that I am.
Jenny and Frank have similar memories from Coney Island, and have spent many date-days exploring this fun spot. We met up in October for their engagement session and Coney Island looked distinctly different than the peak season craziness that I remembered from my last visit. At first, it was mildly eerie, like the set of a movie where the streets are a little vacant and the year-round dwellers are all characters of their own. The amusement park was closed for the season, but the sun was warm and the light was hazy and reminiscent of summer despite the time of year.
My father was visiting from South Carolina, so him, Terrence and Capa all took off for a stroller tour of the area while Jenny, Frank, and I made our way up and down the boardwalk. We took a moment to get on the sand near the beach, but spent our time exploring and chatting. They are such a sweet couple planning a Buffalo NY wedding, so it was extra fun to get to shoot their engagement in Brooklyn in a place that is so sentimental for them!
Enjoy these photos from Frank and Jenny’s Coney Island Engagement Session:
Central Park Engagement Session
Central Park Engagement Photography | Bethesda Fountain and Terrace Wedding Photographs | NYC Engagement Photographers | Apollo Fields Husband and Wife Photo Team
Natalie & Eugene’s Engagement
Anytime I get to walk through Central Park it reminds me of my old running route. I’d start at West 112th Street and run down Broadway to 79th Street, cut across the avenues past the Museum of Natural History, and stop at a pull up bar near the Great Lawn to do some calisthenic exercises. I’d continue my run south towards Sheep Meadow to play Ultimate Frisbee with one of the best communities I’ve ever known. I’d eventually make my way back to the west side strolling by Bethesda Fountain, past the Bow Bridge, and along my favorite path on the south side of The Central Park Lake, the body of water where tourists take out the cute paddle boats. I can’t help but think about this time of my life without a great longing, reminiscing about the freedom of my twenties. It seems that no matter how old I am I always ‘[\want to be somewhere else or be older or younger. It makes me beg the question: is there any way to get over this “grass is always greener” mindset over the course of our lives?
Heather and I met Eugene over the summer at one of our friend’s going away parties, but this was the first time we met Natalie. We connected with them through our mutual friend, John, who went to Marymount Manhattan College with Eugene. We didn’t expect John to come along for the engagement session in Central Park but there he was, giving Eugene style tips and busting his chops like a good friend and quintessential best man. We started the shoot at Bethesda Fountain, dabbled in the Mall between street performers and skateboarders, then finished up by The Lake and Bow Bridge because Eugene and Natalie are set to get married at the Loeb Boathouse in just a few short months.
Eugene and Natalie have one of those quiet connections, and according to them it’s been there since their very first date. One of the questions we ask on the questionnaire we send over to our couples is: “When did you realize that you loved your significant other?” Well, for Eugene and Natalie, all it took was one date, because afterwards they jokingly referred to each other as ‘husband’ and ‘wife.’ The way they interact with one another is intimate but casual, conversational and playful. There is an understanding beneath their every exchange that made them very easy to photograph through our walk in Central Park. We all decided to grab a drink on the Upper West Side afterwards.
The most unfortunate thing about love is that it all comes down to timing. The kind of understanding that Eugene and Natalie and Heather and I have all stems from meeting someone at a particular time in our lives when each of us 1) had a strong idea of who we were as individuals, and 2) had a strong idea of what we wanted our significant other to be like. The alignment of these two factors is critical to a healthy relationship with any hope of longevity. A lot of us spend most of our lives trying to figure our “who we are” and a lot of us are too wracked with doubt and insecurity to effectively learn what a good partner for our particular needs looks like. Every time I try to explain how Heather and I have such a working, loving relationship, there is a feeling of an insurmountably large chasm between being alone and being where we are. The best thing I can suggest is to start with a better understanding of yourself.
Despite always feeling like “the grass is always greener” most of my life, I can confidently say I am thoroughly enjoying my thirties. Heather and I have hit a stride in our business, and we have one happy, healthy boy. I still get frustrated and am overtired most of the time, but once I hear Capa giggle or see him peacefully sleeping any sort of bullshit stress just washes away. Capa helps ground me in a way that makes life feel finite for the first time. For as long as I can remember I’ve always felt that I’m going to live forever—and each day and year that passes its hard to wrap my mind around all that has changed—that is until you see a newborn baby become a ten-month-old. We all grow older everyday and it is up to us to appreciate the green grass beneath our feet.
Enjoy these images from Eugene and Natalie’s Central Park engagement:
Fire Island Engagement Photos in Long Island
Fire Island Engagement Photos in Long Island | Fair Harbor Photography | Apollo Fields Engagement Photographers
Kayla & Jonathan
Ninety Acres Farm-To-Table Wedding Photography in Peapack, NJ
Sydney & Aniello’s Wedding | Ninety Acres Farm-To-Table Wedding Photography in Peapack, NJ | Backyard Wedding Ceremony | Apollo Fields
From the beginning, Sydney and Aniello had planned an intimate wedding in New Jersey and a bigger reception in Italy. Then, of course, COVID hit and their plans to wed in April were completely derailed. I remember talking to Sydney on the phone right at that time when Italy was getting hit really hard and the US had only begun to worry about the power of the virus. I could hear the shakiness in her voice, as all of Aniello’s family lives in Italy, and their wedding was supposed to be right on the horizon.
Luckily, this couple is both resilient and logical and they were truly able to make the best out of an unfortunate situation. In fact, the one word they used to describe their own relationship was “unwavering”, and I couldn’t agree more! They postponed both celebrations and waited for the dust to settle, but were still eager to get married.
Sydney and Aniello decided to continue with their intimate wedding in New Jersey on September 19th and the day was absolutely perfect. We had a gorgeous fall afternoon together while they got ready for their backyard ceremony at Sydney’s family home. The energy was quaint, but buzzing with positivity and love. One important element that was executed beautifully was digitizing the ceremony so Aniello’s Italian family could still watch and be as present as possible for their wedding. The couple even exchanged their vows in both English and Italian in order to include everyone.
I loved getting to know this couple more and learn more about the origins of their sweet relationship. I loved how Sydney described their first date in Italy: “I think when I first saw Aniello, I felt love at first sight because I got this weird nervous, inexplicably ecstatic feeling that I had never felt before! We had so much fun talking to each other that my mom and Sal felt quite excluded from the conversation, but were smiling at each other the whole time realizing they were witnessing something special.
“We never officially called it a date, but we dined al fresco and spent the rest of the evening meandering around town just talking. The food was actually quite terrible, but we were so engrossed in our conversation that we really didn't care. I remember when we left the restaurant and we started walking, he placed his hands on my shoulders and gently moved me inside so that he could walk on the side closest to the street. My thoughts were "Wow he is very chivalrous in an old-fashioned and charming way, which is something very rare!"
Aniello had a similarly adoring memory from that date, “My thought beforehand was that I was very lucky to be spending a beautiful night with a beautiful girl. During the date, I thought Sydney was gorgeous, as well as really witty and patient (I talk a lot and she listened intently!). I also thought that she was great company because she was had very good manners and was very entertaining to talk to which I don't find often with people; she also was very thoughtful as she gave me a little tour of the town and brought me to ice cream after dinner. After, I thought I wanted to spend more time with her and hoped to see her again soon”.
Sydney and Aniello love to travel and immerse themselves in culture and language, and look forward to being able to celebrate Part II of their wedding in Italy when the time comes! I was so lucky to have been able to be a part of their sentimental celebration in NJ and wish them all the best in their lives together!
Enjoy these sneak peeks from Sydney & Aniello’s wedding:
Vendors:
Photography: Apollo Fields
Florist: Jardiniere Fine Flowers
Cake: Cocoluxe Fine Pastries
Venue: Ninety Acres Farm-To-Table Restaurant
Wedding Dress: Galvan
Favors: Confetti Milano
Senior Photography with Horses at Equestrian Barn
Lili’s Senior Photos at The Barn | Senior Photography in New Jersey | Apollo Fields Photographers
Round Peak Vineyards Wedding in Mt Airy, NC
Mike and Maddy’s Vineyard Wedding in North Carolina | Apollo Fields | Outdoor Wedding Photographer | Mountain Wedding Photography | Round Peak Vineyard Wedding Photos | Mt. Airy, NC
Ever since I first read The Alchemist by Paulo Cohelo I have carried the theme of pursuing your “personal legend” with me wherever I go. It’s all about listening to and trusting your intuition in your life decisions. The famous line that resonates from the book is, “when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it,” and after shooting Mike and Maddy’s engagement photos in NYC and vineyard wedding in North Carolina, it’s really hard not to believe it.
During Mike and Maddy’s engagement session, Heather got one of my favorite Apollo Fields photos of all time when we stumbled across a fire hydrant spraying into the street. Then after driving nine hours to Mt. Airy, North Carolina a few weeks later, the rapidly changing weather on their wedding day at Round Peak Vineyards helped them chart a few more. The rain started to fall immediately after we finished doing Mike and Maddy’s ceremony and family formals, and Heather seized the opportunity to grab some playfully dramatic shots of them carrying umbrellas. It poured for another hour or two only to give way to a milky golden sunset and a soaring rainbow! Mike and Maddy were all smiles as they adapted their day to Mother Nature’s beauty.
If Mike and Maddy had cancelled their wedding or engagement shoot; if they didn’t bring the celebration to Mike’s family in North Carolina; if they didn’t bring the energy despite all that they’ve been through in both of the events, if, if, if. So many conditions and variables changed the course of the celebration of their love but none of them changed the nature of it. Because Mike and Maddy knew what they wanted [to celebrate their love], the universe conspired in their favor.
Mike and Maddy had so many opportunities to fold and postpone their wedding altogether (There would’ve been no shame in taking this action). But instead they persevered and just worked harder to make it happen. Every one of their 20+ guests were tested for COVID in advance of their outdoor celebration. They focused less on what they were missing and more on what they could do. Their hard-nosed go-with-the-flow vibe created beautifully genuine moments around every corner.
On our drive down to North Carolina we got a flat tire when we were about an hour outside of the venue. We bought a patch kit at a gas station and I began to get to work in the parking lot so we could get back on the road. Heather was standing there with her hands on her hips, watching as her adorable baby bump protruded in the light of the sun, while I took off my shirt and wore only bright orange-ish pants--I can only imagine what the rural Virginians thought of us. Then, out of nowhere, two men, and then another came to our aid, and supplied us with a reamer that wasn’t included in the patch kit. We were done in a matter of minutes. We tried to offer them a drink, money, or anything we could give to show our gratitude but they refused it all. There were so many things that could go wrong in the planning of Mike and Maddy’s wedding, but because of their energy and effort, and our kind southern strangers, the universe wound up conspiring in all of our favor.
Enjoy these photos from Mike & Maddy’s Round Peak Vineyard Wedding:
vendors:
Apollo Fields | Photography
Round Peak Vineyards | Venue/Catering
Jenny Yoo Watters Bride | Dress
Indochino | Suit
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Bucks County Wedding Photographers
Chris and Edie’s Winter Wedding in Bucks County, PA
On a warm, bright December morning in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, Christopher draped his tuxedo jacket around Edie’s shoulders to keep her perfectly comfortable. They decided to get married at the Abington Presbyterian Church to keep Edie’s family tradition alive, as her brother, Bruce, and their parents all got married there. It’s the kind of tradition that we at Apollo Fields get excited about; the kind of tradition that cannot and should not be broken. With each of their respective families in the local area, they held their reception at Bluestone Country Club, just down the road from the family church.
My day began at Cristopher’s sister, Rachel’s home, at a beautiful house resting on a property that many animals and a couple of children have called home. Rachel'’s children are 4H kids through-and-through, and despite their young age they’re more than capable to run a full farm by themselves. As we made our way up a path towards the rear of their property, where they once kept steer and sheep, the boys headed to the chicken pen (which boasted a 2X-state champion chicken) to corral the flock into the coop for the night. We recreated a photo with Chris and Rachel from her wedding, and snapped a few more of the family in the warm December sunshine.
I reconnected with Heather and Edie at the Abington Presbyterian Church, where Christopher was putting the finishing touches on his thank you speech in a room full of family and groomsmen. A couple of rooms away, Edie could barely contain her happiness, beaming with a smile typically reserved for children in candy shops. It’s moments like these when I know exactly why we love photographing weddings—when happiness takes over our brains—and our faces couldn’t tell any other story no matter how hard we tried. Just a few minutes later, the resounding organ and the voice of the pastor rung over the pews and through the halls as a festive star hung in the air. Love was truly all around us.
The fact that Chris and Edie got married at a later age than most of our couples gave us a new lens to look at love. We could see how love makes children of us all, the way they held and looked into each other’s eyes. It made me realize that romance never dies, it only waits for the right recipient. If patience is a virtue, then love is the god it serves, for there is no way to expedite the path to someone who elevates your life. I can honestly say that Chris and Edie’s love truly reminded me of the many reasons why I married Heather.
Love has the capacity to be whatever it has to be whenever it has to be it. Love is amorphous, elusive, and can leave us full or empty. Rather than try to define it, we are better off appreciating the best things that it brings out of ourselves and our significant others, for life would be truly lonely without proper company. Here’s to Chris and Edie, who have shown us another angle of love we have yet to capture.
Vendor List:
Photography & Wedding Writing: Apollo Fields
Hey! It’s Team Apollo
We still have some spots open for 2020— don’t wait to reach out!
LGBTQ Wedding Ideas with Rainbow Smoke Bombs
How To Pull Off A Rainbow Smoke Bomb at Your Wedding | LGBTQ Wedding Ideas | Victoria and Sarah’s Wedding at Perona Farms, Anderson NJ | Apollo Fields Wedding Photography
As a photographer and artist, one of my favorite moments is when I look in the back of my camera and I just know I nailed the shot. Every wedding season, there are a handful of moments when everything falls into place and I’m able to really grab that “wow” moment. The rainbow smoke bomb photograph at this wedding was that shot for me.
Yes, there are years of honing your craft that give you—as the photographer—that sixth sense that allows you to dial in your settings in a split second moment, frame the image, direct the crowd, and make it happen. But there is also an element of luck and happenstance that cannot be denied. You have to have all the ingredients to make a truly epic photograph, and in this case, I was lucky to be a part of the scene.
I was shooting for A Sweet Focus and we were having an all around great wedding day. I don’t second shoot much anymore, but this one made me miss it actually. Both of the brides were dynamic, fun, sweet, and gorgeous. They had such an inspiring connection and their wedding parties brought all the energy to match! It was my first time at Perona Farms but barn weddings are basically my jam so I was so excited from the beginning. I also want to quick-plug this venue for the best golden hour light that absolutely floods the bottom floor of the barn, making for super dramatic lighting.
Anyway, back to HOW THE HECK DO YOU PULL OF THE RAINBOW SMOKE BOMB SHOT!? Well, first of all you obviously need to buy the smoke bombs. I recommend this wire pull smoke grenade if you’re getting them online because they are pretty reliable. You’ll obviously want the whole rainbow of colors but I also recommend buying one backup of each color because occasionally, one won’t go off.
You also need to check with the venue because smoke bombs are considered a firework and might be illegal to use at your wedding. In addition, they should only be used by adults because they can burn if used incorrectly. I’m a bit strict when it comes to this stuff so please don’t ask us (the photographers) to do something illegal or unsafe :)
But once you have the green light go, you should know that they don’t last long— about a minute on average so you need to have everything dialed in ahead of time, and prep the people who are detonating them so they don’t pull them too early or too late. Communication and coordination is key, because those 60-90 seconds GO FAST! And as you can tell in the photographs, once they hit their peak, they turn into a cloud of grey smoke— and be careful because they can stain clothes (and white wedding dresses) if you’re not careful.
But I’ll tell you what, when done correctly, smoke bombs are SUPER cool and dramatic. For Tori and Sarah, they were the perfect way to show off their pride for their LGBTQ wedding and have the perfect “Love Is Love” shot. That’s the best part for me, to be able to give such an epic shot that carries such a huge message of love, acceptance, pride, and community.
Shot for A Sweet Focus
Rainy Engagement Session Ideas
Laura and Tim's Rainy Engagement in NYC | Grand Central Station Engagements | Apollo Fields Wedding Photography
Sideways rain and high winds, crumbling umbrellas and leaping over puddles. It takes a certain brand of person to still want to hold their engagement photo session in New York City under those conditions, but boy are we grateful that Laura and Tim are our brand of romantic and crazy. These two showed us that with the right amount of flexibility, love can still shine through the thickest of clouds, and send raindrops the size of marbles down into the gutter to gently roll down stream.
We began Laura and Tim’s engagement photo session in Grand Central Station, where the ornate architecture of the building framed the warmth of their relationship with a classy and cozy glow. We recounted how they met right around the same time Heather and I met (the end of 2014), sharing similar awkward stories about the endings of our respective first dates. When we stopped on a ramp to take their first series of photos, they nestled into each others arms as if they were cuddling beneath a blanket on the couch, laughingly saying, “we’re not sure how we’re supposed to be standing,” to which we assured them, “just keep doing exactly what you’re doing.”
Laura and Tim have a certain chemistry that is impossible not to photograph, embodying a comfort and ease that requires nothing else to understand its beauty. If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a picture of these two is a book on aesthetics. I honestly don’t mean to be so flattering, but I can’t help it when I can see the love that flows so naturally out of them. Somehow they made the first time we all met on a rainy day seem like a warm spring, sunny day in Central Park—and that deserves to be celebrated.
We eventually wound up succumbing to the power of Mother Nature and ducked out in a local Irish pub, Rosie Dunn’s, for a couple of pints and conversation. The positive vibes must’ve followed us into that place because the friendly waitress invited us to continue the photo session in their beautifully styled modern-gothic private space upstairs. After a few more photos we wrapped and sat down to share stories and get to know each other better.
Laura and Tim have been dating for five years and at some point knew they’d get married, but the catalyst of the wedding was romantic to its core. While shopping in an antique ring shop for their wedding bands in November 2019, they stumbled across a set that had the date “2/22/30” with a set of initials and thought, “wouldn’t it be cute if we got married on their 90 year anniversary, 2/22/20?” After discussing with family and friends to see if the logistics could feasibly work, to their own surprise, they began planning for their wedding in just a short couple of months.
With most of everything in place except a few small decisions, they are more at ease than most couples who spend years planning their special day. Laura and Tim have reminded us that when there is a real chemistry in a relationship, love can overcome crappy weather and short timelines all the same—just let those raindrops bounce off your proverbial umbrella and watch them gently flow down stream.
Photography: Apollo Fields
Portland Oregon Photographers
Hungry for an adventure? Here’s why we’re hooked on the PNW.
Our Trip to Portland, Oregon | Apollo Fields Travel Photography
“If I know my wife—she’s gonna love milking that cow,” I declared to everyone surrounding Sierra, the gentle hobby farm, Portland(ish)-based cow. It all started as a joke—a one-off comment made by my brother, Matt, and his wife, Morgan—to go to a local farm at night to milk a cow after an epic powder day of snowboarding on Mt. Hood. To our surprise, we all responded, “well, that could actually be fun,” and just like that our winter vacation to Portland, Oregon, got off to an authentically Apollo Fields start.
The following day we took a scenic route through the foothills of Mt. Hood, meandering on winding streets beneath mossy branches, vines, and canopies, surrounded on either side by vegetable, livestock, and tree farms. The quick transition from the below freezing, fluffy white sloping facade of the mountain’s coniferous trees to this foggy, almost magical forest instantly inspired in us a sense of wide-eyed childlike wonder. I didn’t realize I appreciated the diversity of flora until I imagined the contrast of the barren branches of the east coast with the explosion of ferns and teeming life of the Pacific Northwest.
We continued on a self-guided tour of waterfalls, short hikes, and scenic pull-offs as we made our way back down to Portland proper, driving along the Columbia River Gorge, and taking in our first view of the Portland skyline. The first thing I noticed were the many bridges that reached over the Willamette River (which bisects the city), whereupon Matt informed me that aside from being known as the “City of Roses” because of all of the roses that adorn the highways and streets, Portland is also known as “Bridgetown” or “Bridge City” (“The more you know…”). The easy access to nature from the city reminded Heather and I why we loved living in Colorado as we were quickly began to fall in love with Portland.
After trying a bunch of local breweries (shout out to Cascade Brewing and Base Camp Brewing), bakeries, and coffee houses, we rounded out the trip with a drive to and Cannon Beach on the coast. 55 degrees and overcast, we hooked up with one of our east coast comrades and he showed us one of his local surf spots. Again, another short hike captivated us with towering trees, babbling creeks, and thriving life in the trail’s every nook and cranny. I saw a creek flow into the ocean for the very first time. By the time we left that beach, our hearts had officially been won by the Pacific Northwest.
Heather and I realized on the flight home that this vacation was the first one we have taken since our honeymoon to Negril, Jamaica in November 2018. Yes, we’ve traveled to a bunch of states this past year and enjoyed documenting one epic wedding after another, but it was so damned refreshing to just kick it with one another and our families and friends. It didn’t hurt that we found a corner of the planet that we might want to eventually call home, but for now we’re refreshed and revitalized. Whether you find peace on a snowboard, on a hiking trail, in the city, or beside a cow, never stop exploring this world to find where your heart is at ease—there is truly no better feeling in this life. Cheers to 2020 and beyond.
Photography: Apollo Fields
Princeton University Engagement Session Photographer
Danielle and Kevin's Engagement Photos at Princeton University | Princeton, New Jersey Photographer | Apollo Fields Wedding Photography
Talk about a fun blast from the past! I was so lucky to get to spend the afternoon with Danielle and Kevin at one of my old digs— Princeton University— for their engagement session. A little backstory: Danielle and I used to ride together YEARS and years ago at Fox Chase Farm in New Jersey. I was riding and training professionally all throughout my undergrad career and Danielle was one of my favorite riders at the time. I always loved her determination, quiet demeanor around the horses, and our shared love of art and photography.
Danielle actually took photos a few times around the barn when Riddy was a puppy that are still some of my favorite pics of him to date! We bopped around the shows together and always had a blast until Danielle left for SCAD. I hadn’t heard from her in a while besides casually following one another on social media, and then when Danielle and Kevin got engaged, I was so excited to hear from her again— this time for US to shoot HER wedding!
When I arrived at Princeton and hooked up with them, the only thing about Danielle that had changed was her badass hair! Other than that, she’s still the same fun spunky and energetic gal that I used to ride with. Except now, she’s engaged! So I also got to know her fiancé Kevin a bit and quickly realized what a great pair these two are.
We had such a fun afternoon as we caught a perfect golden hour on the campus and the last bits of autumn. The foliage and leaves really popped and I just love how the colors play with the classic artictecturhe of this epic campus. I’ve always loved Princeton and I was so stoked to be able to finally shoot at one of my favorite places to be.
Enjoy Danielle & Kevin’s engagement photos:
Photography: Apollo Fields
Venue: Princeton University
Hats are in!
We’re so excited to finally have some swag.
Sapphire Point Engagement Photos in Colorado
Matt and Julie’s Sapphire Point Engagement Session | Dillon, Colorado Engagements | Lake Dillon Photography | Apollo Fields Wedding Photographers
I’ve never described a view as “sticky” before, but that’s the word that came to mind after we wrapped Matt and Julie’s engagement session at Sapphire Point in Dillon, CO. It was like the feeling I got as a kid when it began to get dark and there was just one inning left in our wiffle ball game. “Just one more inning, mom!” It’s this feeling that this moment is all that exists and to leave it would be to deny yourself an experience that you will never get back. Call it juvenile or dramatic but I think 12-year-old me and 31-year-old me might be on to something.
Our first meeting with Matt and Julie happened in one of our favorite places—a brewery. Oasis Brewing Company in the Highlands neighborhood of Denver, CO, is a multi-level, exposed-brick venue with rustic wooden tables and industrial steel beams to anchor the open, charming space (I actually helped re-open it in March 2018). Once we grabbed a beer we all took a seat at one of the banquet tables along the wall and chatted about Matt and Julie’s wedding in Littleton, CO, in May 2020. The conversation mimicked the space in which we spoke: laid-back, organized, and youthful yet sophisticated.
Matt (a lawyer) and Julie (a teacher) represent the kind of couples that we are grateful to attract and meet. Matt and Julie know what they want, aren’t afraid to ask questions, and their communication is a wonderful mix of professional, candid, and casual. These conversational cornerstones allows us to navigate the complexity of wedding photography, i.e. “what do we get?” or “what are we paying for?”, with ease. Instead of bogging down the meeting in the details, we candidly ask what they are looking for in wedding photography as we all casually take a sip of our beer. This way, we can deliver a customized package based on their priorities rather than trying to sell them products or services they’re not interested in. Of course, we don’t expect every one of our couples to know what they want like Matt and Julie, but it’s definitely something we’re grateful for when it comes down to the brass tacks of wedding photography (totally thought it was “brass tax” until I Googled it).
Fast forward a few months and we’re meeting Matt and Julie at Matt’s family home in Dillon for their engagement shoot. We were welcomed by his mother and father, two dogs, and a brilliantly blue Colorado sky quickly approaching our coveted golden hour. We began by taking a stroll down by the cliffs of their home for a more casual start before we made our way up to the photographer-and-chipmunk occupied Sapphire Point (seriously, there were adorable little chipmunks scampering everywhere). Luckily, we came on a Sunday night when it wasn’t that busy, we don’t even want to imagine the amount of hikers we would have photoshop out of a picture on a Saturday afternoon.
The love was real, the mood was romantic, and the view was...sticky. Everything about Matt and Julie’s engagement session made my eyes and heart want to stay but it was starting to get dark. It was an experience I may never to get to live again exactly, but perhaps that’s the best way to appreciate a moment. To allow your desires to remain a bit unsatiated, to walk up the hiking path away from the view so that your mind clings to its pristine image in all its glory. I can still see that sunset when I close my eyes, and even though I won’t know how that wiffle ball game was supposed to end, maybe I’m not supposed to.
Enjoy Julie & Matt’s Engagement Photos:
As seen in: Couture Colorado Magazine
Breweries and happy couples… these are a few of our favorite things…
Hanging with Matt and Julie after their Sapphire Point engagement photos! What better place to connect than over a craft beer! If that makes us hipsters then you should expect handlebar mustaches on both of us shortly!
Wedgewood Boulder Creek Wedding Photographer
Apollo Fields | Wedgewood Weddings at Boulder Creek | Intimate Wedding Photos | Candid Wedding Photography
The modernization of traditions keeps our jobs as wedding photographers fresh and inventive. From DIY ceremonies and weddings in the woods to more conventional rituals in churches; each wedding reveals each couple’s unique relationship to their respective belief systems. Kelly and Alec’s catholic wedding at Sacred Heart of Mary and reception at Wedgewood-Boulder Creek in Boulder, Colorado, showed us that you can both honor your past and embrace the new.
Before Kelly and Alec’s wedding, I never knew the significance of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. But when we went to photograph Kelly and Alec’s first touch (a version of a “first look” where a couple doesn’t see each other) right near a fountain with a golden statue of St. Francis, Alec filled me in after they shared a few moments of beautiful tension. Alec spoke about St. Francis the same way that an environmentalist speaks about Jane Goodall, worshipping the person for what they mean to the natural world rather than elevating them as an idol outside the realm of natural phenomena. It was incredibly refreshing to see someone who holds a monotheistic belief system so close to their heart also share a deep love for Mother Nature.
Following the ceremony inside the church, the caravan climbed Boulder Creek Canyon Road to the reception hall a few minutes into the foothills of the Rockies. Wedgewood-Boulder Creek is an immaculately designed, accessible, and romantic setting to host one of life’s most precious gatherings. Upon entering the space you can hear the trickle of Boulder Creek, just as the friendly staff of the venue greet you with your favorite refreshments and libations. The flow of the property mimics the way the creek carves its way through the mountains, allowing for family and friends to naturally convene on patios and berms of fresh green grass. There is no doubt in my mind that St. Francis helped Kelly and Alec choose this venue to celebrate their love.
On a day where clouds were kept at bay, golden hour floated in the early evening air like lightning bugs on a summer night. We borrowed Kelly and Alec from their celebration for a few romantics down by the creek and thanks to their genuine chemistry we didn’t keep them for long. They spun and smiled and danced and frolicked. They kissed. They unabashedly enjoyed themselves, wrapping their arms around one another like vines around a tree. Undeniably in love, we laughed, snapped pictures, and danced with them. When love is as natural as the trees, the breeze, or the trickle of the creek, you better believe that you’re doing something right. If Kelly and Alec wouldn’t take credit themselves, I’m sure they’ll be thanking St. Francis for a long time to come.
AS SEEN IN COUTURE COLORADO MAGAZINE
Vendors:
Venue | Wedgewood - Boulder Creek
Dress | Madison James
Floral | Painted Primrose, Sabia Magrun
DJ/Band | Diamond Empire Band
Suit | Generation Tux
Rings | Shane Co.
Hair & Makeup | Serenity Salon- Arvada
Cake | Kelly Leigh Cakes
Oh Hey!
It’s us at the end of the night having the best time with Kelly & Alec.
Elk Meadow Elopement Photography in Colorado
Melissa & Matt’s Elopement | Evergreen, Colorado Elopements | Apollo Fields Wedding Photography
I am very excited to share not only the beautiful pictures from Melissa & Matt’s Colorado elopement, but also the guest blog from our dear friend and officiant, Carya:
“It was in the freezer aisle of Costco…
…snacking on yet another sample, that Melissa non-chalantly said to me, “Hey, I have a random question. Are you ordained in Colorado?” As it turns out, I am! And as we waited in line to check out, she told me of their plans to elope.
Melissa and Matt had been engaged for 5 years. And every time they sat down to start to plan a wedding, stress and anxiety quickly followed. Both born and raised in Colorado in big families, they knew that if they had a traditional wedding, it would be a dauntingly big affair. So a few months ago, they decided that what would honor them best is to go up into the mountains, just the two of them (and their sweet pup, Country), and tie the knot in the simplest way! Once they knew what they truly wanted, they spoke with their close family and friends to inform them of their plans.
I had only officiated one wedding before, and I absolutely loved it! As a yoga teacher, it felt very natural to mindfully guide a couple through such a special ceremony. So, of course, I was thrilled to be asked to preside over their wedding and for one of my best friends to ask me to be such an integral part of her big day! She has been there for me through so much, I was so grateful to be able to return the favor!
When I first asked Melissa if she had plans for photos, she said, “I just figured we would have you take a few shots after.” Thinking that would just not do, I knew just who to call! You never know when Heather is going to be in Colorado, maybe she will be around! If not, she will surely know someone! Melissa, Heather and I all worked together in Arvada and had become good friends, so when I told Heather that Melissa and Matt were eloping, she jumped into action. Because Heather is a legit Wonder Woman, on top of all the other work she does, she mentors other photographers who are just starting out. And since she would not be in Denver, she secured her mentee Carly, who happened to be free on a Tuesday evening around sunset with less than a week’s notice.
With photos in place, my focus turned to flowers. Every bride has to have flowers, no matter how small the wedding! I have done freelance wedding flowers for many years and I wanted to make a beautiful bouquet for Melissa. I had recently heard of an urban farmer growing beautiful flowers on her little farm in Arvada, CO. Since I follow Gina on Instagram, I reached out to her and she invited us out to her farm to pick flowers for Melissa’s bouquet. The day before the wedding, we met Gina early in the morning in her beautiful fields. She guided us through, naming all the flowers and then gave us clippers and a bucket and told us to take our pick!
As we walked up and down the rows of blooms, Melissa would stop and marvel at the beauty a specific flower. She fell in love with radiant dahlias and happy sunflowers and picked white lavender and sage to give her bouquet a beautiful aroma. Later, as I made the bouquet, I remembered how she chose each flower with such love and care. It was a beautiful experience and made her bouquet that much more special!
When the wedding day arrived, we met at Melissa’s mom’s house. Melissa got ready with her mom and sister while Matt and Country hung out in the back yard. Her sister placed a few flowers in her hair while her mom placed precious family jewelry around her neck. She joined Matt and Country in the back yard for their first look, sharing a sweet moment, however fleeting due to Country’s bounding excitement. Then we all shared a champagne toast with her family before climbing into Matt’s pickup and heading up to the mountains.
A few days prior, Melissa and Matt had traveled up to Evergreen, CO to look for the perfect spot for the ceremony. They chose Elk Meadow Open Space and found a small patch of trees, not far off the trail, with lichen covered rocks and a beautiful view of the meadow as a backdrop.
The ceremony was short and simple, with a heartfelt message to their families and a beautiful poem that the couple chose. Little Country was overcome with emotion and cried throughout the ceremony. A sweet mix of Melissa and Matt’s favorite love songs played softly as they professed their love to each other. A few tears were shed and before you know it, they were married!!!
While a champagne toast is great and all, this elopement was about being true to who Matt and Melissa are, and though they have their moments of poise and class, they are also country bumpkins at heart. So we busted out some Montucky ColdSnacks for them to toast this next chapter in their lives.
With daylight waning, they walked through the meadow hand in hand, enjoying the peace they created for themselves through this intimate setting. We gathered up our few things, and Country and I crawled into the backseat of the pickup, where he promptly fell asleep (all that crying is tiring!). Melissa summed up the day perfectly as she tapped Matt on the arm and exclaimed, “Holy crap, Babe, we’re married!”
Writing by: Carya Haas
Enjoy the photos from Mel & Matt’s elopement:
Photography: Associate shot by Carly for Apollo Fields
Florals: SheGrows
CO Elopement Location: Elk Meadow, Evergreen
Downtown Northport NY Engagement Photography
Sage & John's Engagement Photos in Downtown Northport | Long Island Engagement Photography | Apollo Fields Weddings
It was so much fun to capture Sage and John’s engagement in our very own hometown— Northport, NY. The downtown area really comes alive in the summer with tons of families and pups hanging around the docks and little main street shops. This couple is so sweet and down to earth that this setting was perfect and we really lucked out in terms of light for the night!
I loved getting to spend the evening with them, despite being covered in poison ivy (and literally running out of urgent care for our session!) and their company actually made me forget that I wanted to crawl out of my own skin! We popped up and down the main street area and caught the docks for a beautiful sunset on the water. After our shoot, we were able to grab a beer at our favorite local brewery, Sand City and chat about everything from commuter life on the island to wedding planning.
We’re so excited for Sage & John’s wedding in just a few short weeks and cannot wait to capture all of the amazingness then!
Enjoy their engagement pics below:
As seen in the Popped! blog