“She knew she loved him when home went from being a place to a person”- E. Leventhal
Looking out our window today, with snow covering the ground, it is hard to imagine that just a few short weeks ago we celebrated one of our final weddings of 2016. The warm smiles and sunny glow we captured during Shannon and Dan’s beautiful fall wedding is just what we all need to warm our hearts on this chilly day.
Tom and I each spent our morning with Shannon, Dan and their bridal party. The girls began their day at Shannon’s childhood home, where everyone treated me like family! We shared laughs and stories and all the bridesmaids helped each other and Shannon get ready. When Shannon’s wedding gown was on, it was a really beautiful moment to see her mom’s reaction, her expression was true happiness and love for her daughter on her wedding day. Shannon’s gown was seriously stunning, with an extravagant flowing detailed train, right up my alley, and even more so because she shared with me that it was from the Disney wedding collection…and if you know me you know Disney is my favorite! Dan and his groomsmen were getting ready at their house, but before suits went on, a little wedding day target practice was in order. Tom was having a blast hanging with all the guys as they took turns shooting guns towards the bullseye across the pond.
The ceremony took place at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church in Utica. From the very moment Shannon stepped out of the limo she was smiling from ear to ear, and as she made her way down the aisle arm in arm with her father, her smile only grew more (who would have known it could be possible!). During the ceremony Dan couldn’t take his eyes off his bride, and it was seriously adorable. With their first kiss as husband and wife the church erupted into cheers!
Then it was time for some pictures and a little down time back at Shannon and Dan’s home. We walked around their beautiful property with so many locations for photos and even got to take photos with Dan’s antique truck that he has been working on restoring over a long time. We loved the meaning behind it and how awesome it looked parked behind such a good looking wedding party! Speaking of the wedding party, they were incredible to work with, and even with the icy wind, everyone was more than willing to do whatever needed to get some great shots! With photos finished, everyone made time for a little celebratory cheers ( a little bit of hide and go seek with Shannon and Dan’s pet cat) and off we went to the reception.
When we arrived at the Radisson, the ballroom was totally transformed with gorgeous hanging drapery and unique glowing purple and silver tree centerpieces. Introductions that night had us laughing when Shannon’s sister came rolling in on a luggage cart and shared a sweet toast. After a wedding blessing, everyone sat down for a delicious dinner and even got a show during dinner; a really fun game where Shannon and Dan sat back to back and held up his or her shoe based on the answer of relationship questions. After dinner everyone was treated to an ice cream sundae bar- yum! The dance floor was packed all night and then the craziest thing happened, Dan and his groomsmen busted out a little “Magic Mike” moves for Shannon!
Shannon and Dan, thank you so much for inviting us to be a part of your beautiful day, and to have us capture so many amazing memories! You both have such kind hearts and we loved sharing in your day! We wish you so much love and happiness! Congratulations!
