Well hi again, everyone! Yes, it has been some time since my last post. Life has been extremely crazy and following the events of December of 2022, Rick and I have stepped back slightly from photographing weddings to focus on family.
But, let's go back to August of 2022 when this amazing couple had just become newlyweds. Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Butler!
I absolutely loved photographing Maggie and Nathan's wedding at The Estate at Eagle Lake, in Chesterfield, NJ. Nestled amidst serene waters and lush greenery, the lakeside venue provided a picturesque backdrop that perfectly captured their love story. The shimmering lake, framed by majestic trees and blooming flora, set a romantic tone for the festivities, creating a serene oasis where dreams became reality.
Maggie and Nathan grew up down the road from one another - their younger sisters were friends. Maggie always had a big crush on Nathan but nothing ever happened. The two ran into each other at the gym in the summer of 2017 where Nathan used a silly pick up line on Maggie and the rest is history. Nathan popped the question on Christmas after spending the day with their families. Maggie said she could tell he was nervous and told him he was being weird, which was at the point when Nathan got down on one knee. Nathan claims he was nervous because he wasn't sure what knee to get down on and panicked. All turned out well though.
The couple chose to do a first look before the ceremony. According to Maggie, "I would have thrown up walking down the aisle if they didn't. It was still super nerve-wrecking, but you get to have that moment privately instead of in front of 200 people. I am such an empathetic person that I was afraid my emotions would take a hold of me if we didn't see each other before the ceremony. I'm so glad we did. Plus, we got to spend the whole cocktail hour with our guests."
Their wedding day was perfect.
This amazing day would not have been possible without the help from:
Venue: The Estate at Eagle Lake
Photography: Brittany Harmening Photography - Brittany and Rick were great! They worked so fast and got the groomsmen and bridal party pictures done at the same time and then the family pictures without both the bride and the groom done separately so when it came time to come together there weren't many more to take! They made us feel really comfortable and also the family members in the shot who you could tell didn't know what they were doing you knew exactly what to tell them. Plus Rick kept us all laughing the whole time!
Cake Maker: Diane's Patisserie
Wedding Planner: Works of Love - Brianna helped me plan throughout the whole entire process. I texted her a million times with every question you could think of. She never hesitated to respond. She is the nicest person and was just a pleasure to work with. She also was just a nice face to see whenever Nathan and I were at the venue. She really went above and beyond for us.
Day of Coordinator: Divas with the Details - Treanna was such a god-sent. Her and her team took everything I had planned out of my hands and just executed it perfectly. It was the absolutely most stree-free day. They also transported all my decor back to my house the next day.
Dress: Maggie Sottero Style Josephine Lynette
Bridal Shop: Bridal Suite Boutique - I had always seen myself in something super classic and sleek looking. Being a plus-size bride I was very nervous going dress shopping. I told my consultant exactly what I liked, but I would try on anything! I tried on everything beyond the sun before even getting to the style I liked just to cross things off my list. She carried in my dress and I said "Wow that is exactly what I love I hope that looks good on me" and as soon as she put it on I knew I had to get that one. It was exactly what I described! and bonus: POCKETS! I did cry, lol.
Limo Service: First Student Charter Bus Rental
Dress Alterations: Jaizelle Hanna - My first dress appointment got canceled at the last minute due to a death in the seamstress' family. I very quickly had to find a replacement alterations store. Jaizelle was recommended by a friend and the minute I walked into my appointment she made me feel so comfortable and informed me all the different ways we could make the dress look. She was so kind, and worked so quick. She made sure I loved the way I looked in the top of dress before she started the rest of the alterations. She was amazing!
Hair and Makeup: Blush Brides - Alaina is amazing!!!! Alaina and I met years ago at work. When planning the wedding I knew I had to book her. She nailed my hairstyle without me even having to explain it in super detail. I wanted a very natural, but still make up looking look and she also nailed that. She stayed for touch-ups and after pictures touched up a few things and I still was looking gorgeous! I looked perfect. Her and her crew did and amazing jobs with my girls.
“It was everything I could have ever wanted. It was a perfect day,” says Nathan.
I wish Maggie and Nathan many more years of love and happiness!!
New Jersey Wedding Photographers