When I first heard from Derek and Madison I was so excited that they were friends with one of previous Laura Lee Couples. Madison told me she was so in love with Rachael and Dillon’s engagement session and she knew I had to be their photographer. My heart swelled! We got to meet up and I knew right away that a great friendship was going to form. My relationship with Madison blossomed when she launched A&M Events, an event planning and design company. (Check them out!) We did some work together and I started to get SUPER excited about her wedding because she radiates positivity to everyone around her.  During the speeches, she was described as being “born with a smile on her face and a lot of love in her heart”. And I am SO glad that this love gets to be shared and shined on Derek.

I was pretty much drooling over these shoes! Badgley Mischka <3

So in love with the lace details on both these dresses!

And off with the guys…Thank you Tessie for doing such an amazing job and rocking this wedding with me!

I’m glad I wasn’t there for this because I definitely would have been crying. Again.

There are not enough words to describe Madison and Derek, but for starters, the first thing my second shooter said to me was “Oh my gosh, they are ADORABLE!” She is so right! They are both AWESOME individuals, but together, they are so radiant.  They are so easy and enjoyable to be around that my cheeks hurt by the end of the day! We had an absolutely gorgeous day out in Long Island for their wedding, which was held at Giorgio’s of Baiting Hollow. I had been here for a New Years wedding but I am so thankful I got to see it in the summer as well! The windmill, vineyards and grounds are gorgeous for pictures!

When the first look happened at Giorgio’s windmill Madison said “Do I look like your bride?”, through tears. Derek could not wipe the smile off his face as he spun her around to get the fullness of her beauty, and luckily I had a camera to hide behind so they couldn’t see me crying!

The more the day unfolded the more clear it became how amazing their friends and families are, how important they are to them, and how truly special they are as individuals. I (as usual) got emotional during every speech when Madison’s Maid of Honor, Jamie, who happens to be Derek’s sister, talked so positively about their relationship and about them as people. It fills my heart with joy to tell stories of such genuine love like theirs– I’m pretty sure Derek fist pumped into the air in excitement like the end credits of “The Breakfast Club” when they were announced husband and wife.  These reasons are why I love this job so much, my couples really have no idea what a positive impact they have on my life!

We totally lucked out with amazing weather the whole day, and the ceremony was set outside on the mainstage in Giorgio’s courtyard. Everyone was in awe as Madison walked down the aisle, radiating her own sunshine with every step.

We got to do a few more fun bridal party pictures scattered throughout the vineyards before swooping Derek and Madison away for some portraits. We had dreamy beautiful golden hour light (photographer’s dream!) and a perfect day! AH! You guys are serious so beautiful inside and out. Love Madison’s vision for these summery details!

The reception was par with the rest of the day. It was the most full dance floor I’ve EVER seen and everyone had a blast! Pete Moss and the Fertilizers were the band and they were incredible! I could have sworn that it was Bon Jovi singing Living on a Prayer at the end. It was a night and a day that no one wanted to end, but it did so with a crowded dance floor and a “Kruger” chant!

 

Madison and Derek, I can’t put into words how exciting it was being a part of your wedding day, you both truly radiate sunshine and joy every place you go and to every person you meet, at least I know you do for me. I can’t wait to see your future unfold and can’t wait for this friendship to continue! Hats off to you!

<3 Laura