It’s hard to know where to begin this post. Ellen and Joe’s wedding at Old Tappan Manor this weekend was everything anyone could have hoped for. Nearly six years ago at this point, I had the pleasure of meeting and becoming friends with Joe, one of Scott’s best friends for over 20 years now (I think that’s correct!). I came to know him as one of the funniest guys I’ve ever met, always determined to make everyone laugh with horribly corny jokes. My personal favorite joke in reference to a baseball pitcher: “I’ve seen better arms on a chair!”

A little over 2 years ago though, things shifted when Joe and Ellen started dating. And the best part is that this was years and years in the making. Joe was in CCD class in middle school with Ellen’s mom as his teacher, and then come high school years, Ellen’s best friend actually tried to get them to go to prom together. They both denied any sort of relationship and carried on with life, attending college, and starting their careers. Then by chance, fate kept bringing them back together, when they realized they commuted on the same bus into the city. They started sitting with each other, Joe constantly trying to make Ellen laugh, and then eventually, they became inseparable.

Joe proposed last year right before Christmas on the bus that they met! He asked Ellen if she wanted a snack and then pulled out the most stunning ring instead!!! I was so happy to share in their excitement the next day when I got to see them at a Christmas party, and I have loved getting to watch their love story unfold ever since.

To say I’m thankful and honored that I got to be a part of this incredible day would be a huge understatement. Not only are Scott and Joe lifelong friends, but Scott was in the wedding party, along with his brother, and 4 of their best friends. On Ellen’s side, things were equally special because I got to photograph Ellen’s sister, Allison’s wedding a year ago, and will be photographing her cousin Liz’s wedding this October! So not only do I dearly love the Bride and Groom, but I knew the entire wedding party, and both families as well!! So this wedding day was extra extra special for me (and I’m honestly starting to tear up writing this!!)

The day started at Ellen’s parents house where the girls got ready, while the guys got ready at Joe’s parents. They exchanged letters, shed tears (as did I and everyone else) and got ready amongst their best friends and family.

Soon after, the limo arrived to take everyone to the first look location, and Ellen hopped in my car. We got to the park, got Joe in place and when he turned around to see Ellen he put his hands over his face and exclaimed “Oh my god!!!”. The walked toward each other and embraced in a hug that brings me to tears. (Anddddd now I’m crying. Again.)

From there, we took wedding party pictures, and then went to the church where they had a Catholic Mass performed by Father Ray.

After the ceremony, we went to Old Tappan Manor where we finished up their Bride and Groom portraits and family formals. And I just about died with this light. I mean, SERIOUSLY?!?! Everything about the day went so so smooth. Even the rain decided to stop just minutes before we had to take pictures!!

The reception was held in the Grand Ballroom at Old Tappan Manor and the party never stopped. I got to double as a guest and a photographer so I changed halfway through and put my dancing shoes on. It was the party of the year and the Westwood reunion of a lifetime and I couldn’t be happier to have been a part of it.

Ellen and Joe, I couldn’t be happier that you have found your soul mate in one another and I’m so excited for everything to come for the two of you. I can’t wait to continue being a part of your life and adventures and wish you all the happiness in the world.