Josh and Mark are an amazing couple. Their quiet admiration and love of each other is apparent at first glance. Their humility and kindness is what makes them cherished friends to many. And their obscene talent at creating both gorgeous and delicious things is off the charts. 

Josh is a baker, and I was first introduced to him in the kitchen at Buzz Bakery. He was the company's baker, and whipped up some of the most amazing creations. Photographing his treats (the apple pie photo, for those of you who have been following this blog for some time), was, indeed, a treat for me. 

But before long, I got to know Josh as a friend, and am so lucky to have done so. He gives freely of himself, supporting everyone around him in their endeavors. I met Mark a bit later, and it was apparent to me from the very start that he's the perfect partner for Josh. 

Needless to say, it was such a pleasure to be asked to photograph their wedding at JW Marriott here in Washington, DC. An intimate celebration with fewer than 25 guests, the wedding was full of perfect details and infused with spirit. After being driven indoors (into the hotel suite!) by the wild storms on Saturday night, it was quickly apparent that an already intimate plan was going to become more so. And was it ever. All of the guests could hear the vows clearly, see the couple easily, and were truly witnesses to this monumental step. Many congratulations Mark and Josh, it was a perfect day. 

Mark talks with his hands. 

XO cufflinks for Josh.

Traditional type-set cufflinks for Mark. M and I, his initials.

Mark's niece, the precious flowergirl, and his brother. 

 The flower girl was having NONE of walking down the aisle. She instantly picked up her legs and dad had to walk her down the aisle. It certainly added charm to the ceremony.

 My favorite picture from the ceremony.

 The original ceremony location - post rains!

 My favorite picture from the day. 

 Josh was most excited about the table at The Source, a Wolfgang Puck restaurant. 

The guests said that the meal was unbelievably good. 

 Flowers by the always amazing Petal's Edge.

 The broach on the cake is Mark's grandmother's. She couldn't attend the wedding, so was there in spirit. 

Venue: JW Marriott, Washington, DC

Reception Venue: The Source

Flowers: Petals Edge

Cake: Kendall Barrett

I love going home. To my first home, where I come from. What makes it even better is to share in the celebration and love of some great friends. My friends Jessica and Brian were married a few years ago (blog post here) in Canandaguia, New York, on the same lake I was married on in 2001. A few weeks ago, I traveled back, this time to Sodus Point, to photograph the wedding of their friends. These beautiful kids, Chris and Beth, are also the siblings of two friends of mine from way back (elementary school?!). It's amazing to see the union of not only two people, but their families as well.

The Groom

The first look

Dad and daughter, glancing at their family as they walk down the aisle. 

 The gorgeous venue was the historic lighthouse in Sodus Point.

 The small, sweet bridal party. Drew (on left) is the grooms' older brother. I think I met him in 1983. What a great day it was, to catch up with old friends and witness such happiness.

 This is the second time I've seen homemade jam as a favor. I LOVE this idea. 

So personal, sweet and useful. 

 I photographed Brian (on right) and Jessica's wedding back in 2010. Since then, they've added a sweet addition to their family. Presley is looking like a tough little cookie, hanging out with the boys.

 The first dance.

 The gorgeous reception site.

 Lots of pies for dessert!

 Father and daughter

 Mother and son

 Chris and Beth, thank you so much for including me in your day. It was spectacular, perfect, gorgeous, and so you. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness! 

-s