Danielle and Mark's Buffalo, NY Wedding at Marcy Casino at Delaware Park
I learned the story of Danielle and Mark’s relationship during their engagement session. It is a love story 16 years in the making. Meeting in college, professions of love expressed at the eleventh hour, someone choosing to walk away. Their lives went in different directions. They kept in contact off and on over the years. Then years after their paths took them apart, they found themselves standing in front of one another once again.
This time, they choose to walk forward together. Forever.
This wedding was a celebration of their journeys. It wasn’t about forgetting where they had been, it was about recognizing that they had to go through those experiences to be able to end up together. It was a beautiful expression of their love, their journey and their excitement at what lies ahead.
I happily flew out to Buffalo to spend the weekend with Mark and Danielle. They took incredible care of me while I was in town. I attended their rehearsal (which is always a huge bonus for me as a photographer), and was invited to their rehearsal dinner, which was so thoughtful and appreciated. We stayed and got ready at the remarkable The Mansion on Delaware Avenue. This hotel and staff was incredible (seriously the nicest place I’ve ever stayed!). The outside of the mansion looked like something out of a movie - it was a gorgeous spot for Danielle’s bridal portraits. The ceremony and reception took place at Marcy Casino at Delaware Park in the rose garden; a stunning spot for Danielle and Mark to promise their lives to one another. We also ran across the street to take some portraits on the property of the incredible Albright-Knox Museum.
In true Buffalo, NY fashion, the weather gave us a run for our money; first threatening rain, and then clearing the skies but bringing with it 30+mph winds and temperatures dropping into the upper 30’s. Danielle decided to forgo her veil, the bridesmaids threw beautiful pashmina’s over their shoulders and we hustled to get as many portraits as quickly as we could to take advantage of the beautiful light before we lost feeling in our fingers and toes. After we warmed up, we spent the rest of the evening laughing, wiping tears and dancing the night away. It was such an honor to be asked to not only capture, but also participate in their celebration. Thank you, Danielle and Mark for putting your trust in me. I wish you nothing but a lifetime of love, laughter and happiness.
Other Vendors
Bride's Dress: Victoria's Bridal Shoppe
Dress Designer: Allure Romance
Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Groom’s Suit: Hugo Boss
Hair: Care Frandina
Make-Up: Tara Rivera
Bakery: Dessert Deli
Florist: Flowers by Johnny
Photographer: Melissa Ortendahl Photography
