The past few months have been a confusing time for everyone in the wedding industry, both couples, their families, and us vendors. We know that many of our couples are affected by the uncertainty of whether they will be able to move forward with their dream weddings. It can be so stressful, as if wedding planning weren’t stressful enough! So to all of our Covid Couples, just keep hanging in there guys. We will get there, and it will be all the more amazing for the wait.
But all of this uncertainty is why I was so thankful that Michelle and Nick were able to tie the knot last week at the gorgeous Bell Tower on 34th. While there were concessions made in light of the pandemic, with a few missing loved ones, guests spaced at every other row, some in masks, and hand sanitizer placed strategically around the venue, still it was definitely a day of joyful celebration.
Nick proposed to Michelle during Christmas, her favorite time of year. Neither of them is from Houston, and when Michelle went home to New York for the holidays Nick told her he was visiting his family in Colorado. On Christmas Day they planned to video chat that evening. When the time came, Nick told her he was having internet issues. He suggested she go downstairs in her parents’ home to find a gift he’d left for her under the tree.
“This was unusual because we don’t give each other Christmas gifts (we plan experiences/trips instead). Still not realizing what was going on I went downstairs. I turned around and Nick was there. It hadn’t hit me yet, so my first response was “What are you doing here?” Then he proposed in front of the Christmas tree in my parent’s living room.“
Nick had asked for Michelle’s parents’ blessing the last time they visited NY together, so they knew what was going to happen for months.
“Guess they are good secret keepers because I had no clue! Nick did go to Colorado for a couple days before but spent the entire day of Christmas in the airport to get to NY. Christmas is my favorite holiday so he thought that would be the most special time to propose.”
Girl, you know you’ve got a good one when he spends Christmas in an airport to surprise you. That’s love.
Michelle has impeccable tastes and wanted an eco-friendly yet elegant affair. Southern Blooms Co. created blush and cream wooden bouquets, a trend that I hope catches on in 2021.
“The florals were one of my favorite parts”, Michelle says. ” The bouquets, corsages, and boutonnieres were all made from sola wood. It was great because 1. We didn’t have to worry about them wilting in the Texas heat and 2. We can keep them forever. My plan is to take the loose flowers and put them into a few shadow boxes that we can display in our home.”
The groom looked like James Bond in his black tux by the aptly named Black Tux. You just can’t go wrong with a classic like that. In my opinion, a tux is one of the best ways to add a touch of class and elegance to your wedding that won’t break the bank. Suits are great, don’t get me wrong, but nothing beats a tux. Guys stand differently in a tux.
Michelle looked effortlessly beautiful in her lace fitted gown by Allure. The style of lace fell somewhere between classic and bohemian, and the mermaid cut highlighted her amazing figure. I kept chirping with excitement during her bridal portraits because the girl just looks bananas gorgeous from every angle.
Their wedding day was filled with so many sweet, special moments and a couple of super adorable kiddos.
“There were so many amazing parts of our day, but I will say the most special moment was our First Look. I’ll never forget the look in Nick’s eyes when he turned around to see me. It was so sweet to have that moment just the two of us. When I asked Nick this question, he also said the First Look was his favorite part of the day. Considering he had no idea what a First Look was when we started planning, I’d say that is a win!”
Ah, boys.
As a photographer who strongly advocates for a First Look, this is music to my ears. The moment he sees you in your dress is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and I personally think it’s so much more special and memorable to have that in a more private setting, (okay, okay, with just one or two ninja-quiet photographers creeping through the bushes).
Later at the reception the maids of honor did a hilarious rap-style toast to the tune of Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. I hope someone got that on video. It was pretty awesome. Afterwards the newlyweds passed around glow foam sticks and danced for most of the night!
Wedding Planner: Donna Chun (Bell Tower Coordinator) Second Shooter: Annie Lui Officiant: Derek Glenn Bridal Hair + Makeup: Katelyn Bergeson (Bell Chic) Caterer: The Bell Tower Wedding Cake: Who Made the Cake Band/DJ: David Settle (DJS Entertainment) Ceremony Arrangements - Daisy Soriano (Gallery Flowers) Bouquets – Southern Blooms Co. Dress: Allure Bridals Bridal Shop: Heart to Heart Wedding Rings/Jewelers: Tiffany & Co. Bridesmaid style: Azazie Groomsmen attire: The Black Tux Stationary: CatPrint Transportation: Uber Black Shoes: Badgley Mischka Jewelry: Olive + Piper Veil: DarethColburnDesigns
Light and airy Houston, Texas wedding and engagement photographer, luxury wedding photographer,
Absolutely beautiful!!!