Photographing this Crested Hen Farms Wedding was nothing short of amazing. Not just because of the great weather, amazing food and beautiful scenery… but because the bride is one of my very best friends.

I remember when Alexia first started dating Dan. Although I was in Chicago while the two resided in NYC, I loved hearing about their dates and the way that he really made Alexia feel like herself.

Their Story

“The date where I knew I wanted to be exclusive was at dinner in a beautiful restaurant in New York,” she had told me. “We ate bone marrow (which I had never tried) and roast chicken. At the end of the meal, Dan revealed that he also had wine and cheese that he had chosen for us to try back at his home while we watched a movie. He made me feel so so special… and he still does! He’s also the smartest guy I know. Dan is silly, charming, and unbelievably driven– when he wants something, he goes for it whole-heartedly. He supports me in everything I do and truly inspires me to be the best version of myself.

We’ve supported each other at our highs and lows and both encourage each other to be better. We’ve traveled abroad to places like Japan and Israel, moved cross country together and back, eaten our way through NYC and every place we visit. One might think a car ride across the country in 5 days with a geriatric cat would be miserable, but with Dan, trips like this are a blast. We are a pair of adventurers/explorers with our sights set on seeing the world and building a vibrant life together!”

Getting Ready + First Look

Alexia decided to keep things simple and go without a wedding party. As her photographer and friend, however, I truly felt like a bridesmaid! I beat her to her parent’s Airbnb where she would be getting ready. The moment she walked in the door I started hysterically crying. There was my friend, my GORGEOUS Alexia on her wedding day (I was a little embarrassed because I was the only one crying!). My other favorite memory of Alexia getting ready is when I asked her about her dress: “Is there a train?” I asked. “Oh just like a little one,” She said. “Nothing too big.” She puts on the dress and OH MY GOODNESS WHAT A TRAIN! My jaw was on the ground.

Closer to the venue, Dan got ready at a separate house while reading the very special note Alexia had written him. He went over to the venue and waited for Alexia to arrive. While he was still facing away, she read the sweet + private note he had written her. Dan then turned around with the BIGGEST smile on his face!

We spent the next hour or so running around the venue, taking portraits and family photos in front of their chuppah. Before guests arrived, the bride and groom signed their ketubah with their immediate family members in attendance. Months prior, Alexia had asked me to sign their ketubah as a witness– an incredible honor that still makes me emotional to this day. The two then hid away as friends and family began to arrive for their ceremony.

Crested Hen Farms Wedding

After a short + sweet ceremony, Alexia and Dan sat underneath a tree near the riverbed to have a moment (and a beer) to themselves. They eventually joined their guests for cocktail hour chatted with some friends. Once the reception space was ready inside the barn the couple made their entrance and had their first dance. A few speeches from parents opened up the night as everyone got dinner. More speeches from friends ended the dinner portion of the evening as the dance floor came to life! Soon after, the vintage ice cream truck arrived! I’m pretty sure it was carrying some of the last Choco Tacos left on the face of the earth. Guests also made sure to enjoy the cookies that were made from scratch by Alexia’s mom!

This Crested Hen Farms wedding day was unforgettable. I love knowing that my friend gets to spend the rest of her life with her amazing husband. Mazel Tov to Mr. + Mrs. Cook!

Venue: Crested Hen Farms / Hair + Makeup: JEM Hair Studio / Florals: Homegrown Floriculture / Dress: Vagabond Bridal / Shoes: Loeffler Randall / Suit: Suit Supply / Catering: Lola’s Cafe & Catering / DJ: JTD Productions, DJ Doug Yoel / Ice Cream Truck: Vintage Sweet & Treats

Crested Hen Farms Wedding