Maybelle & Mark chose Washington Park in Albany for their intimate summer wedding, but the forecast had other plans. A sudden heat wave had settled over the country, followed by powerful thunderstorms. By the morning of the wedding, there was an 80% chance of rain, strong winds, and hail, all expected around their ceremony and portrait time.
But Maybelle maintained her smiles and big hugs with everyone around her. Surrounded by her bridesmaids and sister, she remained positive throughout the morning. Her excitement helped everyone relax and prepare for whatever the day had in store.
Inside, the couple’s creativity was already on display. A large box held giant playing cards, vines, Polaroid cameras, and mirrors for their Alice in Wonderland themed reception, perfectly reflecting their love of imagination and art.
By the time everyone arrived at Washington Park, the clouds had begun to break. Maybelle’s bridesmaids surrounded her with a giant umbrella as she entered the boathouse for the first look, making sure Mark couldn’t see her. When he finally turned around, he immediately broke down in tears. At that exact moment, the sun came through the clouds, giving them beautiful weather for their portraits.
Under the trees of Washington Park, Maybelle walked down the aisle with her father as their closest friends and family gathered around them. Their dog Ria served as the ring bearer, while one of their closest friends officiated the ceremony. Through tears, they exchanged their vows and shared their first kiss before walking through a tunnel of bubbles created by their guests.
The celebration continued at Blue and Black Steak and Crab, decorated in their Alice in Wonderland theme. With a small guest list, the reception felt personal, creative, and full of the same warmth that defined the rest of their day.
But the celebration was also a farewell. Maybelle and Mark were preparing to leave New York for Las Vegas to pursue their careers as artists. Before the night ended, their guests filled a keepsake book with Polaroid photographs and messages, giving the couple something to carry with them from home.
Maybelle & Mark, I wish you both all the best on this next chapter. Keep creating, keep imagining, and best of luck in Las Vegas!
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