http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm Jeremy Lawson Photography Blog en-us http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=637 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=637 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 01:20:00 GMT

It took a little coaxing...

Ok, a lot of coaxing!

And then it was over...

She wanted out of there!

Actually, she wanted to eat.

And then it was a whole new Elizabeth!

See you soon!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=636 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=636 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:00:00 GMT

Meanwhile, I was with Sarah. Stacy Pitt had finished up her hair and Carlo Geraci was getting started on her makeup.

Her Valentino shoes were perfectly polished and ready to be put on.

But the dress comes before the shoes.

Sarah put on her carefully chosen accessories to complete her bridal look....

While her bridesmaids waited patiently.

The finishing touch was an adorable jacket to keep her warm in the NYC winter while we photographed outside.

Time to meet up with Jason!

Jason was already there, eagerly anticipating his bride.

Jason couldn't keep his eyes off of Sarah as we began taking some pre-ceremony photos.

After Sarah and Jason had a few moments together, the bridal party joined up with us for group photos.

The entire group moved on...

...to Brooklyn Bridge Park.

There, we took some pictures with this legendary structure and the skyline of the city in the background.

And what a day we had, too! It was a bright, clear and crisp December afternoon.

As we moved on to our next location, Sarah kicked off her shoes. Just because they're gorgeous doesn't mean they're comfortable!

Sarah and Jason scouted some awesome locations. This was one of my favorites!

And the sun was in the perfect spot, too. I was having a great time playing with the light.

A shot of Jason and his groomsmen before moving on.

While we were walking, I had Sarah and her bridesmaids pose under this colorful awning. I couldn't just pass it by!

Braxton and I took full advantage of this spot.

A few moments later we arrived at the Metropolitan Building where Sarah and Jason were holding their ceremony and reception.

And I fell in love with the building right away. Sarah and Jason took me on a tour of the space before the festivities began.

Who doesn't love a good hall of mirrors?

Jason's father spotted us through the door.

Every room had a unique aesthetic and style.

Whew! Sarah took a minute to grab a seat. It had been a busy day so far... and we were just getting started!

A quick minute to catch our collective breath, and then it was time for the ketubah and bedeken.

The witness gathered and listened as the ketubah was read aloud prior to signing.

Sarah was absolutely beaming with excitement and happiness.

And Jason couldn't have been prouder.

Sarah's father gives her a congratulatory kiss.

With the ketubah signed, the guests prepared for the wedding ceremony.

Sarah's dad escorted her down the aisle and gave her away under the Chuppah where Jason was waiting for them.

Sarah observed the tradition of circling the groom three times when she reached the Chuppah.

Then the rabbi greeted the guests and the couple.

Sarah's proud father watched from the first row.

Jason's parents couldn't have been happier for their son as they watched him make his vows to Sarah.

Their ceremony space was gorgeous as well. Kate from Green Apple Weddings ... Events helped the couple with the planning and execution of the details.

The room was full of friends and family to share the day with Sarah and Jason.

The stringed lights from the ceiling was perfect. The ceremony looked incredible. I loved shooting it!

Jason and Sarah exchanged their rings...

...and then completed the ceremony with the traditional breaking of the glass. Mazel Tov!

The newlyweds took a few moments to themselves immediately after the ceremony to reflect on and celebrate their new union.

And Braxton and I set off to document cocktail hour. Guests were being guided from the floor of the building where the ceremony was held to the floor on which cocktail hour was being staged. A musician was on hand in the stairwell to provide some traveling music.

The drink selections for the cocktail hour were featured on this unique display.

Everybody was in a celebratory mood, too.

The guests all enjoyed cocktails, provided by Avril Kaye Catering while mingling.

I like this partygoer's style! Triple fisting? Wow!

We were also treated to a beautiful sunset...

...that gave way to a spectacular view of the lit-up skyline.

Specially designed packs of tissues were given out as favors. There were more than a few people who made good use of them!

A card monster with a big appetite took a seat on the gift table.

Sarah and Jason tracked down a freelance designer on Etsy who created their programs.

While the guests finished up with cocktail hour, the final touches were completed in the dining hall.

The centerpieces were complimented with flowers by Melarosa, who did all the floral design for the day.

The band Asefa was all set up and playing their hearts out.

It was time to dance the hora!

Sarah couldn't have been happier as she and her friends enjoyed the dancing festivities.

Next, Jason and Sarah put on their specially made t-shirts (and biggest smiles)...

...as their guests danced around them.

This much dancing takes up a lot of energy! It was the perfect time to refuel.

Jason found his bride in the crowd and led the way into the dining hall for the meal.

Once everyone was seated, Sarah's father began the speeches by thanking everyone for sharing the day with his family.

The microphone was passed on to Sarah's uncle who offered up his congratulations and best wishes to the newlyweds.

The speeches brought tears...

and laughter.

And more laughs!

Last up were Sarah and Jason, who expressed their appreciation for the love and support shown to them on their wedding day.

After dinner and a few speeches they danced the night away.

The guests all showed off their best moves to the music played by DJ Kenan from Les Loups.

Partygoers enjoyed drinks and dancing well into the night.

One of the last things we did before heading out for the night was round up everyone for a big group shot. And what a great group it was, too.

Thanks for sharing your day with us, Jason and Sarah! Braxton and I had a great time and wish you both the best as you begin your lives together as husband and wife!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=635 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=635 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:57:00 GMT

Izzy is a playful pup who loves her tennis ball...

...and she's fond of chasing her tail.

Look at her strike a pose.

And don't get me started on those eyes.

It was great to meet you, Izzy! Welcome to the family!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=634 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=634 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:55:00 GMT

Kloee was a good sport and ready to model.

Kayden needed some convincing, though.

He came around eventually, though.

They're both experts at making funny faces.

Thanks for spending some photo time with me, guys!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=633 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=633 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:46:00 GMT

Lily, the youngest member of the family, started things off with a little help from her mom.

Shaylyn, Lily's big sister was excited to open her gifts.

Kadyn loves Christmas. He had an easy time guessing what was wrapped in this package.

Brodie is a seasoned pro at opening gifts. Look at him tear into it!

Brodie is crazy for Christmas!

I hope everyone had a happy and festive holiday season! Everyone at Jeremy Lawson Photography is looking forward to sharing our 2012 with you!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=632 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=632 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:44:00 GMT

David tried to sneak in a quick kiss, but I caught him.

It was beginning to get a little chilly, so we took one last shot...

...before hailing a cab and heading out to our next destination.

We headed over to the Drake hotel to take advantage of their Christmas decorations in some pictures.

David and his family used to come to the Drake every Christmas to visit family and it still holds special significance for him.

After all that picture-taking, it felt good to get off our feet for a little while at The Elysian. This is also where David proposed to Megan!

Thanks for a great afternoon, Megan and David. I'll see you again this summer for your big day!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=631 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=631 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 02:41:00 GMT Locanda Verde the night before the wedding and we were happy to accept! We arrived just minutes before everyone else so we could take a few pictures of the table settings. The menu for the evening had our mouths watering.

The roaring fire in the hearth really added to the atmosphere of the room.

The guests began to filter in as we wrapped up our detail shoot.

The guests mingled and enjoyed drinks as they waited for the dinner to be served.

Her father pointed out a few of the guests to me.

There were lots of bright, smiling faces all around.

And even more smiles as the food was served.

As the guests dined, friends of the couple took the mic to give toasts in honor of the soon-to-be-married couple.

Jason beamed as he listened to the loving tributes.

Sarah had several people speak on her behalf.

Jason and Sarah were blown away by the outpouring of love from their family and friends.

The speeches were the perfect way to wrap up an evening of great food and company.

Sarah was glowing with happiness and excitement as the last of the speeches were given.

Braxton and I left the party and headed back to our hotel to rest up for the wedding. We knew that if the rehearsal dinner was that eventful, we were going to have a momentous wedding to document the next day.

Check back very soon to see the photos from Jason and Sarah's New York wedding!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=630 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=630 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 02:29:00 GMT engagement session with me a few weeks ago, got married at the beginning of the month.

Shawn from Lather was working on Lesley's hair and makeup when I arrived on the scene. I'm not sure what was being done in the photo below, but it looks painful.

But Lesley survived, and tended to the final details.

Meanwhile, Christian was getting ready. Here he is with his dad and grandpa.

Christian's grandfather handed over thirteen gold coins to his grandson before departing. This tradition, which originated in Spain, dictates that the groom gives the coins to the bride during the ceremony as a symbol of his trust in confidence in the union. By accepting them, the bride shows that she shares the same trust and confidence. The coins that are used are often family heirlooms that have been, and will be, used for generations.

With the coins stowed in a safe place, Christian headed out to the garden next to the Art Institute, where he was going to meet Lesley for the first time. The suit Christian wore was custom made... he was looking sharp.

And check out his shoes, too. The guy's got style!

Lesley was looking gorgeous, too, as she and her bridal party left the hotel where she was getting ready.

She made the short trip over to the park to meet up with Christian.

She did a twirl so Christian could see the full effect of the dress.

The three of us set out to take some pictures before the ceremony.

The bridal party caught up with us and joined us for some pictures too.

One of the groomsmen spotted a celebrity as we made our way into the downtown area.

I had the two of them pose for a few shots at the CTA stop before we jumped into the party bus.

Our happy couple joined the rest of the bridal party on the bus and we headed out to our last location before the ceremony.

The flower girl was having a great time checking out the sights and sounds of downtown Chicago.

Everyone jumped out at the LaSalle bridge...

...and posed for a group shot.

Lesley and Christian, who are expecting in February, had some shots taken of them and the baby bump.

Off to the ceremony!

Christian took his place at the altar when we arrived at the church. Here he is watching as Lesley makes her way down the aisle.

Lesley and Christian were married at St. Vincent de Paul Parish here in the city. Lesley was about to make her grand entrance!

It's such a beautiful church.

Lesley's nephew helped out his aunt and uncle by giving a reading.

Lesley's sister, who served as the maid of honor.

Lesley and Christian delivered their vows and exchanged rings...

...and they sealed the deal with a hug and kiss.

Congratulations!

Then the newlyweds and guests made their way out into the drizzly day to go to the reception.

I took a bouquet shot before we got on the party bus.

Tina and Dollie designed all the personal flowers for the wedding.

The reception was held at Salvatore's.

Inside, the tables were all set and ready for guests.

Aren't these centerpieces cool? Lesley and Christian made them by themselves.

The newlyweds make their big entrance into the reception.

They took their seats, and the best man kicked off the speeches by giving a toast in honor of the couple.

When speeches were complete, Lesley and Christian shared their first dance together.

Then the dance floor was opened up to everyone. And looks like some people were more interested in dancing solo that day.

Everyone had full bellies from the meal and were in a celebratory mood as they enjoyed drinks and each other's company.

One party goer tried to escape my camera without much luck.

I had a great time sharing your wedding day with you, Christian and Lesley. Congratulation on your marriage! Let me know when your newest addition makes their big debut!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=629 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=629 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 02:00:00 GMT

Braxton knew a great spot to check out, but it required some effort to get to.

Good think Mari wore her climbing shoes!

Check 'em out!

They were having a great time, but someone was missing...

....their dog Franklin!

Franklin was all dressed up and ready for the wedding. Look at his bow tie!

Brian, Mari and Franklin made their way to Asrai Garden where they were holding their ceremony.

Franklin was there, too.

Asrai Garden is a gorgeous flower shop... and a wonderful place to get married!

Brian and Mari share a hug after the rings and vows were exchanged. Congratulations!

They had plenty of memorable details on their wedding day.

Asrai Garden made a perfect backdrop for most of them!

Asrai Garden has some very cool taxidermy hanging on it's walls...

...and guarding the shop.

And don't forget about the flowers.

And then it was time for the reception at Bangers and Lace.

Bangers ... Lace is known for their extensive beer list, from which guests could take their pick.

The newlyweds welcomed their guests as they entered the restaurant.

The DJ played the hits that kept the guests dancing, too.

Everybody was having a great time.

Can you spot all the fierce poses in this picture?

Mari and Brian do some dirty dancing.

The guests enjoyed beer and music well into the night.

Thanks for having Braxton document your big day, Mari and Brian, and congratulations on your marriage!

The ceremony was intimate, with close friends and family .

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=628 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=628 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 01:58:00 GMT

Here she is, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.

We took Sugar to the park for her photoshoot.

And we couldn't resist giving her a turn on the playground equipment.

Peek-a-boo!

Oh, man, taking pictures is exhausting.

It was nap time for Sugar. She put on her sassy pink sweater and called it a wrap.

It was great meeting you, Sugar! Come visit anytime!

]]>