The beautiful thing about being a wedding photographer in New York Metro Area is always finding a new venue to photograph our couples. We were nothing less than thrilled knowing that Kim and Matt was getting ready at The Beekman Tower Hotel in Manhattan. If you ask any photographer that’s worked there, the amount of hoops to jump through to get insurance and permit for that location would deter most people, however for our couples, nothing stops us short of an act of God! Not only did the knowledge of photographing at The Beekman get us excited, but getting the vibe that the bride had 100% trust in us and our vision, guidance, and talent, giving us ample time dedicated to the photo session. This is the perfect scenario for any wedding, and we made it absolutely a kick ass session.
Kim booked the Turret Penthouse West at the Beekman. The two story loft was cozy, inspiring, and beautiful. The entrance through a greenhouse transported us from a blistering winter climate to a tropical summery escape. Just from the getting ready photos, we knew we were dealing with a fashion-model-look bride but constant giggle and laughter of a happy girl that just cant wait to get married to her best friend. We arrived extra early at the venue to scope out the must-shoot locations. Once we settled on a battle plan between the two of us, we were comfortable directing the couple for their first look and their portrait session between multiple levels of the hotel, getting the perfect shots from two different floors. The portrait session then moved into the Penthouse greenhouse, which felt like a completely different part of the world. The natural light bathing the wisteria covered roof, like a scene out of Bridgerton, created magical photos where the couple could just relax in private and really show their true affection for each other. We understand the psychology of people in front of cameras, so we take the opportunity to give our couples space and privacy whenever there is a chance to unwind. During their intimate moments together with no public eyes around, we are able capture the most authentic moments between the two of them.
We love it when couples include personal touches to their day, be it from sentimental objects, to special locations. Kim and Matt took a brisk stroll through sub-freezing weather back to where they first met each other. In their beautiful wedding gown and suit, we squeezed through the crowded bar at Puffy’s Tavern, into the cozy back aisle where the dart board will always have a special place in their heart. Nothing beats a crowed of strangers cheering you on because everyone roots for love!
We finally arrived at the couple’s wedding venue, Bottino in Chelsea New York. Kim mentioned how she loves venues that are perfectly sized for the guest list, not too big where it felt empty, or too small where it felt tight. Kim was right, she picked a venue perfectly fitter to her just like she picked the perfect wedding dress for her. The trend of having no bridal party is quite a relief on logistics and photos, we gladly embrace it! Her intimate ceremony really speaks to their personality of catering the special day to the actual important people in their lives. The dance floor was packed and filled with love and excitement. Kim and Matt definitely did not forget about their dog named Cabbage, taking a bite out of their cake! Lastly as a vendor, we couldn’t have asked for a more professional staff at Bottino, and last but not least, the absolutely amazing food provided to us.
I think we, as photographers, loved the wedding so much that we were giddy for the next couple of days. I can’t imagine how much on cloud nine Kim and Matt must have been, especially since we deliver the sneak peek within 24 hours!
Hotel: Beekman Tower Hotel
Venue: Bottino
