I had the wonderful opportunity of assisting my friend, Christina of Christina Keddie Photography, at a beautiful winter wedding in Princeton, NJ. Christina was 7.5 months pregnant at the time, so I was along to help capture some photos and assist her throughout the day. I wanted to help her document Richard and Dana’s wedding by covering different angles so that Christina didn’t have to run around so much. I also played lighting model and helped carry her gear. It’s hard carrying multiple cameras and lenses, or working on your feet for 9 hours when you’re NOT pregnant, but Christina made it look easy even with her adorable baby bump.

Richard and Dana had a gorgeous, sunny day for a December wedding. It was cool and brisk, but no snow even though we had all been hoping for some. I don’t say that often, but there’s just something magical about weddings and snow. Despite the lack of snow, this day was full of its own magic.

The bride and groom both prepared for their big day at the ceremony venue – the Stone Hill Church of Princeton. They were the first wedding to be held in the new church. See? Magical already.

I got to spend the beginning of the day with the groom and his attendants. What a fun bunch they were! Ladies, we complain about how long it takes us to get ready? I don’t think we give guys enough credit. It takes a lot of work for them to get ready too – cufflinks, button covers, suspenders, ties, vests, and pocket squares! Plenty of pieces for them to worry about, but their ensembles were very classy.

Then it was time for the ceremony. Goodness, I still get goosebumps just thinking about it. It was one of the most beautiful ceremonies I have ever witnessed. Richard and Dana have some amazingly talented friends who sang beautiful hymns. I felt like I was at a concert. The song choices and readings were so moving and emotional that tears actually came to my eyes and I fogged up my viewfinder.

The reception was held at the beautiful Cranbury Inn in Cranbury, NJ. I just adored all of the details in the couple’s wedding decor choices. They incorporated the wintery holiday season well with their literary theme. Their place cards and table centerpieces were named after their favorite couples from literature.

Their reception did not disappoint either! The room was filled with smiles and you could just feel the love and happiness in the air. Touching speeches, more songs sung together, and even a hilarious newlywed type game played by the bride and groom that had everyone in stitches. The couple then danced the night away with their friends and family.

Congratulations to Richard and Dana! Best wishes to you as you start your life together as husband and wife. Thank you to Christina for letting me join you at this wedding. I had so much fun shooting with you and hope we can team up again sometime! Check out Christina’s website for more photos from this beautiful wedding.