A Cozy Summer Backyard Wedding Filled with Kindness & Community

Hailey & Connor

Backyard Wedding | Cambridge, New York | Upstate NY

Treat others with kindness and kindness will find its way back to you!

I think this was the main theme for Hailey & Connor’s wedding day. Immediately upon entering Hailey’s grandparents’ house, I was greeted by her grandfather and uncle. Everyone had spent the previous day (including Hailey & Connor) setting up the reception tent and getting everything ready for the big day!

One thing I noticed immediately was how much everyone was game to make this day go as smoothly as possible. Hailey’s hair and makeup was running a little late, but her mother handed me a box of bridal details ready to go in case there were any delays! You can really find out who a bride is based on the details you’ve been asked to photograph. Hailey holds a lot of sentimental moments near and dear to her heart. A necklace that was gifted to her when she was younger, and pins that were holding the bouquet together were the same pins used on a dress that marked an important time in her life.

Even down to the location where the wedding was – the grandparents’ house – this entire day was made up of details connected to each other in their own special way. Nothing was overlooked!

Eventually, I was greeted by Hailey when she arrived from hair and makeup, and she welcomed me with a big hug. She had the same energy as the day we did our engagement session—although this time, it wasn’t downpouring and overcast. In fact, you couldn’t have asked for better weather: blue skies and no humidity!

I think Hailey and Connor’s first look was one of the most emotional I’ve seen. Connor is usually more reserved, but he couldn’t help shedding a tear when he saw Hailey in her beautiful dress. The emotions continued as they read their vows to each other. Hailey and Connor wanted this moment to be private, which I think really says something about them. Around each other, they both find a way to let their guard down, without needing any outside validation or input. It’s a special type of love that truly can’t be put into words!

During the ceremony, the attention to detail continued. The day was quite sunny, and the ceremony took place in direct sunlight, so Hailey and Connor left fans and sun umbrellas at the entrance for guests to use – which I’m pretty sure almost everyone took advantage of! As Hailey walked down the aisle with her father, the beautiful sun backlit her dress and veil. At the very end of the aisle, she reached out her hand to her stepfather, wanting to walk with both of them, symbolizing the important roles they have each played in her life.

After the ceremony, I had a chance to photograph the reception area while it was still empty. This is where the personalization really shined. They had every type of food you could think of, ranging from casual to more formal wedding cuisine – an open bar, a Keurig machine with plenty of options, cake, cupcakes, and that’s just the food! There were spaces for dancing and lounging in the reception area, but for guests who wanted to just casually hang out, there was a foosball table, cornhole (with boards that had their names on them), and even an outdoor video game lounge. It was so much fun watching their friends play Super Smash Bros. while chilling on the couch!

I think what really struck me throughout the day was the friendliness and hospitality that Hailey and Connor, along with their family, shared. You could tell that everyone wanted this day to go as smoothly as possible. I kept hearing their friends and family say, “Anything for Hailey!” and “Whatever Connor wants, I’m game!” You don’t receive that kind of energy and help without giving it yourself.

Speaking of being game, I have to thank Hailey and Connor for really trusting me with the bride and groom portraits. Because of the direct sun, it was quite difficult to get that glowy sunset look without the images being too washed out. Eventually, after a long and tiring day, I had to walk them both out to the side of the road to stand in a bunch of tall weeds. I’m sure they felt a bit silly at first, but eventually, we all embraced the craziness!

As the evening wrapped up, I don’t think I saw a single lonely guest in the room. Everyone had someone to talk to, and everyone found something to enjoy – whether it was dancing, socializing, or playing a chill video game out in the field. That’s truly special on a wedding day, making sure no one feels left out. Even those who couldn’t be there physically had a special memorial table dedicated to them, proudly lit by a candle for everyone to see. And all of this took place on Hailey’s grandparents’ property, which I’m sure holds a special place in her heart.

If you’re a friend of Hailey and Connor, you can trust that your presence will never go unnoticed by them. Even if it’s just a subtle gesture, Hailey, Connor, and their family will make sure everyone is well taken care of whenever anyone stops by!

Dress | Morilee

Florist | Cambridge Flower Shop

Reception Venue | Bullseye Party

Hair & Make Up | Maneattractionzz

DJ/Entertainment Services | John Wooddell

Cake | Bella Napoli Bakery

Catering | Pies On Wheels

Bridesmaids Dresses | David’s Bridal

Groomsmen Attire | Danielle’s Bridal

Invitations | Kingsbury Printing

Other Vendors | Stone Industries

I’m dedicated to making your Wedding or Portrait session in Albany, Upstate NY, and beyond, a smooth, personalized, and memorable experience. Ready to capture your special moments? Get in touch here!

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Thank you for reading!

-Raf