sarah tew photography

Mallory & Rory planned an elegant September wedding at a former Vanderbilt mansion that is now the Pine Hollow Country Club, and the day couldn’t have been more lovely.  I arrived early to scout spots for portraits and was delighted by a staircase to the right just after entering– I knew I’d be able to make something gorgeous there with Mallory once she had her dress on and sure enough, these are some of my favorites pictures of the day.  I also loved that she gave her father, Bill, a sweet first look with her in the bridal suite before heading outside with me for the first look– his reaction to seeing his beautiful daughter in her wedding gown was priceless!  Outside the weather was gorgeous and I was able to take the happy couple to a few different pretty spots for portraits alone before gathering their family to do the list of group pictures they had requested.  Once finished with this, it was time for a short rehearsal followed by a Ketubah signing indoors with their Rabbi while guests arrived and made their way to the ceremony location.  The ceremony itself couldn’t have been more beautiful, what with the sun going down and the lanterns with candles along the aisle.  Mallory and Rory read beautiful vows they’d written themselves before sealing their marriage with a kiss after Rory did the traditional “breaking of the glass.” Guests were led into the mansion where they were treated to a fabulous cocktail hour complete with a raw bar and other delights, while the happy couple took a few minutes to themselves to celebrate their newlywedded bliss.  As soon as I heard the band warm up I knew we were in for a treat during the reception– Luxe is one of Hank Lane’s outfits, and they did not disappoint!  Mallory and Rory’s first dance was followed by a lively traditional Hora, complete with chair-lifting of not just the bride and groom but their parents and her grandmother as well.  The rest of the evening unfolded in a beautiful flow of dining punctuated with moving toasts, interwoven with dance sets that hit all the right notes.  After sharing some special dances with their parents, Mallory and Rory cut their wedding cake and dessert was served. I took an opportunity to steal them outside for a few quick night portraits before returning them to enjoy the end of their party, punctuated by a raucous rendition of “Shout!” that delighted everyone on the dance floor.  Congratulations to Mallory and Rory! I was so honored to capture this beautiful wedding!