As I look forward to my 2018 couples and weddings, I'm FINALLY getting around to featuring all of the gorgeousness and awesomeness of my 2017 couples!

The 2017 wedding season began early for me with this stunner of a wedding! With glorious Gowanus, Brooklyn as their backdrop, this Astoria, Queens couple gathered 120 of their nearest and dearest to celebrate their union at what has easily become one of my favorite wedding venues, The Green Building, which had a former industrial life as home to the Brass Foundry. The bride had a hand in every design detail - from consulting with her florist (Petals & Roots) on the tablescapes, to selecting chargers, flatware, lighting, signage, and welcome table decor - at every turn the choices felt uniquely like the bride and groom.

April showers came early for this late March wedding, moving the first look and all formal photos indoors while I oversaw final venue preparations (including place carding each seat at the table with my handwritten calligraphy). The ceremony, officiated by a mutual friend, was deeply heartfelt, from the couple's written vows, to the groom selecting a surprise song for his soon-to-be wife to process down the aisle to (inside scoop: she recognized it immediately and knew its meaning).

After vows, we flipped the room effortlessly, converting it from formal ceremony seating to reception space, all while guests noshed on delicious food and drink from Brooklyn's own Pies 'n' Thighs (who also catered the buffet dinner). Toasts, dances, and cake cutting followed, until the couple opened the dance floor for a late-night party, while friends scooped up Coolhaus Ice Cream and Pies 'n' Thighs signature pies and donuts. As the clock struck midnight, all departed to the afterparty, and we turned off the lights on this gorgeous venue. But for the bride and groom, their journey was just getting started!