Lauren and Andrew’s love story began years ago when they were growing up. They knew each other through mutual friends but went to different Connecticut high schools. They never really spoke, but just knew who the other was. As their lives changed and they became working adults, Lauren had been looking to move to the West Coast. Although she was unsuccessful at finding a job out there, Lauren ended up finding something at a local shipping company and by chance she ran into Andrew in the hallway of the building. She was about to find out that he worked right next door to her. Andrew had just moved back to the states after living in Switzerland for a year and a half. He asked her out on a date and it soon became very clear why she was not meant to live on the West Coast at this time in her life. Her heart and her future would be right here in CT all along.
Lauren and Andrew both enjoy spending their summers at the beach. That’s why the Stamford Yacht Club worked perfectly for them, with their beautiful grounds and water views for their wedding guests to enjoy. Lauren used a color palette of fushia (or bright pink) with silver accents. For Lauren, I knew pink held a special place in her heart, as she had mentioned to me (when we met months ago) that she was a breast cancer survivor. She is young and beautiful, and I seriously could not believe that she had been through this at such a young age. But as we all know, cancer does not discriminate. What struck me the most was her story of how she remained strong for Andrew, and how he remained by her side through every stage of this experience. That is love folks, and the kind that brings me to tears. So it was no surprise that I was a crying fool during the speeches at their reception (like everyone else there too). Luckily, I can usually hide behind my lens, but at some point you need to wipe the tears and breathe. Andrew’s words touched me too, and he reminded me of one of the many reasons why I do this work… because life is too short and because I love life and I am passionate about all kinds of love. Every day we are given a gift to be here and to use our talents, and to love with all of our hearts. And so my friends, I share my gift with you and hope you will treasure these moments in time because they are so very precious and beautiful. Here’s a look at their wedding day memories in the slideshow below.
Lauren and Andrew are not defined by her battle with cancer. They ARE defined by their strength, love and commitment to each other. I hope the photos and slideshow are proof of that and will bring many smiles to all who know them!
Many thanks to the incredible pro’s who helped bring it all together for these two. Beauty by Tina Soleng and hairstyling by Missy West (friends of the bride), the phenomenal dress by Pronovias, the floral creations of Neilson’s Florist, the ceremony at St John’s Church in Darien and reception location at the Stamford Yacht Club, music by Jim Nuzzo from Dance to the Music Entertainment, and the beautiful and classic wedding cake by Black Forest Pastry Shop. And a big shout out to the always awesome Athena Blude for being my 2nd photographer on this event, and if you have more time please take a peek at the video made by DMO Films who provided the cinematography for Lauren and Andrew. Very few people share their after the wedding edit with us, but these guys do and I love this style, and Matt and Mo were so great to work with!!
Lauren and Andrew, thank you for reminding us all what truly matters in life, and for allowing me this opportunity to work with you! You will hold a special place in my heart and continue to inspire me, and I feel so honored to have witnessed your strength, love and commitment. xoxo
