LOVE ON THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE : KELLI + BRIAN

The sun was shining and the city was abuzz with visitors fitting in one last vacation before the end of summer.  Kelli was busy showing Brian around New York and she had saved one of her favorite spots for last, the Brooklyn Bridge.  Making their way up the old wooden walking path, they marveled at the beauty of many of New York’s historic icons. 

As they walked towards the middle of the bridge, they were just able to make out the Statue of Liberty.  Kelli ran to the edge, excitedly pointing out the famous icon of freedom to Brian.  Directly in front of them was Brooklyn, the most populous of New York City’s five boroughs.  Brooklyn is known for its distinct culture, independent art scene, and unique architectural heritage. Behind them lay the financial district and Pier 17, one of my favorite spots in the entire city. 

Later that evening, Kelli and Brian returned to the pier for a romantic dinner on the water.  As the sun went down, the bright lights of the Brooklyn Bridge shimmered against the Hudson River.  Kelli and Brian smiled at each other, enjoying the simple pleasure of a day spent together.

I am in love with these fun pictures of Kelli and Brian on the Brooklyn Bridge!  I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

We started off at one of the benches scattered along the walking path.  The evening light was loving Kelli and Brian!

Kelli is the type of girl who can make anyone laugh!  People are always drawn to her vivacious personality.

With the right time of the day and the right angle, it was possible to make it look like Kelli and Brian were the only people on the bridge.  

Mekina and I picked up these balloons specifically for the shoot.  I love the way the bright yellow pops against the blue sky. 

I love this angle my second shooter Mekina captured.  Kelli, you look so genuinely happy!

I will end with this shot of Kelli and Brian looking very much in love.  To see more of this fun couple, check out HAMPTON HAPPINESS.   Happy Sunday!

CITY LOVE : SHAKE SHACK

This week I am going to take you to my favorite burger joint in the city, Shake Shack!  Nothing draws me in faster than a place where I can enjoy a meal and delicious dessert, all in one spot! 

I found Shake Shack when I was picking up tickets for Rain on Broadway.  I was a little early so I decided to grab dinner before the show.  I am always looking for new places to try and tonight, I wanted to discover somewhere GOOD.  Discover…like I was going to be the first person to find it.  As I made my way up 8^th avenue, a bright flashing sign and a line that stretched 10 feet out the door caught my eye.  I stuck my head inside to discover a parade of cheeseburgers, Chicago style hotdogs and creamy milkshakes in front of me.  YUUUUMMY!  I waited in line and ordered a shack burger and fries.  For dessert, I decided on a chocolate concrete (basically custard blended with your favorite toppings) with marshmallow cream and chocolate truffle cookie dough.  Talk about heaven in your mouth!  I finished off my meal and headed off to Rain, completely satisfied.    

The Shake Shack in the theatre district is always packed!

The shack burger and fries...my favorite.

The resurfaced tables were once part of a bowling lane!

My favorite Shake Shack is actually located in Madison Square Park.

You might recognize this location from the movie "Something Borrowed".

Of course, Shake Shack is always better when it is enjoyed with friends.  As much as we try and stay away, I know my second shooter Mekina and I will enjoy many more meals from Shake Shack in the future.


HAVE A FABULOUS FRIDAY! 

CENTRAL PARK NYC ENGAGEMENT : ALI + NATHAN

The taxi raced past the stores on 5^th avenue, a blur of Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton barely visible through the window.   As it came to a stop on 60^th  street and 5^th avenue, Ali and Nathan slipped off of the busy city streets and into Central Park. 

It was a beautiful day for a walk.  The sun was slipping in and out from behind the clouds and a slight breeze could be felt on that warm day in July.  Holding hands, Ali and Nathan made their way through “the mall” and to the Boathouse.  As they climbed into a rowboat, they smiled at each other as they took in the stillness of the lake. The busy streets were forgotten.    

I am very excited to present the third and final installment of Ali and Nathan’s engagement session, Central Park!  The white outfits the couple chose to wear really give these photos a fresh look that I absolutely love!  Congratulations again Ali and Nathan, you two make a beautiful pair.  

We started off at Gapstow Bridge in the south end of Central Park.  I can't imagine a more beautiful background. It looks like Ali and Nathan stepped right into a painting!

I love it when my couples are a little adventurous!  Ali and Nathan climbed up on the bridge to get this amazing shot.

Nathan swooped up his future bride and carried her all the way down "the mall".  Running through the center of Central Park, "the mall" was originally designed to accommodate carriages passing through on their way to Bethesda Terrace.

Two lives, two hearts joined together in friendship, united forever in love.

Ali, you are so stunning, really.

This is one of my favorites.  Ali, you look so elegant and Nathan, you look so happy to be with her.

I really like the way the engagement ring shines against the wood on the park bench.

Ali and Nathan stopped for a mini picnic in Central Park.  I can't think of a better way to cool off than with a couple of ice cream cones!

Ali and Nathan are one of those couples you can just tell will love and care for each other for the rest of their lives.

I love this angle captured by my second shooter Mekina Saylor.   

Ali and Nathan started off their ride around the lake at the Boathouse.

I couldn't help but swoon as Ali and Nathan rowed under what is possibly New York's more romantic setting for lovers, Bow Bridge.

A special thanks to Mekina Saylor for styling Ali's hair.  I can't believe you made it look so beautiful in only three minutes!  

Nestled behind a bed of purple flowers, Ali and Nathan share a quiet moment alone, and a sweet kiss.  

Ali and Nathan, you have a way of making ordinary moments, extraordinary.  Thank for you allowing me the honor of photographing your engagement session in NYC.  I can not wait for your wedding in June!

To see more of Ali and Nathan's engagement session, feel free to view their slideshow here.

Ali + Nathan - picture slideshow