sarah tew photography

Kaitlin & Steve wanted a unique wedding– in short, they wanted to do it their own way and not be bothered by tradition or expectations.  They were delighted to book the Housing Works Bookstore in SOHO for their May wedding, and planned a sweet and personal ceremony that would be officiated by Steve’s friend Jules, who honored them later with a toast he delivered in multiple languages so that Steve’s family from abroad would be able to more easily understand. I met them a few hours beforehand and we did a round of portraits up by NYU where they met in college, and in Washington Square Park, which was meaningful to them.  We just happened to come across the piano player (only in New York will you find someone with the gumption to get his baby grand out into Washington Square Park just to play for tips) and I couldn’t resist having them practice their first dance for a few shots as he played.  We hopped in a cab and headed back down to Housing Works Bookstore where we shot all the family pictures before guests arrived.  The schedule of the evening was unique too– Kaitlin changed into a pretty blue dress and guests arrived in time for a pre-ceremony cocktail hour, which was followed by the ceremony, and a set of amazing toasts– the most noteworthy of which included an original song written and performed by the Groom’s father– how sweet!  How else was this wedding unique?  Well not only did they write their own vows (which is common these days)– but they each wrote the vows that their partner would make to them.  Pretty cool approach if you ask me!  Though no doubt this could be tricky to negotiate, they seemed to come up with some really smart and solid promises.  Their friend King Jang sang and played guitar for them at one point during the ceremony, and it was especially moving to see him sound so amazing after hearing that he’d been nervous to perform!  I was delighted to be a part of this special couple’s day.  Congratulations, Kaitlin & Steve!

Credits:  Rings from Tiffany, Bride’s hair by Michelina Albero, Flowers by Tony Montano, Catering at Housing Works Bookstore by The Works Catering, Event Design by Amanda O’Callaghan, DJ’ing by Jon Black of Scratch Weddings, and favors from Godiva.