As I began meeting with Abigail + Bruce, I immediately fell in love with their story. They are so giddy and in love, which made the planning so much sweeter. Their wedding day was glamorous and vintage, with that 1960s twist. It’s simply so timeless.

Abigail and Bruce chose to host their Welcome Dinner at Barbetta Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan. The building has rich history and was such a beautiful space to celebrate the bride and groom. I always feel honored when I’m asked to be a part of the rehearsal and the welcome dinner, because I’m able to be immersed in the emotions, anticipation, and stories told by all of the couple’s loved ones before the big day! It was a beautiful New York evening filled with such deep love.

On the chilly morning of February 24th, Abigail and Bruce began getting ready in separate spaces. Abigail, her sisters, close friends, and Mom wandered the gorgeous halls of Glen Cove Mansion after those final hair and makeup touch-ups. It was very special experiencing the love Abigail has in her life through the laughs, hugs, and moments shared that morning. After she put on her dream dress, Abigail’s Mom gathered her bouquet to give to her, and it was wrapped in ribbon from her late Grandmother’s wedding dress. Even though she couldn’t be there, it was such a sweet reminder that she was there in spirit. Bruce and his guys were spending the afternoon at the Heritage Club in Bethpage. Because Abigail and Bruce chose to see each other for the first time as she’s walking down the aisle, there were many feelings of anticipation before the ceremony. I just knew they simply could not wait to see each other.

And then it was time. The string quartet played “Jesu, Son of Man’s Desires,” the guests were beginning to stand for the bride, and she came floating down the aisle toward her soon-to-be husband. Bruce was floored. I knew he had never felt the way he did in that moment. They shared vows, lit a unity candle symbolizing joining together as one, and there was not a dry eye in the house. It was apparent through each face in the room that Abigail and Bruce are truly meant for each other. As they said “I do” and kissed, the smiles were bigger than ever.

Between the ceremony and party, I was able to witness one of the most intimate moments I’ve ever been part of as a wedding photographer. Abigail and Bruce decided to have a choreographed first dance and wanted to do a final practice privately before going into the reception space. It was the most effortless, cinematic dance I’d ever seen. The way they flowed together as they danced around the room was truly a masterpiece.

And then, the party BEGAN! There was dancing, a GORGEOUS cake, and time shared between family throughout the reception. I love seeing the in-between moments as I roamed the room, and some of my favorites were with the bride and groom sitting at the table with their siblings. You could really see the love they all shared in their laughter! As the evening came to a close, Abigail O’Toole became “Jackie O'” in the modern form stepping into the getaway car! It was magical: rose petals flying everywhere, goodbyes, and finally, a kiss between the bride and groom.

Photo: Abby Leigh Photography || Venue: Heritage Club at Bethpage || Floral: The Flower Pot Long Island || Hair & Makeup: Beauty Mark Spa &. Bridal Studio || Dress: Pnina Tornai for Kleinfeld Bridal