Estate at Florentine Gardens Wedding Photographer
Alexa and James got married at the Estate at Florentine Gardens in River Vale, New Jersey. As their Estate at Florentine Gardens wedding photographer, I had the best time capturing their day! These two had the sweetest families, the most fun bridal party, and a celebration that was full of love and laughter. The rain held off just long enough for portraits, and the dance floor was packed all night. Scroll on for a look at their beautiful March wedding!
The Details
Firstly, the details. Alexa’s invitation suite by Plum Paperie featured elegant script with a classic white and gold design. I loved the AJ monogram that carried through the day. Her bouquet by A Bouquet of Love Florist was stunning. White roses, ranunculus, and lush greenery with trailing ribbons. She also had a photo charm tucked into her bouquet, a sweet way to carry her loved ones with her down the aisle.
Getting Ready
Florentine Gardens is always such a dream to photograph in. Natural light poured through the windows as Alexa got ready with her sisters and bridesmaids. They all wore matching satin robes, and the energy was so joyful. Hair for the bridesmaids was done by Studio By A and Alexa’s bridal hair was styled by Julia Mannino Hair. Makeup for everyone was done by Studio By A, and they all looked absolutely flawless.
Meanwhile, James got ready with his groomsmen. The guys looked sharp in classic black tuxedos with white rose boutonnieres. We loved capturing James adjusting his cufflinks and the candid moments with his groomsmen before they headed to the church.
The Ceremony
Alexa and James chose not to have a first look, so the ceremony at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Ridgewood, New Jersey was the first time James saw his bride. The church was absolutely beautiful with its stained glass windows and warm wood interior. Watching Alexa walk down the aisle on her father’s arm was such an emotional moment. The flower girl and ring bearer were adorable, and there were so many happy tears from family in the pews. After the ceremony, we captured the newlyweds with their families as well as on the church steps with Alexa’s veil blowing in the breeze.
Bride & Groom Portraits
After the ceremony, we headed back to Florentine Gardens for portraits. It was important to Alexa and James that they attend cocktail hour with their guests, so we worked efficiently to capture everything before joining the party. The gardens at Florentine Gardens are so beautiful in early spring. We grabbed portraits at the white gazebo, along the brick pathways, and in back of the mansion. Alexa’s gown had the most gorgeous train that photographed so well on the stone paths. We finished up just in time before the rain started, which made those outdoor shots feel even more special.
About the Estate at Florentine Gardens
The Estate at Florentine Gardens is one of the most beautiful wedding venues in New Jersey. Located in River Vale, this four-acre property features stunning rose gardens, a grand white ballroom, and classic European-inspired architecture.
What makes Florentine Gardens special:
- Elegant bridal suite with beautiful natural light
- Rose garden that peaks in summer months
- Grand Ballroom with 25-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows
- Crystal chandeliers and romantic atmosphere
- Outdoor gazebo ceremony space surrounded by gardens
- Indoor ceremony option for any weather
- Brick pathways that make every walking shot look incredible
- In-house catering and full bar
Bridal Party
Alexa’s bridal party was such a fun group. Her sisters served as maids of honor and wore champagne Jenny Yoo gowns, while the bridesmaids wore sage Jenny Yoo gowns. I loved this color combination. It felt so elegant and perfect for a spring wedding. Each girl carried a white and green bouquet designed by A Bouquet of Love Florist. The groomsmen looked classic in their black tuxedos. It was a big group, but they were all wonderful. Alexa and James are the sweetest and it’s no wonder they have so many friends.
Family Portraits
One of my favorite parts of any wedding day is family photos. Alexa and James came from big, loving families and you could feel that warmth throughout the entire day.
The Reception
Finally, the reception. The Grand Ballroom at Florentine Gardens looked incredible. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead and the tables were set with tall white and green centerpieces. The AJ monogram appeared throughout the reception on custom napkins, signage, and the seating chart. A Bouquet of Love Florist created a stunning white floral installation that framed the sweetheart table and the entrance to the ballroom.
The bridesmaids made a fun entrance with signs, and the energy was high from the start. Eclipse Events kept the party going all night long. The wedding cake by Palermo’s Bakery was a beautiful tiered design with gold ribbon detail.
One of the most touching moments of the night came after the cake cutting. Alexa did a bouquet dedication to her mom, and there was not a dry eye in the room. It was such a meaningful way to honor her and I was so glad to capture it.
Congratulations Alexa & James
This was such a special day to be part of. Alexa and James, thank you for having me. Your families are wonderful, your love is so genuine, and it was an honor to capture your wedding day. Wishing you so much happiness together!
If you’re planning a wedding at the Estate at Florentine Gardens or looking for a River Vale NJ wedding photographer, I’d love to hear from you. Contact me here to get started.
Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Estate at Florentine Gardens
Wedding Coordinator: Lauren LaSorsa Events
Photography: Karina Mekel Photography
Content Creator: Wedding BTS by Julie
Videographer & DJ: Eclipse Events
Florist: A Bouquet of Love Florist
Hair (Bride): Julia Mannino Hair
Makeup: Studio By A
Stationery: Plum Paperie
Bridesmaids Dresses: Jenny Yoo
Cake: Palermo’s Bakery
Planning a wedding at Florentine Gardens? Check out my Estate at Florentine Gardens Wedding Photographer Guide!
See more wedding photos from Estate at Florentine Gardens Wedding | Kasey & Tim!
