Andrea and Stephen married in Canandaigua

Last Saturday I had the great pleasure and wonderful experience of photographing the wedding of Andrea Sorensen and Stephen Graves in Canandaigua, New York. Andrea had scheduled late October because of her love for the fall season and New York did not disappoint, other than some typically sketchy weather, which, in the long run, cooperated amazingly well. I met Andrea and Kate, her Maid of Honor, at Icon Salon and Spa on Main Street in Canandaigua at 9 AM.

The girls were dragging a bit from the rehearsal dinner party festivities, but in great spirits and excited about the day ahead. Other bridal party members arrived a little later with food and drink to begin the day of celebration. After hair and makeup, I followed Andrea and Kate back to Bristol Harbour on Canadaigua Lake for the final preparation before the limo ride back to the church.

I was delighted by the love and caring that obviously exists between these two girls as Kate played the Maid of Honor role with such dedication. Both of these beautiful young ladies made me feel so welcome and appreciated, and made my job so easy. We returned to Canadaigua for the ceremony at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Main Street, a beautiful sanctuary that hosts about two hundred weddings a year. The groomsmen were busy filling the church and making preparations while the bridal party sneaked into the basement waiting room.

A very large wedding party was made up of several bridesmaids, two best men and several groomsmen, and two junior members. Themes of red, black, and white made for a beautiful color combination. Well done, guys! The ceremony was lovely and very personal.

After formal family groups at the church, the wedding party drove a few blocks to Sonnenberg Gardens for formal shots of the bride and groom and their accompanying entourage. I had met Andrea and Stephen and bridesmaid, Lauren there the previous weekend to pick out suitable spots for photography. Sonnenberg is a state owned historic mansion and gardens in Canandaigua where weddings and wedding photos are a regular occurance. Gorgeous backdrops of flowers all season and beautiful fall color in October make for fabulous settings. A staff member accompanied us the entire time making sure we were taken care of and keeping the brides dress off the damp ground from the early morning rain. Can’t say enough about what a great place Sonnenberg is.

We all returned to Bristol Harbour for the reception. Good friends and family members danced until the late night hours to a great selection of music supplied by their DJ from Turner Music in Rochester.

One thing that can always be counted on at wedding receptions is at least one beautiful baby, and this one was no exception. Great toasts, the shoe game, and outstanding performances on the dance floor made the party one to always remember.

Thanks very much to Andrea and Stephen, Kate, to Chuck and Martha, and everyone who made my work so enjoyable. I wish all of you joy and happiness.

Photos Copyright © George Cannon – Images