Hillary and Sumirko were married the first weekend in January at the Willowdale Estate. After a winter storm blew through with many inches of snow and frigid temperatures, their day dawned bright and felt nearly balmy at 30-something degrees. A wedding day passes so quickly, and no sooner had they arrived and finished penning their letters to each other (to be opened on a future anniversary) than it was time to dress. I love the anticipation and excitement when the dress finally goes on, and this occasion was particularly memorable, when Hillary was talking and her friend interrupted saying something along the lines of “I’m sorry – I can’t concentrate – you’re just so beautiful!”
From there, Hillary headed downstairs to see Sumirko. Hillary’s parents got to see the big reveal too, and then gave her a cameo pin that was passed down through the generations in her family. There was some question as to who should have the honor of pinning it on. It was decided Hillary’s father should do it, because Sumirko would pin it on their daughter on her wedding day. Aren’t family traditions wonderful? Their families were so involved throughout the day – from their nieces and nephew (and the children of friends) making up their wedding party, to their brother-in-law officiating the ceremony, a special song performed by Sumirko’s mother during the reception, and then guests of all ages packing the dance floor.
If you like what you see, and are interested in having me photograph your Willowdale Estate wedding, please get in touch!
