I always love working with Maria and her amazing network of family and friends. Recently, I had the opportunity to meet her partner, Pete and I knew that I had to photograph the two of them soon!

After several schedule conflicts, I bumped into the couple again at Maria's BFF's wedding. (You can view that wedding Here.) We vowed to collaborate sooner than later and I was thrilled to find out that Maria was interested in a seasonal winter session. 

The weather in NEPA has been so unpredictable, but we finally found snow in the forecast during the first week of January. I had no idea that the expected snow was part of the "Bomb Cyclone" headed up the east coast!

Despite the predicted wind chill, we decided to get together on what was slated to be the warmest day in over two weeks. Snow in the AM led to a balmy 25 degrees in the afternoon with intermittent flurries; we decided that this was our best bet for winter wonderland photos!

My inspiration for the shoot was the 2018 Pantone color of the year, Ultra Violet. I have been loving the brilliant color being introduced back into wedding palettes and I can't think of a better winter combo than natural evergreen and cool purple tones. I created Maria's signature bouquet utilizing leftover greens from my personal holiday displays along with violet and fuschia floral tones from the market. The natural purples were enhanced by found ribbons to match the scheme. Floral design is a passion of mine and I was thrilled to showcase a Nina Lily Florals within this shoot.

Maria wore a beautiful seasonal look featuring a modern organza ballgown with a gauzy illusion neckline by David's Bridal. Her accessories consisted of ultra violet glass drop earrings in gold and heirloom ladies gloves by Harrods of London. To finish Maria's bridal look, she donned a gorgeous vintage Jacques Ferber, Philadelphia fur wrap. Pete complimented the bridal theme with his own suit in purple blue and floral tie in ultra violet.

We began photographing near Allentown's Rose Garden. Huge evergreens broke the wind for us prior to heading out into the park. The couple were total rockstars! Just when we couldn't stand the wind and temps and longer, snow began falling. We couldn't resist working through the imagery that we'd hoped to capture. Despite the cold, Maria & Pete expressed so much trust and love. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with them and am already brainstorming a spring session!

Enjoy!

Venue | Allentown Rose Garden 

Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist | Maria Petrone

Florals | Nina Lily Florals

Bridal Gown | Organza Ballgown for David's Bridal

Vintage Fur | Jacques Ferber