inside the lens

The 11th of June was significant for two reasons: the first and probably most obvious is that it was day one of the highly anticipated 2010 FIFA World Cup; the second and likely not-so-known reason is that it was the day that I photographed my first wedding [with the help of my trusty side-kick, Gabriella Malliaris].

How did I meet the bride and groom?  Well, here’s the funny thing—I never had prior to the rehearsal dinner.  I had spoken with Michael many times prior to the event but even walking in The Buffalo Brew Pub, I was unsure of what he looked like.

The whole thing happened as a matter of happenstance really.  Michael and Karen had decided to have their larger ceremony in Buffalo since his entire family is from the area.  Therefore, he was looking for a photographer here instead of in Los Angeles where they currently live.  My name reached him via my sister-in-law via her employer who happens to be Michael’s cousin [just one of ninety-nine, as rumor has it].

Either way, it worked out.  And, I’m glad that it did.

The day was marked by a beautiful outdoor ceremony—where the story of how the couples met was narrated by the Justice of the Peace, vows exchanged, tears shed and too many photographs to count taken.

The reception gave me a chance to get to know the bride and groom along with their families a little better; it turns out that most of the attendees were Michael’s cousins or siblings of his parents.  As to say, coming from someone with a big family of her own, I felt right at home.

Not to mention that their families are extremely talented folk—the favors at the wedding were chocolate bars that were made by Michael’s mom.  And, not to be outdone, Karen’s dad made necklaces for myself and Gabe.  Turns out that Michael and Karen are both learning their parent’s crafts and will, hopefully, keep the tradition alive once they have long since given it up.

I wish the newly titled Mr. & Mrs. Michael Kinsley all the happiness that a lifetime will allow; come back and visit us in Buffalo anytime.
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Tags: bride, buffalo, family, groom, kinsley, los angeles, malliaris photography, photographer, sarah bishop photography, wedding, world cup