Destiny + Sam's Backyard Wedding in Oswego, NY
The absolute best thing to come out of covid-era weddings has been the resurging popularity of the backyard wedding. Destiny and Sam opted for an ultra-personalized outdoor wedding ceremony on Sam’s parents’ property in Oswego, NY. It was utter perfection from the first look to the first dance and beyond.
I had such a wonderful time getting to know Destiny and Sam during their engagement session last year, and I was so excited to witness the continuation of their love story as they became husband and wife. When I arrived for the day, Destiny and her bridesmaids were at Camp Foundations getting ready, while Sam and his groomsmen got dressed at their house. Destiny and her dad shared a sweet first look, then everyone hopped in their cars and headed to McIntyres Bluff for the wedding first look.
As an Oswego native, I’ve been coming to the bluffs for years, so I already knew what a stunning location it was, but having the honor of photographing a bride and groom there really elevated the already-gorgeous scenery. Destiny and Sam saw each other for the first time with Lake Ontario as their backdrop. The gray skies and sandy bluff made it feel like they were on top of the world. Once the excitement had settled, we grabbed some shots of the entire wedding party and a few more shots of the happy couple as the sun started to peek out. We headed out right as an intimate wedding was about the start nearby. What a sweet location for some special “I Do”s.
The outdoor wedding ceremony took place by the pond, under an arbor that Sam had built by hand. The service was officiated by their pastor, Danny Fierro, and was the most perfect declaration of their love, including hand-picked readings from the Bible and communion for Destiny and Sam. My favorite part had to be after the first kiss when the newlyweds and their wedding party ran up the aisle as confetti rained down from enthusiastic guests.
The backyard wedding reception was well-thought-out with oodles of personal details. There was even a custom photo wall and an Instax camera for guests to leave photos in their guest book. Guests watched on as Destiny and Sam shared a blissful first dance, then we snuck off for a few more photos around the property. There were so many amazing locations and backdrops to choose from, these forest wedding photos ended up being some of my favorite.
Once dinner was over, there were toasts, parent dances, and cake cutting. We stuck around for a little bit of open dancing before packing it up for the night. It was truly an honor to capture Destiny and Sam’s special day, and I wish them a lifetime together filled with laughter and memories.
Catering: Ole Ole (Lenny Aules)
Officiant: Danny Fierro
Florals: Travis Floral Shop
Dress: New York Bride & Co
Rentals: Upstate Party Rentals
Cake: Kelly Fitzsimmons
