Photography: @jredziniak
Venue: @thelarkfield
Makeup: @beautybyalondra
Dress: @verasbridal_
Video: @livepicturestudios @jamesliufilms
DJ: Pharaoh's Entertainment by George Moussa
Florals: Dee's Florist
Simona and David’s wedding was a beautiful blend of tradition, culture, and modern celebration at the renowned Larkfield in East Northport, Long Island, NY.
The day began with Simona’s bridal preparations at her family home, surrounded by her bridesmaids and parents. I captured the intricate details of her day, including her jewelry, rings, shoes, and signature Chloe perfume, as well as other special items that set the stage for her big day.
The bride and her bridesmaids wore matching silk robes, stepping outside for fun photos where they popped a bottle of champagne and sipped mimosas to kick off the celebration. After capturing sweet moments with her parents, Simona changed into her wedding dress, and we proceeded with bridal portraits that highlighted her elegance and joy.
Meanwhile, my second photographer was at the Marriott Melville Hotel in Long Island, where David prepared with his groomsmen. The hotel’s grand lobby provided an ideal setting for portraits with ample lighting and space. David, looking sharp and confident, was ready for the day’s big moments.
The couple’s ceremony took place at St. Abraam Coptic Orthodox Church in Woodbury, Long Island, a breathtaking space with towering ceilings, a beautiful altar, and red-carpeted floors. The Egyptian Coptic Orthodox wedding began with the clergy walking in, carrying a large cross, followed by the groom, parents, and bridal party. Guests stood as Simona was escorted down the aisle by her father, with the crowd expressing their joy through the traditional “zaghrouta,” a high-pitched ululation common in Egyptian celebrations.
In an Egyptian Coptic Orthodox wedding, the couple wears ceremonial capes as part of their union, symbolizing their new roles as husband and wife. The priests place crowns on the couple’s heads, signifying their unity and the sacred bond of marriage. The service includes anointing with holy oils and the exchange of rings, a moment that binds them under the blessings of the church. Another unique aspect is that both the couple and their parents sign the marriage certificate, underscoring the support and involvement of the family in their union.
After the ceremony, I captured family photos on the altar at St. Abraam Coptic Orthodox Church before Simona and David’s grand exit, where guests celebrated by blowing bubbles as the newlyweds walked out. One of my favorite shots from the day was a silhouette photo of the couple as they exited the church, framed by the light from behind.
A delightful surprise awaited outside St. Abraam Coptic Orthodox Church: a blue donut truck provided by Glazed and Confused, where the couple and guests enjoyed sweet treats and photo ops before heading to Larkfield in East Northport for their reception.
Upon arriving at Larkfield in East Northport, I photographed formal family portraits, capturing a variety of combinations with parents, siblings, grandparents, and extended family. My second photographer and I split up to capture individual moments with Simona and her bridesmaids and David with his groomsmen. Once these group photos were complete, I focused on the bride and groom portraits. The lush outdoor courtyard at Larkfield provided the perfect backdrop for romantic shots, with Simona’s veil flowing gracefully in the golden, backlit sun.
Indoors, we took more couple photos in the grand ballroom at Larkfield, posing them by the sweetheart table and the guest tables adorned with stunning centerpieces. Their DJ added a touch of magic with indoor sparklers, creating a dazzling effect as Simona and David shared a dip and a kiss.
As the reception commenced, guests entered with excitement, led by the parents and bridal party who made grand entrances using props and dancing to high-energy music. The entertainers playing drums heightened the celebratory atmosphere, filling the dance floor with energy as nearly every guest joined in the fun.
Simona and David’s first dance was a breathtaking moment, complete with sparklers lighting up the room. Parent dances followed, filled with emotion as Simona shared a tender dance with her father, and David with his mother. Following tradition, speeches were given, and the evening continued with hours of dancing and feasting.
The night concluded with the cake cutting and a final night portrait outside the venue. Simona and David’s Egyptian wedding at Larkfield in East Northport was an unforgettable celebration filled with tradition, joy, and love.
